Wondering when to prune potted fruit trees? Winter dormancy is a good time to prune many plants and shrubs, including potted fruit trees, especially deciduous trees that drop their leaves.
This has several reasons. The first is that you can see the structure of the tree so you can shape it better. Other reasons include disease prevention, air circulation and ultimately better crop yields.
It's important to know how to prune plants whether you're growing food or flowers. Still, it can be daunting if you've never pruned a fruit tree before. We asked gardening experts for advice so you can prune them with peace of mind.
When should fruit trees in pots be pruned?
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There are a number of fruit trees you can grow in pots, and the timing and pruning technique varies depending on the species, growth habit, and region in which they grow. However, late winter, during the dormant period, is a good time to prune various types of fruit trees, from pome fruits such as apples, quinces and pears to citrus fruits.
“Prune potted fruit trees in late winter or early spring when they are dormant and before new growth begins,” says Justin Hancock, horticulturist at Costa Farms. “Citrus trees can be lightly pruned throughout the year to maintain their shape and remove damaged branches. Always avoid pruning in extreme heat or cold to avoid stressing the tree.”
Christy Wilhelmi, author, Grow your own mini orchard informs us that “most of the heavy, detailed pruning occurs in the winter when fruit trees are dormant. However, pruning plays a role in the summer after the tree has finished fruiting.”
“The best time to prune citrus is after the tree bears fruit but before it begins to bloom again,” says Christy. “Citrus fruits are fairly forgiving if you limit yourself to removing dead, diseased and disordered branches.”
“Citrus fruits are popular potted plants because they can be brought indoors during the winter months,” says Tamara Hogan, plant expert at Fast-Growing Trees. “Lemons and tangerines are some of my favorites that I recommend for growing indoors and outdoors.
“Because most potted plants do not have a traditional dormancy period like outdoor fruit trees would, you need to be aware of their active growing season. It is best to prune the plant when it is not in an active growth phase to reduce a burst of unwanted reactive branches.
Why You Should Prune Fruit Trees in Pots
(Image credit: Getty Images / Grazziela Bursuc)
Although most fruit trees you can grow in pots are dwarf or smaller varieties, they still require pruning to shape them and remove dead or diseased branches.
“Pruning keeps potted fruit trees healthy, productive and visually appealing,” says Justin Hancock. “Removing dead, diseased or damaged branches improves air circulation and light penetration reduces the risk of disease.”
“Pruning also promotes the growth of strong branches that can better support the fruit. In addition, pruning helps maintain an attractive and balanced shape and improves the structure and aesthetics of the tree.”
Tamara adds that even dwarf or semi-dwarf varieties grafted onto dwarf rootstocks can grow at a rate that may not be helpful to the plant. “To minimize legginess and achieve a denser canopy, management pruning will help encourage more lateral growth throughout the plant,” says Tamara.
“However, for potted citrus brought indoors, it is best to do some of the pruning in the summer or fall before flowering and the major winter growing season.”
FAQs
Fruit trees in pots are significantly smaller than those grown outdoors, but can still have strong branches. So you need clean, sharp tools to prune them.
Kevin Espiritu, author, Epic homestead has this to say. “If you could only choose one type of pruner, get a good pair of bypass pruners. A sharp pair can cleanly cut branches 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter or less. The mechanism of bypass secateurs cuts through the plant material and does not crush it.
We recommend these Fiskars Bypass Pruners from Amazon and these Nevlers Bypass Garden Shear Hand Pruners from Target.
How often should you prune potted fruit trees?
“Prune potted fruit trees at least once a year during their dormant season,” says Justin Hancock. “Light pruning can also be carried out throughout the year to remove dead or crossing branches and maintain shape. Regular inspections help ensure timely care without over-pruning, which can stunt growth.”
When pruning your fruit trees, it is crucial to have the right pruning tools. Here are a few highly rated tools that you should purchase as soon as possible:
• Gonicc 8″ Professional Sharp Bypass Pruner. Number one bestseller on Amazon with over 12,000 reviews.
• Fiskars Bypass Pruner from Walmart, price $11.97. It has a rating of over 100 on the retail site.
• Home & Garden ClassicPRO 8.5″ Professional Premium Titanium Bypass Pruner from Amazon – WITH OVER 4,000 reviews.