Pruning fruit trees

[Debbie Grant]

March is often the best time to prune fruit trees. This can be done every year to increase productivity and improve tree shape. Keep branches that are spaced well for optimal sunlight. Remove branches that are rubbing on other branches or are not well spaced to prevent disease. Fruit trees are a favorite of armored scale insects. These are easier to spot when the trees are dormant, or leafless, and can be treated with a horticultural oil before foliage emerges, on a warm March afternoon.