Pruning apple tree - Ask Extension
I have a new espaliered Apple tree.
Everything says to cut above the basil cluster. What does the basil cluster look like?
How many buds above ...
Knowledgebase
Pruning apple tree #851305
Asked September 26, 2023, 2:53 PM EDT
I have a new espaliered Apple tree.
Everything says to cut above the basil cluster. What does the basil cluster look like?
How many buds above the cluster do I prune?
I have a central branch and 6 lateral branches.
Each lateral branch is a different Apple variety.
So each lateral has growth. How far back do I cut a branch?
Washington County Oregon
Expert Response
A basal cluster is a group of two to four leaves growing closely together at the base of the current season's growth.
I think this video from Tillamook Master Gardener Volunteers really shows what to do. The tree has multiple types grafted on it, as yours does. She leaves three leaf buds above the fruiting spur.
OSU Extension has an article here about care of espalier trees, and links in it for more information. This prior Q&A on espalier may also be useful to you.
I think this video from Tillamook Master Gardener Volunteers really shows what to do. The tree has multiple types grafted on it, as yours does. She leaves three leaf buds above the fruiting spur.
OSU Extension has an article here about care of espalier trees, and links in it for more information. This prior Q&A on espalier may also be useful to you.
What happens to the branch that I cut at one leaf above the cluster.
On Tuesday, September 26, 2023, 8:57 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The branch just won’t grow as much. A few branches done this way won’t hurt the tree. Three is just a recommendation thought to balance the tree needing to grow with your need to keep it shaped.
