How to Cut or Score Bark of Fruit Trees to Increase Fruit Bearing
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Scoring of fruit trees -- making a shallow cut around the trunk or branches -- can help increase fruit yield. Although the score will heal, the process will inhibit new branch growth on the tree. In addition, the interruption of nutrient flow focuses the tree’s energy on fruit production, increasing the number, size and sweetness of fruit. The next year after a score will see even more blossoms. Growers must use caution to select only those trees with the healthiest, most vigorous growth in the previous year for scoring, as this procedure can devastate weaker trees.
1
Insert the tip of a sharp knife into the bark on the trunk of a healthy fruit tree with 4 to 6 inches of new growth about 10 days after the petals of the blossoms fall. Between the ground and the lowest large supporting branches, cut deep enough so that the knife tip pierces the cambium layer of the tree just below the bark, but not deep enough to cut into the wood, or xylum layer. Extend the cut in a spiral around the trunk, making sure the ends of the cut do not meet; leave about 6 inches between the ends.
2
Score large branches in a semicircle, extending the cut only halfway around the circumference near the junction with the trunk or supporting branch. Selectively scoring branches instead of the trunk helps you shape the tree and keep its growth regular so fruit production is constant.
3
Score a large branch on its underside if there is no fruit set by 10 days after the end of the bloom. This may activate latent blossoms and, therefore, more fruit.
4
Score the fruit tree again 40 to 50 days after the tree blooms to encourage more blossoms. Promote fruit ripening by scoring about 60 days after the tree blooms.
Things You Will Need
Curved knife (such as a linoleum knife)
Tips
Repeat scoring each year, if desired, but only on trees whose health remains vigorous. Score different branches each year, depending on the tree’s shape and fruit production pattern.
Tend and monitor your fruit trees closely to treat for insects and diseases, as well as to water and fertilize them properly. Knowing your trees this well helps you assess which ones will benefit most from scoring.
Scoring six or seven weeks before the fruit tree blooms helps promote branching of the tree. Scoring during the bloom inhibits overall growth.
Karren Doll Tolliver holds a Bachelor of English from Mississippi University for Women and a CELTA teaching certificate from Akcent Language School in Prague. Also a photographer, she records adventures by camera, combining photos with journals in her blogs. Her latest book, "A Travel for Taste: Germany," was published in 2015.
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