When to prune peach, nectarine and plum
Late winter to bloom (latest of the fruit trees). Peaches fruit on last year's shoots and are prone to cold injury and canker; pruning close to bloom lowers risk and lets you see flower buds.
| Type | fruit tree |
|---|---|
| Blooms on | 1-year-old wood |
| Bloom season | early spring |
| When to prune | Late winter to bloom (latest of the fruit trees) |
| Stop | No heavy pruning in the 6–8 weeks before your first fall frost |
Avoid
Fall and early-winter pruning.
Also
Open-center shape.
Example dates
| Place | Dates |
|---|---|
| Austin, TX (78701) | Feb 10–Mar 10 |
| Atlanta, GA (30303) | Feb 24–Mar 24 |
| St. Louis, MO (63101) | Mar 4–Apr 1 |
| Chicago, IL (60614) | Mar 13–Apr 10 |
| Denver, CO (80202) | Apr 2–30 |
| Seattle, WA (98101) | Feb 13–Mar 13 |
Every ZIP page has its own dates. Find your ZIP.
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Sources
- Penn State Extension: Pruning Fruit Trees
- Clemson Cooperative Extension HGIC: Pruning Shrubs
Summarized in our own words from public extension publications.
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