🌳✂️ Become a Pruning Ninja! ✂️🌳
Learn the art and science of pruning fruit trees and fruit bushes with edible landscape designer and self-proclaimed Ninja Pruner, Michael Judd. In this video, Michael breaks down when, why, and how to prune—so you can approach your fruit trees and bushes with clarity, confidence, and intention.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned grower, you’ll gain practical skills and a clear mindset focused on what truly benefits the plant—and ultimately rewards you with healthier growth and more delicious fruit.
Get inspired, sharpen your pruning skills, and step into your role as a pruning ninja! 🍎🍐🌿
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00:00–02:30 Introduction to pruning, goals, art vs science
02:30–05:30 Climate, disease pressure, and species selection
05:30–07:45 Open structure concept and “bird flying through the tree”
07:45–10:30 Tree forms overview: vase, central leader, modified central leader
10:30–12:30 Branch spacing, crotch angles, and structural strength
12:30–15:00 Shaping young trees and building a long-term framework
15:00–17:30 Size control, light management, and fruiting behavior
17:30–20:00 Pruning for tree health, longevity, and fruit quality
20:00–22:15 Visual outcomes, spacing, and orchard aesthetics
22:15–26:45 Tools for pruning and importance of sharpness
26:45–29:30 Heading cuts vs thinning cuts and energy redirection
29:30–32:30 Proper heading cuts, bud direction, and timing
32:30–35:30 Proper thinning cuts, branch collars, and large branch removal
35:30–38:30 Evaluating crowded trees and selecting scaffold branches
38:30–41:15 Deer pressure, lifting branches, suckers, and spacing
41:15–43:30 Structural failures, bark inclusion, and weak crotches
43:30–46:00 Rehabilitating old trees and multi-year pruning plans
46:00–49:30 Managing water sprouts, staged thinning, and recovery
49:30–52:30 Mulching, soil health, and holistic tree care
52:30–55:30 Large limb removal strategy and safety cuts
55:30–58:30 Final pruning mindset, patience, and observation
58:30–01:02:00 Closing reflections on pruning as long-term stewardship
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6 Comments
Great overview Michael! I’ve started pruning my fruit trees in the past week. We’ve had a very dry and warm winter thus far here in CO.
Wow! Very good training. So true about developing an intimate relationship with the tree through pruning. It's like the tree becomes your friend. Big yes on keeping trees pruned to reach height, not needing a ladder, very important. Thanks so much for this!
I am still watching but I see your beautiful pawpaw with 2 leaders. I have been told by many that it should only have one, and if not pruned to have one that one will eventually come down and damage the tree. Prior to hearing that, I was excited to see 2 leaders growing, just because it's different. I like to honor the tree's wishes.
Excellent, thank you.
Excellent tutorial, thank you as always 👍
Wow! Wow! Wow! Top notch video on pruning and enthusiasm for edible landscaping. Absolutely LOVE this! Gratitude to you for sharing you wisdom and experience. Highly inspirational!