I would only prune to shape, as in if there was a branch or water sprout that took off and gave the tree a weird form. If you're happy with the shape of your tree then don't prune it. It is not necessary to prune for buds next year.
Evan

Not sure where you have read that, Nancy. Citrus really do not need to be pruned. Evan is giving you accurate advice. Citrus are tip-producers, so this could cause you to lose all or most of your next year's crop. Think we may have mentioned this previously in your other message thread, but certainly worth repeating, in case we missed telling you this :-)

Patty S.

This post was edited by hoosierquilt on Fri, Jan 2, 15 at 0:35

Our Meyers are in ground so I prune all the time, but that's because the Meyer naturally cross-branches like crazy. Pruning will give you larger but fewer lemons, if that's what you want.

Meyers are bred to bear fast and furiously, so they will often show buds, new fruits, and ripe fruits simultaneously. Best time to prune in-ground plants is right after heaviest harvest, which for us is after March. With a potted plant, definitely wait until after your harvest, whenever that occurs.

Yes,you're correct, jkom51. I probably should have been more clear: mature in-ground trees will eventually need some pruning, but mostly to remove any heavy inner canopy branches (the branches will eventually die, if buried in the canopy), and any crossing branches, but beyond that, and the occasional water sprout that might need to be trimmed back, citrus really should not be pruned in the same way you would prune other trees. If you have a tree that is becoming monstrously tall (standard rootstock grapefruits and pummelos can get pretty tall), you can drop crotch prune them to bring them down in height. Or of course, next time buy a tree on semi-dwarfing rootstock. :-) Mature container citrus may also need some minor pruning, and even root pruning if you're trying to keep the tree small, so it will fit in a reasonably sized container, but a young container tree really shouldn't be pruned, except perhaps the odd water sprout.

Patty S.

thank you all. the reason for second posting was I could not find my first posting and got only one response to my email address. but thanks to one and all. I do have a dwarf and it will stay potted since I live in zone 6 and have to bring in (15 degrees out today). so I will let it alone and see what happens come spring. thanks again.