The Allure of Autumn Pruning

Many fruit trees thrive on a good pruning in late summer and early fall, stimulating fruit production for the upcoming year and helping them transition into winter. For citric zealots, it’s almost irresistible!

Peach trees, for instance, revel in a September refreshing. A well-timed prune primes the tree for new shoots that promise an abundant crop the following season.

Apricot trees too, benefit from a trim around this time; it promotes airflow and eliminates overcrowded branches, enhancing overall health.

Apple and pear trees can also be pruned, although many experienced gardeners suggest waiting until winter.

With these trees begging for attention, the temptation to prune all fruit trees indiscriminately can be overwhelming—but hold on! Pruning one specific tree this month could be disastrous.

The One Tree You Must Protect: The Cherry Tree

If you have a cherry tree in your garden, known for its breathtaking blossoms in spring and succulent fruits by summer, you must NOT prune it in September! Why, you ask? Here are the compelling reasons:

The Dangers of September Pruning:

1. Increased Disease Risk: Pruning wounds do not heal effectively at this time of year, making the tree vulnerable to pathogens like enterprising fungi, particularly lead disease, which can wreak havoc.

2. Winter Weakness: Late pruning prompts new growth just as the tree should be winding down for winter, exposing it to frost damage.

3. Nutrient Loss: By removing leaves in the fall, the cherry tree loses essential energy reserves needed to survive winter and bloom in the spring.

4. Flower Bud Disruption: September pruning can interfere with the establishment of next year’s flower buds, drastically reducing your cherry yield.

The Best Time to Prune Your Cherry Tree

The optimal pruning timeframe for a cherry tree is shortly after the fruit harvest, typically in July or early August. During this phase, you can safely:

- Eliminate dead or diseased branches.

- Open up the center of the tree to allow more light.

- Trim excessively long branches without causing harm.

If you miss this July-August window, hold off until late winter, just before new buds begin to show.

Quick Pruning Guide for September

To simplify your decision-making, here’s a handy guide for fruit trees in September:

Trees to Prune:

- Peach

- Apricot

- Plum

- Apple tree (light pruning)

- Pear tree (light pruning)