Construction, standards and environment
formative pruning
In short and in plain language
Formative pruning is the pruning of young trees.
In the first years it gives the tree a good shape. This makes the crown strong.
After that comes pruning that keeps the tree in shape.
Definition
Formative pruning is the pruning of a young tree in its first years after planting, which creates a stable, well-structured crown. It follows pruning at planting and later gives way to maintenance pruning. On fruit trees it lays the foundation for yield and care in the years that follow.