Summer pruning

Summer pruning may not be needed every year or for every tree, but where excessive new woody growth is made, there are benefits from thinning out some of the new growth to regulate the tree. Doing this in mid-to-late summer allows more light to fall on the apples which will lead to better colour and less apple scab, you are also going to prevent the tree getting overcrowded in future years.

Big, tall growing 'standard' apple trees, the sort you hang a swing from and sit in the shade beneath, cannot realistically be summer pruned, these trees find their own balance but in any event are usually more architectural/beautiful than fruit prduction units. But for restricted forms such as cordons, espaliers and dwarf bushes, summer pruning can be very helpful and even essential. As always, think about the needs of the tree and use your judgement