Apple tree pruning....again...sorry

[Mrs Ava]

Pruning and me don't always mix.  I am a cut back if it is in the way or diseased kinda girl, and then leave them pretty much alone.  On the allotment we have 2 apple trees, and I have another one in the garden.  They are all covered in apples, but not as many this year as last.  Should I be pruning about now, and if yes, how - in really really simple terms please - and I don't mean with a pair of lopers, I mean where on a branch.  I know I am supposed to be producing fruiting spurs  ???.  Tis all greek to me! :-\

[Mrs Ava]

[derbex]

Only if they're spur bearers, some are tip bearers, and some are both  ???

Jeremy

Who's even more confused.

[Muddy_Boots]

Hi EJ

Google Apple tree pruning.  I should be able to tell you myself, being in Kent.  However, know there is summer pruning and autumn pruning and all I know is make a bowl of the tree for maximum light.  About the third or fourth listing is the good one.  Best of luck!

[allotment_chick]

Hi EJ - this is something that become easier with experience I'm sure.  Strangely, once looking at the tree in the winter your laterals, sub-laterals and fruiting spurs seem quite obvious - not so easy in the summer.

I found the RHS site useful - here is the link and another, also informative.  They may help.
AC x
http://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profiles0700/summer_pruning.asp
http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/hort/hil/ag29.html