New growth after a hard prune

[Jbest]

I have learned that a hard prune does indeed encourage new growth. But if I would let all of this new growth develop into vertical branches, I would have a big pruning job next spring. I did notice that at this stage of growth they break off very easily.
[img]https://www.jbest123.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/P5030001.jpg[/img]
The only tools I needed were a step ladder and a pair of leather gloves. I gave all the main limbs a gentle rub down which removed all the new vertical growth. It required very little time and I plan to do this about once a month through out the growing season.
[img]https://www.jbest123.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/P5030002.jpg[/img]
The new growth near the terminal end of the main limbs will remain and hopefully develop into fruit bearing branches. I or the deer will only get a few apples this year though. John
[img]https://www.jbest123.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/P5040001-560x397.jpg[/img]