Why the right cut is important
The right time to prune the nectarine tree is in September, right after the nectarines have been harvested. The aim of the cut is
- stimulate the growth of the nectarine tree
- ensure that sufficient air and light can penetrate the nectarine tree
- to boost the yield of fruits and
- optimize the quality, ripeness and taste of the nectarines.
also read
- The ripple sickness in the nectarine tree
- Planting a nectarine tree yourself - instructions
- Grow a nectarine tree yourself
If a nectarine tree is not cut, fruit will develop without flavor. Due to the aging of the branches, they will also break off due to the load of nectarines. For this reason, it is important to prune the nectarine tree heavily every year so that it has the chance to develop sufficiently young and, above all, viable shoots.
How is a nectarine tree pruned?
The pruning begins by removing all dead and aged branches, as well as broken twigs. The best fruits grow on the wood grown in the previous year, with the consequence that side shoots that have already borne fruit are only cut down to the replacement shoots. Strong fruit shoots with two flower buds are only slightly shortened, while weak fruit shoots are severely cut.
When pruning the nectarine tree, the following basic principle applies: If the pruning is strong, it is followed by a strong shoot in the spring, while if the pruning is weak, the shoot is comparatively weak. In this respect, the pruning has a major impact on the subsequent harvest, which is only promising if the nectarine tree is tended and pruned accordingly every year.
It all depends on the right tool
Sharp, good quality tools should be used to prune a nectarine tree. A pair of secateurs is sufficient for smaller pruning work, while larger branches are cut off with pruning shears. Thicker branches, for example in the crown area, are removed with a pruning saw or an adjustable hacksaw. If there is moss, lichen or pests laying eggs on the nectarine tree, these are brushed off with a wire brush.
Tips & Tricks
It is advisable to grow the nectarine tree as a bush tree, because the bushes give it more protection from frost and precipitation. The goal is an open crown that is continuously rejuvenated through regular care and careful cutting.
