In order to have long-lived, fruit-bearing trees, growers must prune and train their trees. The following are reasons to prune:
*Containing tree size. Pruning is a dwarfing process that keeps the tree size manageable for spraying and harvest. However, excessive pruning can delay fruiting and encourage excess vegetative growth.
*Controlling flowering and fruiting. It helps balance the tree's fruit load and reduce alternate-year-bearing problems.
*Repairing injury. Pruning removes broken, dead, and diseased limbs, increasing the tree's potential for survival.
*Increasing light penetration. Light promotes fruit bud initiation within the tree and improves fruit color and sugar content.
*Improving the penetration of spray materials. Properly applied sprays will help produce blemish free fruit and reduce tree insect and disease problems.
