Given the challenges of true dwarfing rootstocks (toppling and high moisture needs), many gardeners may choose a variety with a semi-dwarfing rootstock instead. That can be a good move. Semi-dwarfing rootstocks seldom control fruit tree size as much as you’d expect, though, and pruning is the only way to ensure a tree stays under 12 feet tall.

Following the pruning steps below during the first year will give your tree an easily maintained structure for the future. In subsequent years, follow regular winter pruning techniques for your fruit tree, removing broken, diseased, crossed, or damaged branches. Each summer, keep your tree compact and manageable with summer pruning (cutting new growth back by half). If your tree is particularly vigorous, do a late spring pruning (cutting new growth back by half) as well.

1. At the initial planting time, your tree should be topped between 2 and 4 feet above the ground using a heading cut. This will force low scaffold limbs to form.

2. After its first spring flush, new, leafy branches should be cut back by half.

3. In late summer, your young tree should get its first summer pruning, with the newest growth (promoted by the early spring pruning) again cut back by half.

To learn more about growing dwarf fruit trees, check out How to Grow Dwarf Fruit Trees.

Fionuala Campion is the owner and manager of Cottage Gardens of Petaluma in Petaluma, California.

Illustrations: Lyn Alice

Fine Gardening Recommended Products

DeWalt Variable-Speed Cordless Reciprocating Saw

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

You can fit a variety of blades to this saw to cut fallen branches or prune larger limbs from trees in a pinch. It’s fast, tough, easy to use, and extremely versatile.
- 18.31 x 6.13 x 4 inches
- 1-1/8-inch stroke length
- Variable speed trigger with 0-3000 spm

Buy at Amazon

Fiskars 7.9-12ft Extendable 2-in-1 Pole Tree Trimmer & Pruner with Rotating Head and Precision-Ground Steel Saw Blade

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

IDEAL BRANCH TRIMMER: Tree pruner that extends from 7.9 to 12 feet; Lightweight aluminum pole weighing less than five pounds to help minimize fatigue; Ideal for cutting high branches, or making low cuts without bending or kneeling. MAXIMUM POWER AND PRECISION: Fiskars Tree Pruner with Low-friction coating helps to prevent gumming up with sap or debris; Chain-drive gearing mechanism that provides 3X more power; Secure double locking system ensures extended pole stays put. LONG-LASTING AND RELIABLE: Extendable tree pruner with steel blades stay sharp through heavy use and provide excellent durability for lasting value; Fiskars pruning saws for tree trimming are built to last. QUALITY GARDEN TOOLS: From tree pruners to garden shears to Tree Loppers, Fiskars garden and yard tools are equipped with smart technologies and award-winning, ergonomic features INCLUDES: 1 Fiskars Extendable Tree Pruner with 15-Inch Double-Grind Saw (item 92406935K); Full lifetime warranty.

Buy at Amazon

Greenworks 40V 14" Chainsaw, 2.5Ah USB Battery and Charger Included

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

14'' CHAIN AND BAR : great performance for tree cutting and get up to 75 cuts on 4x4 lumber on a single charge. TRUBRUSHLESS MOTOR TECHNOLOGY: 2 x more torque. Provides more power, longer runtimes, quiet operation, and extended motor life. AUTOMATIC OILER: delivers proper chain lubrication and increased productivity. EASY ADJUST TENSIONING: for easy bar and chain maintenance. EASY TO USE : push button start, no gas or fumes, no carburetor, no spark plug, and no starter rope WHAT IS INCLUDED: 40V 14-Inch chainsaw, scabbard, 2.5 Ah batteries, fast charger, operator's manual.

Buy at Amazon