Summer Care - Cherry Tree Pruning

Have you taken a look at your now fruitless cherry tree recently and realised that it does really need some TLC? After spending so much energy producing beautiful harvests, its now time for you to give back to your cherry. Contrary to popular belief, you can prune fruit trees in summer and you should! Read on to find out how.

Summer pruning plays a crucial role in maintaining the health, shape, and productivity of your cherry trees. By following a few simple steps, you can ensure that your cherry tree thrives and produces an abundant harvest in years to come. In this guide, we'll take you through the process of summer pruning your cherry tree, including the useful benefits and necessary techniques involved.

Step 1: Choose the right time

Summer pruning should be done during the tree's active growing season, typically after the harvest period. Aim to prune your cherry tree in early summer, ideally around mid-June to mid-July when the tree has finished fruiting. Choose a dry day, without a forecast of rain overnight to give the tree time to heal - especially if you choose to not use a sealant (more on this later). This timing allows the tree to recover quickly and minimises stress.

Step 2: Gather the Required Tools

Before you begin pruning, you will need sharp pruning shears, loppers, a pruning saw (for larger branches), gloves, and we recommend safety goggles. Ensure your tools are clean and sharp - this helps to make clean cuts and prevents the spread of diseases.

Step 3: Remove Suckers

Inspect the tree and remove any suckers or water sprouts that have grown from the base or along the main branches. Suckers are vigorous shoots that grow from the rootstock, while water sprouts are vertical shoots that arise from the main branches. These growths divert energy from the tree and can lead to imbalanced growth.

Step 4: Trim Diseased or Damaged Branches

Identify any diseased, damaged, or dead branches. Prune them back to healthy wood, making a clean cut just outside the branch collar (the swollen area where the branch meets the trunk or another branch). Damage would include; snapped branches, dead brown wood, excessive sap, and discolouration in the bark. Removing diseased or damaged branches helps prevent the spread of infections and promotes tree health.

Step 5: Thin Out Excessive Growth

Cherry trees often develop dense growth, which limits sunlight penetration and air circulation, that would impact the fruit production the following year. Selectively thin out branches to improve light and airflow within the canopy. Remove small, weak, or overcrowded crossover branches, focusing on opening up the tree's centre. This practice promotes better fruit development and helps prevent fungal diseases.

Step 6: Manage Tree Height

If your cherry tree has grown taller than desired (think: can you reach to harvest?), summer pruning is an excellent time to manage its height. Identify the tallest branches and cut them back to an outward-facing bud or side branch. Make clean, slanted cuts to redirect the tree's energy and encourage lateral growth. This technique helps control the tree's size for easier maintenance and fruit harvest.

Step 7: Shape and Balance

Take time to step back periodically to assess the tree's overall shape and balance. Make additional cuts as needed to achieve the desired form. Ensure the tree maintains an open centre or vase-shaped structure (or continues to follow your desired pruning shape - click here to read our pruning shape guide), allowing sunlight to reach all parts of the tree. Avoid excessive branch crossing or crowding to promote optimal growth and fruit production.

Step 8: Post-Pruning Care

After pruning, clean up the area around the tree, removing all pruned branches and debris. Proper disposal prevents the spread of diseases or pests. Consider applying a pruning sealant or paste to large wounds if desired, as this can help minimize the risk of infection. However, some experts argue against using sealants, as trees often heal well on their own.

Last Thoughts

Summer pruning is a valuable practice for maintaining the health and productivity of cherry trees. By following this step-by-step guide, you can effectively prune your cherry tree post harvest, to promote balanced growth, improve fruit production, and overall tree vitality.

Remember - for specific advice on a tree to tree basis, consult your local gardening resources or seek advice from arborists familiar with your specific cherry tree variety for tailored guidance and best results.

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