Diarmuid Gavin: Before you begin pruning fruit trees, always remember the ‘Three Ds’

The perfect time has arrived to prune your apple and pear trees. The dormant period, lasting from November to early March (just before bud burst), provides ideal conditions for this essential gardening task.

However, it’s important to note that certain fruit trees, such as those trained as espaliers, fans, or cordons, should be pruned in summer instead. Additionally, avoid pruning stone fruits like plums, cherries and almonds during winter as they are susceptible to silver leaf disease if pruned at this time.