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When to Prune the Orchard in Southern Climates

September 17, 2011 - Posted in Uncategorized

When to Prune the Orchard in Southern Climates

Because of the propensity of most southern climes to remain warm all year and rarely frost, fruit trees can be grown nearly year-round. This is especially true of citrus trees, which are sub-tropical evergreens. For citrus trees being grown in Southern California, the usual method is to prune them between winter and spring. Usually between December and March, which are the cooler times of year. Citrus trees do not actually require much pruning, but a general thinning of dead or insect-infested branches and water sprouts is usually prudent. This helps explain it more.

For other types of fruit trees, pruning between December and February is ideal in southern climates. This is when the tree is in its slowest period of growth and has usually stopped producing fruit. Apple, pear, apricot, dwarf apricot, sweet cherry, peach, nectarine and plum trees all require annual winter pruning. Japanese plum trees especially require heavy pruning, as do peach and nectarine trees. Some of the other trees have long-lived fruit spurs that do not require much pruning. Simply thinning out dense areas to improve sunlight penetration and cutting back laterals is all these trees need. Do not trim shoots under 3 inches however.