I'd be interested in comparing notes later.

I have a couple very old (40-50 YO?) apple trees with multiple stresses
(dead wood, overgrown, falling down, etc). Remarkably, they are still
producing apples, but I think they will be happier and healthier with some
pruning to let more air and sunlight into the interiors. I have been
clearing away branches in stages over the years, starting with the obviously
dead wood, then taking out some of the crossing branches and smaller stuff
that is not really helping the trees.

My main resource has been Pruning Simplified by Lewis Hill, Garden Way
Publishing/Storey Communications, Inc. (green softcover).
I've found lots of good advice and drawings for pruning different varieties
of trees, including ideal times, shapes and strategies, how to treat new
twigs vs. old ones trees, etc.
Well, you have probably read all about that already!

If the trees are really bent out of shape, they will need to be pruned in
stages to let the trees adjust. Good luck! Looking forward to hearing about
the results.

Joy in Durham

"Stephen Schmidt II" wrote in message
7...

Hello,

I have 2 apple trees that are in need of pruning and I'm not sure where to
start. Does anyone know anybody that prunes fruit trees profesionally?

I have done alot of research on the subject but I am just not confident
that I will be able to give it what it needs.

Thanks,

Stephen