FAST FACTS
Heading and thinning are the main forms of pruning used on any type of tree.
The aim of pruning is to manage tree structure and light within the tree canopy, as well as the bearing positions of buds.
Pruning always has a dwarfing effect, which affects the roots of the plant in particular.
Pruning is not rocket science; the fundamentals were established in the 1890s and research has produced few real insights on the subject since then. Yet it is often misunderstood or seen as more complex than it is, says Dr Nigel Cook, founder of horticultural consultancy Prophyta.
This is either because farmers do not understand the basics of pruning or confuse it with other forms of tree manipulation, of which pruning is a subdivision.
Another reason is the multitude of words used for the same technique. In reality, only two techniques are used on all trees and shrub whether citrus, pome, stone fruit or berries.
• Heading Also referred to as topping, this refers to the practice of decapitating the top part of a shoot, branch or tree.
• Thinning This practice refers to the removal of entire side shoots or branches (see illustration).
These techniques cause two very different physiological responses in the tree, says Cook.
HEADING VS THINNING
Cutting the top part of a shoot, branch or tree disturbs apical dominance, sparking a complex hormonal reaction within minutes. This leads to increased vegetative growth and reduced fruiting for up to two years. This reaction has even been noted on moss that has been eaten by snails.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Review: the Toyota Hilux 2.8GD-6 DC 4×4 GR-Sport III
The third iteration of the Hilux GR-Sport has finally achieved a sense of presence and style befitting its raceinspired branding. But is this the ultimate modern Hilux? Car Magazine takes a closer look.
Why maize prices soar in Kenya and Malawi but not Tanzania
Namhla Landani, an economist at the Centre for Competition, Regulation and Economic Development, University of Johannesburg, and Arthur Khomotso Mahuma, economist and researcher at the Centre for Competition, Regulation and Economic Development, University of Johannesburg, analyse the issue.
Wet carcass syndrome: a scourge in SA sheep farming
Wet carcass syndrome continues to take a huge financial toll on South African sheep farmers. Octavia Avesca Spandiel spoke to two experts about the ongoing genetic research aimed at addressing this issue.
Pollination innovation
Bee-Tech Group is transforming South African agriculture with pollination technologies that boost crop yields and enhance sustainability. Founder Michiel Bruggeman spoke to Octavia Avesca Spandiel.
The valuable addition that makes this farm tick
Owning the value chain provides farmers with far more control over their produce. However, it requires a fine balance between production and ensuring there is a strong and steady market. Lindi Botha visited Rosemary Hill to find out how this essential oil producer leverages hospitality to make the farm viable.
The benefits of recirculating aquaculture systems
A powerful set of attributes has established recirculating aquaculture systems as a cornerstone of global temperate fish farming, writes Leslie Ter Morshuizen, owner of Aquaculture Solutions.
Minister has big plans for emerging and commercial farmers
DA leader and Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen spoke to Glenneis Kriel about his priorities for his department over the next five years, including an increased focus on biosecurity.
New study aims to make wheat more disease resistant
A recent international study explains how bread wheat has helped to transform the ancient world on its path to becoming the iconic crop that today helps sustain a global population of eight billion.
Conservation farming and biodiversity boost soil health and sustainability
A recent academic event focused on research into the links between soil biodiversity, soil health and sustainable agriculture
What has led to the unparalleled rice shortage in Japan?
Japan is facing a rice shortage amid concerns about a potential 'megaquake', several typhoons and an annual week-long holiday, which has led to an increase in panic buying.