What should I do with my apple tree now?

[custardpies]

My apple tree has lots of small fruits. I read somewhere that to ensure larger fruit, I need to prune some of the smaller fruits off. Is this right? I also read something about 'june drop' for apple trees where the smaller fruits will drop off by themselves. Photo of apple tree attached.


Likewise, my pear tree has lots of small fruits as well. Do I need to prune some of it off?

I am a novice gardener so will appreciate any advice from more experienced gardeners. Thanks!

[girlynut]

Sorry I can't help but marking my place as I have the same question!

[aircooled]

See how many drop off naturally then remove some of the smaller ones if the clusters look crowded. Looks like a young tree - does the trunk have a stake to give some support? The individual branches are thin and could snap if the apples are heavy - prop them up if necessary (speaking from experience!). It looks a bit lopsided, could probably do with a prune during the winter to create a good basic shape for the future. The RHS website should have the info you need.

[agoodbook]

Wait for June drop ( really sort of 1st week in July !) then give the tree a good shake. If its a very young tree - less than 3 years old - thin fruits to leave one apple per branch or two at the most. It will give you more fruit in the long run if you keep the fruiting down for a few years :) Same with pears. Best to prune in winter when its dormant