Apple trees are best pruned when they are dormant, typically in late winter, after the worst frosts have passed but before new growth starts. This timing helps wounds heal quickly in spring and lets you shape the tree with a clear view of its structure. Direct guidance

• Primary pruning window: late winter to very early spring (roughly November through March in many temperate regions), with the peak cutting typically after leaf fall but before buds break in most standards. This aligns with the goal of controlling size, improving structure, and opening the canopy for airflow. [sources aligned with standard horticultural guidance]
• Seasonal nuances:
  • Winter pruning (dormant season): Encourages vigorous new growth and is commonly used for standard apple trees to refine shape and remove crossing or damaged wood. [seasonal pruning norms]
  • Spring/summer pruning: Suitable for trained forms (espaliers, fans) or when trees are very large and you want to limit new growth; it’s also a good time to remove diseased or dead wood after fruit set. [trained-form pruning guidance]
  • Autumn pruning: Generally avoided because it can stimulate new growth just as the tree is preparing to go dormant, which can be risky for winter survival in some climates. [timing cautions]
• For young trees: Start shaping early, focusing on establishing a strong framework rather than heavy fruit production in the first few years. Maintain your chosen height and structure year to year. [new tree guidance]
• Regional tips:
  • If your tree is on a vigorous rootstock or in a milder climate, you may have a slightly earlier or broader window, but dormancy-based pruning remains the core strategy. [region-specific considerations]
  • For late-winter pruning in colder areas, aim for a spell of milder weather to minimize frost damage to fresh cuts. [frost considerations]

What to aim for in pruning

• Remove dead, damaged, or diseased wood.
• Eliminate vertical “water sprouts” or inward-growing limbs that crowd the center.
• Open the canopy to improve light penetration and air circulation.
• Maintain or establish a central leader with well-spaced primary limbs.
• For fruit quantity vs. tree size, balance pruning to encourage fruiting wood while keeping the tree within harvest reach.

If you share your location (country/region) and whether your apple tree is standard, semi-dwarf, or trained as a particular espalier or fan, a more precise window and steps can be provided.