Garden Expert: Pruning Apple Trees – New Tree, Old Tree

Adult

Start Date:	Duration:	Level:	Study mode:	Course location:	Course Type:
November	1 Weeks	Entry	Part-Time - Day	Kirkley Hall Campus	Hobbies	Enquire	Enrol

What’s it all about?

Healthy, productive apple trees rely on correct pruning at every stage of their life. This practical four-hour course introduces the essential principles and techniques of apple tree pruning, combining classroom learning with hands-on practice to help learners develop the skills and confidence to care for both young and mature trees.

Participants will explore why pruning is important, how apple trees grow and produce fruit, and the differences between formative pruning for newly planted trees and restorative pruning for established or neglected specimens.

The course explains how to recognise the tree's natural structure, identify fruiting wood, and make pruning decisions that improve tree health, shape, light penetration, and fruit production.

During the practical session, learners will apply pruning techniques, gaining experience in selecting branches to remove, making clean pruning cuts, and using pruning tools safely and effectively.

*Course costs

Study level	Cost
19+	Please enquire

Time commitments

This course takes place over 4 hours (the first session is between 10am-12pm with a break for lunch and then the second session is between 1pm to 3pm).

What’s next?

Following this workshop, you’ll have the skills and knowledge to nurture apple trees and grow delicious fruit.

You’ll also be able to take part in one of our other horticulture or floristry workshops and short courses, or, you can enrol on one of our full or part-time horticulture programmes to gain a qualification and start your career outdoors.