Hi Margaret,

I'm still very much in the learning stages on pruning myself, so I won't try to give you much of an answer, but I do think it would be helpful if you could describe your plum tree a little more. "Is it large or small, what variety is it, what is the basic form it is growing in now?" are the questions that come to mind right away. That should help get you more informed answers.

But the short answer to your question is "Yes". Fruit trees need pruning to maintain size, manageability, accessibility, productivity, fruit quality, and health. The devil, of course, is in the details.

Good luck,

Mark

Thanks, Mark...I think that I need to take some of the
top off. The tree is medium size.

Well, that often happens. There are some very good orchardists on this board from your side of the continent, and if you gave them enough information I think they could respond with some good suggestions.

Good luck with your tree!

:-)M

There are 3 basic kinds of plums that come to mind and they would have different answers. I think the Euro plums are pruned more like an apple. The Japanese plums are pruned along the lines of apricots. The ornamental plums won't be turned into something you buy in the store by pruning.

So yes, you need to be more descriptive of what you have.

I haven't really pruned my Superior or Alderman...just removed a few branches that were rubbing/crossing...they seem to be naturally weeping... I have tied down limbs.