Pruning apple tree convert pyramid to open centre

I use a Silky Fox Gomtaro Apple 300mm pruning saw to convert a pyramid shaped apple to a delayed open centre tree. Be careful not to cut yourself on these deadly sharp saws.

Category:

Education

Tags:

• apple
• tree
• pruning
• orchard
• pyramid
• dwarf
• bush
• delayed
• open
• centre
• fruitwise
• heritage
• apples
• silky
• fox
• saw

[FLORINOID]

are wilkinson swords saw any good?

[stephenhayesuk]

Any pruning saw will do the job, I have used Wilkinson sword and Sandvik (now Bahco) saws and was happy enough with them, but having got used to the far superior Silky Fox saw I wouldn't go back to them. The teeth on the Silky fow saw are brilliantly designed so that they are completely in-line with the blade, whereas traditional saws like Wilkinson the teeth are splayed out to the sides giving a rougher cut and takes more effort. I thin it worth the extra cash if you have a lot of trees to do

[HTCSWEOD]

Got it! empty the wallet, save the wrist...

clean cut, economy of movement...

seriously though, what if anything, should you clean the blade with between trees?

[stephenhayesuk]

I don't clean the blade between trees as long as the wood is clean, if I had to cut through a diseased piece of wood i probably would. it makes sense to wash and dry the blade between sessions as you hget a sort of coagulated sap which can slow the blade down.

when i am grafting, I repeatedly clean the knife blade with alcohol while I am working as I feel the risk of an infection is higher, but I'm not sure i can prove this.

[toobmes]

But Stephen, why convert to open center? I'm a rookie, planting my first orchard 3 years ago. All my research indicates that only stone fruit should be grown open center. I have been working hard to shape all my apple trees as fat Christmas trees. Lateral tiers are 24-30" apart to allow sunlight in.

[stephenhayesuk]

fair comment toobmes.

this tree had branches which were much too low. Commercial orchards are trained in pyramid/hedgerow forms with post and wire systems. It seems this gets the maximum cropping in the shortest time, but is very demanding of inputs. I prefer the old ways.

I am not saying the pyramid is wrong, but the open centre/delayed open centre has proved succesful over most of the 20th century. It works well for me and is less intensive. The principles are very similar. regards

[troutfishholland]

It's been two years, and I still laugh when your hat hangs in the tree. Deep, belly laughs too...

[MrRashaad2525]

@stephenhayesuk what would you say is best for producing apples pyramid or open center

[ThousandThrills]

Thanks, after 3 or 4 videos, they were all pretty good! nice saw!

[phantomcreamer]

@HTCSWEOD I've seen some in the forest service use a bit of diesel fuel while cutting through some really sappy or pithy woods. This may not be safe for fruit trees and is not organic.

[LucyPorterLovesYou]

thanks so much, very helpful. i have four trees in my backgarden and this is much needed.

[LucyPorterLovesYou]

thanks so much, very helpful.

[dritty1]

Sorry for double post, just getting used to new youtube format

[dritty1]

Stephen, I've watched many of your videos over the past few years and don't remember you introducing your self, so I always thought your surname was haysuk . Now I get it. Hayes, UK! :). Any way, keep up the good work. I have a few apple trees here in Maryland, USA and think of you when I'm pruning. I even did a graft a couple of years ago and it's still good, but not fruiting yet.

Also, my first electric was a blonde tele. I don't have it anymore but am looking to replace it soon.

[dritty1]

Stephen, I've watched many of your videos over the past few years and don't remember you introducing your self, so I always thought your surname was haysuk . Now I get it. Hayes, UK! :). Any way, keep up the good work. I have a few apple trees here in Maryland, USA and think of you when I'm pruning. I even did a graft a couple of years ago and it's still good, but not fruiting yet.

Also, my first electric was a blonde tele. I don't have it anymore but am looking to replace it soon.

[sirpecangum]

Thank you very much for sharing your knowledge and experience in your videos. They are very helpful!