Too late to prune back peach tree? - Ask Extension
Nov 27, 2024
My peach tree is overgrown outward & upwards in some areas, semi dwarf. would like to prune a max of 4 .5-.75" branches, becaus...
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Too late to prune back peach tree? #890362
Asked November 27, 2024, 3:27 PM EST
Nov 27, 2024
My peach tree is overgrown outward & upwards in some areas, semi dwarf. would like to prune a max of 4 .5-.75" branches, because easier to see now with no leaves. Did do a 1/3 pruning earlier in the year. Can I do now with no harm or should I wait til spring?
Also leaves in fall for last 2 yrs have wilted, is that a concern?
This tree grew back after about 5 yrs, from the roots of a 35+ yr old smaller peach tree that was taken out by a neighbor's fallen tree limb, so I have no idea of the variety. Very prolific fruiting.
Oakland County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello,
You should wait until the winter to prune. Pruning this time of year puts the tree at risk for cold damage.
It’s hard to say whether the leaf wilting is a concern or not. Do you have pictures of the leaves?
Did you mean wait til after winter to avoid cold damage?
No photos of the leaves when they looked wilted in fall. It's Michigan, they've already fallen.
Sent from Gmail Mobile
No, pruning is usually done in the late winter. At this point in the season the trees are acclimating to colder temperatures. Pruning reduces the plant’s cold tolerance, so if you prune in November as temperatures are dropping you are putting the tree at greater risk. In the late winter the tree has sufficient cold tolerance and the temperatures are on the rise, making it a more appropriate time to prune.
Thank you for the information.
