Editing Fruit tree pruning (section)

==Formative pruning of bush trees==
In the early years of the tree's life, it is important to develop a framework sufficiently strong to bear the weight of crops. This requires formative pruning to reinforce the tree. Formative pruning of [[apple]] (''Malus pumila'') and [[pear]] (''Pyrus communis'') trees should be carried out in the dormant winter months. For the [[Northern hemisphere]], this should occur between November and March; For the [[Southern hemisphere]], June and September. [[Prunus|Stone fruits]]—such as [[cherry|cherries]], [[plum]]s, and [[greengage|gages]]—have different requirements, and should not be pruned in dormant months.

<gallery>
Image:Pruningyear1.png|One-year-old tree
Image:Pruningyear2.png|Two-year-old tree
Image:Pruningyear3.png|Three-year-old tree
Image:Pruningyear4.png|Four-year-old tree
</gallery>

===Maiden tree===
A maiden whip (a one-year-old tree with no side shoots) should be pruned to a bud with two buds below it at about {{convert|80|cm|abbr=on}} from the ground immediately after planting to produce primary branches during the first growing season. A feathered maiden (that is, a one-year-old tree with several side branches) should have its main stem pruned back to three or four strong shoots at {{convert|80|cm|abbr=on}} from the ground. Side shoots should be shortened by two thirds of their length to an upward or outward facing bud. Lower shoots should be removed flush with the stem.

===Two year===
Remove lower shoots and prune between three and five of the best-placed shoots by half to an upwards or outwards facing bud to form what becomes the tree's main structural branches. Remove any inward-facing shoots.

===Three year===
Prune leading shoots of branches selected to extend the framework by half, to a bud facing in the desired direction. Select four good laterals to fill the framework and shorten these by a half. Prune any remaining laterals to four buds to form [[fruiting spur]]s.

===Four year===
The tree has begun to fruit and requires only limited formative pruning. Shorten leaders by one third and prune laterals not required to extend the framework to four buds.

===Five year and onwards===
The tree is established, and should be pruned annually as described in the following section.