Dwarf Fruit Tree Continuing Care

“super” dwarf (EMLA27 rootstock) fruit Trees

Little to no pruning is needed on these precocious little apple trees.

As needed, use small branch spreaders to create good crotch angles and branch the direction to shape the tree’s growth in the first few years.  As trees mature, lightly prune excess growth to maintain a healthy, open canopy.

These super dwarf trees will begin to bear at a very young age.  Though it is hard to do, snip all fruit off the tree the first year after blooms have set.  The tree will benefit from a year’s growth without a fruit load. 

These small trees are overachievers and must have their overabundance of fruit thinned when they are the size of peas.

Any suckers that grow below the graft union should be removed.

DWARF (BUD 9, PAJAM 2, GENEVA 210 ETC ROOTSTOCKS) FRUIT TREES

Trees are well pruned when you buy from the nursery, either in an espalier or open canopy form. Simply maintained trees by removing dead, diseased and disoriented growth.

We prune year round. Light summer pruning is done regularly, as needed, to guide growth. Dormant season pruning is reserved for large branches and major shaping of tree structure.

winter care for fruit trees

Please remember winter care is important for successful fruiting.  Don’t forget to water and feed your fruit trees.  Low sprinklers, which cover the extensive root zone out to the drip line of branches, are still the preferred way for thorough watering.  Another effective method is to use drip tape with 12” to 18” spaced emitters around the tree gradually spiraling from the trunk to just beyond the width of the widest branches (the drip line) of the tree. 

A deep mulch such as organic hay or straw spread out to the drip line is extremely beneficial, laid over your high silicon formula Fall fertilizer.

Plan for the protection of your trees whether they are planted in the ground or in large containers.  If you have little space, consider espaliering trees against a wall or fence which will protect against the elements. 

Protect trees from animals

Protect your trees from dogs, cats, rabbits, mice, deer and other animals by using appropriate tree shelters, cages and trunk protection.  Deer, rabbits and mice love to eat fruit wood, so DO plan accordingly when selecting and preparing your site.  The better you care for your trees, the better your fruit will be.