Fruit trees

watlingg

I have a number of small fruit trees (approx 4 ft tall) in an orchard that were planted in the last 1-3 years. They have been well watered since planting during the growing season. Some have had 2-3 apples on this last summer.
My query is on how I should generally look after them at this early stage in their lives, from the point of feeding - how and when and when to start pruning, as an apricot I have has 2 very tall branches shooting upwards? Your advice is very much appreciated. Glenys

pansyface

As there seem to be different species in your orchard, it would be too complicated to list all the actions you should be taking to deal with their different needs in this thread.

I would recommend that you hunt down a good book on fruit growing.

“Growing Fruit” by Harry Baker covers all types of fruit from stawberries and blackcurrants through top fruit and on to more unusual fruit such as apricots and figs. It is clearly written with simple drawings giving advice on what to do in each season throughout the life of the plant. It is small enough to be taken out into the garden for reading on the spot. 

Pete.8

There's some good general info from the RHS here for apples and pears.
Do make sure you have a look at the links at the bottom of the page too that refer to summer pruning if you want to keep your trees to a manageable height.

As pansy suggests above, a good book is invaluable as it explains the reasoning behind what you're doing then it all makes sense.