May is a special time in gardening, when fruit trees are budding but not yet fully green, making it an ideal opportunity to plant the so-called "spring" fruit trees. woody pruningto carry out the green pruning to start. Correct pruning in May helps trees to grow healthily, improves yields and prevents the development of diseases. In this guide, we summarise the most important rules and practices to help you prune your fruit and ornamental trees with confidence in May.

1. Timing of pruning: when to prune in May?

• Pruning in May: pruning can still be done in May, as the trees are not fully leafed out at this time of year, so the branches are clearly visible. This pruning is a way of shaping the structure of the tree and removing dead or damaged branches. It is particularly recommended for apple and pear trees from the end of the dormant season until the beginning of May.
• Green pruning: in May, you can start green pruning, i.e. thinning out the fresh shoots to make the crown more airy and to allow sunlight and spray to reach all parts of the plant. This pruning helps to optimise yields and prevent disease.

2. May pruning rules for fruit trees

2.1 Removal of damaged, diseased and dead branches

The first and most important step is to remove any damaged, diseased or dead branches, which can hinder the healthy growth of the tree and act as a source of infection.

• Cut these branches as close to the trunk or main branch as possible.
• Use sharp, disinfected pruning shears to avoid spreading pathogens.

2.2 Selection of the leading branch

• Select a strong, healthy, vertical leading branch that will become the main trunk of the tree.
• Remove the other competing leader branches to allow the tree to form a well-shaped, tapered crown.

2.3 Crown shaping

• Leave 4-5 side branches around the main branch, evenly spaced.
• Prune back the side branches to stimulate branching, creating a more airy, sunny crown.
• Remove inward-growing, crossing branches that shade each other and make spraying difficult.

3. May green pruning - thinning fresh shoots

• Remove any shoots that are too dense, so that the crown is well ventilated.
• Water shoots (strong, upward shoots) are cut from the shoots, because they do not grow.
• Thin out weak, thin shoots to concentrate the tree's energy on the productive branches.
• Green pruning helps prevent fungal diseases and improves the quality of the crop.

4. Pruning tips for ornamental trees and shrubs in May

• In May, you can already prune ornamental shrubs that have flowered in early spring (e.g. Japanese quince, golden tree) to encourage the formation of flower buds for the following year.
• Avoid cutting back too hard, opt for thinning and shape retention.
• In the case of ornamental trees, pruning in May should be limited to aerating the crown and removing dead or damaged branches.

5. What to look out for when pruning in May?

• Let's not be too late! Pruning too late can weaken the plant and reduce yields.
• Always use sharp, clean tools! This reduces the risk of injury and infection.
• Always cut above the bud, at an angle! This makes water run off more easily and reduces the risk of rot.
• Pay attention to the individual characteristics of the wood! Every tree is different, so adapt the pruning to the plant.

Summary

Pruning in May is key to maintaining the health of fruit and ornamental trees. Pruning can still be done at this time of year to remove damaged, diseased branches, establish the ideal structure of the tree and select the leading branch. Green pruning can also be started, which improves crown aeration and yield by thinning out fresh shoots. When pruning, always pay attention to the characteristics of the plant, use sharp tools and avoid cutting back too late or too hard. This will ensure that our fruit and ornamental trees remain healthy, strong and productive all year round.