Apple tree pruning

ievousis

We have an apple tree, Malus Coxs Orange Pippin, that was planted 2 years ago and pretty much neglected. Some branches have been shaved off when mowing the lawn and now the tree is in one plane. The branches shooted up this summer, not sure what it was that it liked so much.

Seeking for advice how to shape it. How far down can I trim it? How can I pull some branches out in other directions?

If I was brave enough to try to graft it, can I use one of these branches? For example, if I used the left branch, where can I make the cut?

Also, should I wait till spring to mulch it, or is autumn equally good?

pansyface

First, cut a metre wide circle of grass out from around the trunk.

This will (a) avoid any further possible “shaving” and (b) allow the tree to get all the rainwater it needs without competition from the grass.

You don’t need to mulch it.

The tree will naturally grow to face the sun. If you leave it alone it will produce side shoots in that direction.

ievousis

That was quick, thank you. Will do that.

What about shortening? Would you leave it as it is?

pansyface

I would leave it as it is.