too late to prune cherry?

too late to prune cherry?

Asked on 21 Apr, 2008

I have a dual cherry tree (stella and van) which must be 2 to 3 years old only. It didnt flower or cherry last year.It suffered bad storm damage last year most of its lower branches snapped off so it looks a funny shape and seems to be just growing upwards not outwards. I read that it should be pruned in march but dont know if its too late now. Its buds are just beginning to open but they look like just leaves again not blossom. Would pruning it now be a bad idea. Any tips on pruning/ caring for cherries greatfully recieved

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Bonkersbon

23 Apr, 2008

Hi Hedgehogg you say branches snapped off depends where they snapped. If they snapped close to main trunk then likely to have pulled a heel or sliver of bark away.If branches snapped then exposed end will have died back though side shoots may well be returning. generally it is recommended to prune late summer.
Surprised you read March as surely you would be removing that years blossom and fruiting cycle.
March is supposed to be early spring when sap is rising in trees.Pruning then would leave pruning sites weeping sap not a good idea with cherries as this when most likely to become infected.
This why late summer prune advised as sap has stopped then.
Would treat any open areas with tree paint seals wounds and comes with brush available most garden centres. Do not prune till August.

Hedgehogg

23 Apr, 2008

thanks very much for your reply i was also very surprised to read that cherries should be pruned in march but the book I bought called fruit expert certainly says prune young cherry trees in march. Like you say i was worried that i may remove this years blossom and fruit cycle. Sap is rising as buds are sticky. Maybe i will leave it to august like you suggest to be safe. Thanks for that

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too late to prune cherry?

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