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New growth on Apple tree

Roxy8Roxy8 Posts: 2

We have a small apple tree that was in the garden when we bought the house about 15 years ago. It has been doing well until a couple of years ago when I trimmed some of the branches as they were looking old and crossing but since I have done this it is growing new much longer shoots. Can I trim these back to a couple of buds now or is it best to wait until the leaves have dropped? I am worried that it might be putting all the energy into the new shoots and then exhaust itself! 

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  • LoganLogan Posts: 2,532
    Apple trees can be trimmed but the more you trim the more it will grow and you got to be careful about cutting fruiting buds off.
  • pansyfacepansyface Posts: 21,565

    I'd cut them back in August to, as you say, a few buds. Then keep your eye on them. If they make another dash for the skies, cut them back again in the winter. They are called water shoots and they are the tree's response to being hard pruned. If you keep on top of them they will calm down eventually.image

    Apophthegm -  a big word for a small thought.
    If you live in Derbyshire, as I do.
  • Roxy8Roxy8 Posts: 2

    Thanks for your help. I'll try trimming them and keep an eye on them as I love my little tree!

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