Pruning at planting

[Serf Life]

Any research on how much is too much? Recently planted 7 “orphan” trees for a client out of the bargain part of a nursery. Mult tight tops, crossed limbs, but roots ok etc. My MO has been leave almost all foliage for the first season to help it establish, but open to suggestions.

 

[ATH]

Never easier to address a multiple leader than when the tree is laying on the ground!

Beyond that unless there is something totally outta whack, I leave them alone. Maybe take off the inside part of a limb that is disproportionately large to let something else fill that gap in. But over all, I want as many "food factories" on there to help it get established. The more significant pruning can come in 2-3 years. If I don't think I client will call back, I'll be a little more aggressive to get it a good start on structure.

 

[Reach]

I’ll second ATH. I don’t really do much (any) planting anymore, but that is my thought, as the tree is stressed enough just being replanted.