30 
PRUNING APPLE TREES 
(1) The pruning of a two- 
year-old^apple tree from tlie 
nursery and a one-year-old 
apple tree, after one season's 
growtli in the orchard. Is the 
same. Both trees before prun- 
ing are similar to Figure 1. 
(2) This shows the tree In 
Figure 1 after pruning. 
(3) Tills shows Figure 2, 
looking down on It from above. 
Note the branches all point In 
different directions, but these 
branches are located some dis- 
tance apart along the trunk 
of the tree. 
Some pruning is necessary each win- 
ter to maintain the desired shape. Dead 
or weak branches should be removed. 
Trees are generally shaped one of two 
ways: 
First, the pyramid-shaped tree, with 
a main trunk growing up through the 
center of the tree to the top and many 
small branches growing from it, like a 
Christmas tree. This is not to be gen- 
erally recommended. 
Second, the vase-shaped tree. This 
is the shape preferred by most planters. 
It has a central trunk, 20 to 40 inches 
tall, depending on whether the medium 
or low-headed tree is preferred. 
Three to five branches are located 
along the upper 14 to 16 inches of this 
trunk. The branches are all about the 
same size and there is no central leader. 
The shape of the tree is not spoiled 
in case there is an accident to any one 
of the branches. It is easier to prune, 
spray, and gather the fruit on a vase- 
shaped tree. 
The vase-shaped tree has the great- 
est amount of bearing surface, and at 
the same time can be kept open to the 
sunlight and air. It is so superior that 
it is the only method of training we will 
describe. 
It is better to do a little pruning each 
year; otherwise it becomes necessary to 
cut out an extra amount of wood, and 
this in turn stimulates a growth of 
water-sprouts and upsets the balance of 
the tree. 
In an orchard that has been neglected 
for some time, it is often necessary to 
prune very heavily, and it takes a year 
or two to get the tree back to its normal 
balance again, where it will produce a full 
crop of fruit and make a good, vigorous 
growth without developing a lot of 
water-sprouts. 
For general directions on pruning, see 
page 23. 
