258 



PRUNING 



Trees pruned by this method are usually spreading, are easy 

 to pick, and develop good spur systems (Figs. 92 and 93). 

 Crossing limbs should be removed, and if the laterals grow 

 more than about 24 inches in length, these should be lightly 

 tipped back during the first three or four years to cause 

 branching and to prevent legginess. . 



Fig. 93. An Early Richmond sour cherry tree in Wisconsin pruned 

 according to the modified center leader system. 



Contrary to popular belief, recent experiments in Wisconsin 

 show that bearing sour cherry trees respond well to moderately 

 heavy pruning. After six or seven years' growth, care should 

 be taken to thin the tops, in order to keep the inner spurs and 

 lower fruiting wood healthy and productive. 



Branches growing toward the center of the tree should be re- 

 moved and the main limbs should be headed back lightly to 



