The Latest Methods and Precautions for Apple Branch Twisting

In the process of apple cultivation, branch twisting techniques are often used. So-called branch twisting is a technique of rotating a certain part of a one-year-old or perennial branch by a certain angle, to change the branch's growth orientation and bud direction and to create artificial wounds. Its main function is to block nutrient exchange, increase nutrient accumulation, regulate light, and so on. It is suitable for vigorous branches, and when combined with pinching, the effect is very obvious. So how should branch twisting be carried out on apple trees? Let's take a look together.

I. Branch Twisting Methods

1. Twisting large branches

If it is a current-year branch, it is relatively easy. Simply hold the base tightly with one hand, and with the other hand first push inward and upward, then twist, so that after the branch turns 180 degrees it is pulled to a 90-degree angle, making the upper side become the lower side and the lower side become the upper side, then tie it with rope to fix it. If it is a perennial, scar-free and thick branch, then two people are needed to work together.

2. Twisting branches on the upper side

Before bud break, weak branches are left alone, while vigorous branches can be lightly twisted in stages. According to the feel and force, lightly twist 180 degrees, and at the same time combine with suppressing the top to promote budding. For branches under 15 cm, twist once in the middle; for longer ones, twist several times more, then let them grow freely; generally there is no need to change direction.

3. Twisting perennial large branches

Perennial branches are very hard, and the technique is difficult to control. Either they cannot be twisted, or they break during twisting. Many fruit growers simply thin them out, causing waste. The trick for twisting this type of branch is that while pushing inward and bending, the inner hand must cooperate by gripping tightly and twisting inward with force; that is, the inside and outside cooperate to twist together, and then it can be turned. At the beginning of twisting, do not panic when you hear sounds and cracking. Wait until horizontal and diagonal cracks appear, then immediately stop twisting, tie the rope around the wound, and continue twisting the branch. After the base moves, shift outward. The inner hand grips tightly at the junction between the moved and unmoved parts, so that the part already turned cannot move again. The outer hand continues bending and twisting the branch. Continue in this way, shifting outward until the required drooping angle is reached, then stop and fix it.

II. Precautions

For one-year-old branches, twist once every 5-6 buds; for 2-year-old branches, twist at the junction between strong and weak parts, that is, at the very front of the weak branch section and immediately behind the strong branch section; for perennial branches, twist at the base. Before twisting, first see where the force point is. During twisting, if there is a large split wound that cannot be closed tightly, it is best to wrap it tightly with clean plastic film. For vigorous new shoots on the upper side that are numerous, twist them promptly. Turn lower-side ones to the upper side and upper-side ones to the lower side, to ease the vigor on the upper side.

The above is an introduction to apple branch twisting methods and precautions. We hope it can help you. To learn more related knowledge, please stay tuned to us.