Winter Fruit Tree Pruning in Victoria, BC - Dormant Pruning

Winter is the most important time of year to prune fruit trees. Whether you grow apples, plums, cherries, or figs, proper dormant pruning ensures your trees remain productive, healthy, and well-shaped for years to come.

At Ascent Yard Care, we provide specialized winter pruning services for fruit trees across Greater Victoria. From backyard orchards to heritage trees, our expert team helps you get the most out of every growing season.

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Why Fruit Trees Must Be Pruned in Winter

Most fruit trees enter dormancy between November and February. This is the ideal time to prune for several reasons:

•	**Improved visibility**: With no leaves, we can see and shape the tree’s structure clearly.

•	**Less stress on the tree**: Pruning in dormancy reduces risk of disease or pest infection.

•	**Better fruiting**: Pruning stimulates productive new growth and prevents overcrowding.

•	**Improved air circulation and light**: Essential for flower development and fruit ripening.

•	**Easier access and cleanup** in cooler weather.

Skipping winter pruning often leads to:

•	Weak branch structures

•	Lower yields

•	Increased disease and pest issues

•	Breakage from overloaded limbs

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Trees That Require Winter Pruning in Victoria

The following fruit trees should always be pruned in winter:

1. Apple Trees

•	Remove water sprouts and crossing limbs

•	Open up the canopy for sun penetration

•	Shape for strength and harvest accessibility

•	Promote fruiting spurs

2. Plum & Pear Trees

•	Thin dense centers to reduce fungal risk

•	Reduce overall size to prevent limb splitting

•	Control vertical growth and promote lateral fruiting wood

3. Cherry Trees (Sweet & Sour)

•	Best pruned in late winter to avoid bacterial canker

•	Shape for airflow and strong branch angles

•	Remove dead, rubbing, or overly long limbs

4. Fig Trees

•	Remove dead or weak branches

•	Shorten vigorous stems to encourage lateral growth

•	Shape for containment and fruit access

5. Peach & Nectarine Trees

•	Prune in late winter to prevent leaf curl and improve light

•	Remove old wood that no longer fruits

•	Promote healthy, strong fruiting wood for spring

Other prunable trees include quince, apricot, mulberry, medlar, and Asian pear varieties.

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Our Winter Pruning Process

Assessment and Planning

We examine the tree’s size, health, and past pruning history. Every tree receives a tailored plan—we don’t overcut or guess.

Precision Pruning

•	Remove dead, diseased, or crossing limbs

•	Thin overcrowded branches

•	Shorten overextended growth

•	Stimulate new fruit-bearing shoots

•	Maintain a balanced, open crown structure

Cleanup and Care Guidance

We remove all pruning debris and can provide:

•	Tree health recommendations

•	Fertilizer and composting advice

•	Optional follow-up pruning or seasonal care

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Why Choose Ascent Yard Care?

•	**ISA-certified arborists** and fruit tree specialists

•	Over **130+ 5-star reviews** in the Victoria region

•	Clean, efficient crews using **proper pruning techniques**

•	Full debris removal and no deposit required

•	Optional **electric tools** for low-noise operation

•	Deep knowledge of **coastal climate fruit tree care**

We don’t just prune—we optimize your orchard for real results.

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Book Your Winter Fruit Tree Pruning Today

Fruit tree pruning is time-sensitive—the best results come when it’s done between December and February.

If you wait until spring, you miss your chance to shape next year’s harvest.

Contact Ascent Yard Care today for a free on-site quote.

Let’s get your trees ready to bloom, produce, and thrive.