Stub Length for Renewal Pruning in Honeycrisp and Gala

Project goal: Determine the optimal length to leave pruning stubs for the best return of renewal pruning.

Project description:  In some varieties of apple, it has been found that the length of the pruning stub has an impact on the size and vigor of the renewal branch that pushes from the stub.  In this trial, we are testing which length provides the most optimal renewal results.  During the spring season of 2020 we made three stub pruning cuts per tree in Honeycrisp and Gala.   The stub lengths that are being evaluated are: 1”, 2”, 3”, and 4”.  Treatments were replicated thirty times in each apple variety.  

Project lead/collaborators: Nikki Rothwell

Funding sources: NWMHR Foundation funds

Start year: 2020

End year: 2021

Research

Michigan State University
  • Spartans Will.
  • © Michigan State University

MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer, committed to achieving excellence through a diverse workforce and inclusive culture that encourages all people to reach their full potential.

Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status. Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Quentin Tyler, Director, MSU Extension, East Lansing, MI 48824. This information is for educational purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned.

The 4-H Name and Emblem have special protections from Congress, protected by code 18 USC 707.

We comply with the Federal Trade Commission 1998 Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).