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How to prune just planted sweet cherry

6 years ago

Hi there,


long time reader for all plant related tips, first time posting here.

I just bought and planted this Lapins cherry tree which I believe is on a dwarfing rootstock.

I would have rather planted it earlier in the season, but with the virus the nurseries were closed until recently and we moved a lot of dirt changing the backyard.


I am having trouble understanding the many guides on pruning fruit trees online because I don't know how old this tree is, and it doesn't seem to be the recommended time to prune, but I also want to avoid the tree getting stuck in this shape before it is too late to do anything about it.


East bay area here, sunset zone 14, or USDA 9b or 10a.


it looks like the first branches start about 3 feet up. I would like the tree to be more bushy than lanky and vertical for easier harvesting. It has 3 branches that are at fairly narrow angles growing upward rather than outward. The branches are still bendable but not looking to be this years growth.

Can I should I prune at this time or let the new growth set in and wait till next spring?

Also can I weigh down the branches to make them grow more sideways without breaking them off?

The pruning guides suggest having the lateral branches at varying heights with sufficient separation, but these branches all seem to emerge from the trunk around the same area.


Any tips on how to prune this into a productive and convenient tree?





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