Apple tree branches at all levels often fail to open properly due to improper angles or lack of opening. This leads to uneven branching, an irregular tree structure, disordered branch arrangement, poor air circulation, and reduced light penetration. As a result, the tree tends to focus on vegetative growth rather than fruit production, leading to inefficient development. However, when the tree matures, this unbalanced growth can actually improve fruit quality and yield. To address these issues, timely "strong pulling" is an effective technique that helps manage branch growth effectively.
Currently, the branches are more flexible, easier to manipulate, and recover quickly from wounds, with fewer instances of backgrowth and fruit drop. This makes it an ideal time for branch pulling, so growers should take full advantage of this window.
1. **The Role of Branch Pulling**
Branch pulling helps expand the tree's canopy, accelerate its development, improve air and light conditions, regulate nutrient distribution and hormone balance, control tree vigor, encourage flowering, and make better use of available space. This ultimately leads to more efficient three-dimensional fruiting.
2. **Adjusting Branch Angles**
Depending on the variety and desired tree shape, permanent main branches should generally be pulled to around 90 degrees, while temporary main branches and lateral branches should be opened to between 95 to 110 degrees. All branches on the main stem should be pulled into a natural, sagging position to promote balanced growth.
3. **Best Time for Branch Pulling**
Branch pulling should be done during the growing season. For large, strong perennial branches and their side branches, the best time is after flowering until mid-to-late May (early spring). For younger 1-2 year-old branches and fruit-bearing ends, the optimal period is mid-August through late autumn.
4. **Techniques for Pulling Branches**
The method used is called “push twice, rub twice, press three times, and fix four times.†That means: “Push†involves repeatedly lifting the branches upward; “Rub†refers to rubbing them up and down; “Press†is gradually bending them downward once they’re soft; and “Fix†involves using plastic ties, ropes, or thin wires to secure the branches in place. For 1-2 year-old shoots and lateral branches, the “F†shape angle is often used after pushing and massaging. For larger branches that are hard to pull, two or three small cuts are made at the base, removing about one-third of the branch thickness, spaced 3 cm apart. Afterward, the branch is pressed down and fixed with wire for a full year.
5. **Important Notes When Pulling Branches**
First, avoid creating a bow-back shape, as this may lead to regrowth. Second, combine branch pulling with bud carving for better results. Third, never pull the main branch directly—after pulling the main branch, also pull the lateral branches. Ensure that the main branch angle is greater than 90 degrees, and that the lateral branches have a wider angle than the main ones.
By following these techniques, apple growers can significantly improve tree structure, enhance fruit production, and ensure long-term orchard health. It’s essential to stay attentive to the right timing and proper methods to achieve the best outcomes.
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