Get those pruners ready, it will soon be February

Pruning is more straightforward than you might think and there are several ways of doing it - with varying results, writes Tim Foster

- Tim Foster

BECAUSE it is a trifle too soon to be sowing much on the plot, our focus should perhaps be on the permanent fixtures. Specifically, fruit trees which, from a single planting, can provide us with spectacular food for many years.

2025 was a memorable year, so much so that I'm slightly concerned for the consequences in 2026's crops. Maybe it is a little early to start worrying about that. Instead, let us contemplate the pruning of apples and pears, but not, incidentally, plums and cherries which are summerpruned.

Pruning is more straightforward than you might think and there are several ways of doing it with varying results. This week we will simply set the scene.

Let's start with the timing. Basical ly, any time in the dormant season, popularly known as winter, but also stretching into March. My favourite is February.