The rest should be removed.

Prune after the coldest part of winter has passed.

apple tree pruning cuts Jun 06, When pruning out an entire branch, cutting back to the collar of the branch, slightly away from the trunk, is a common approach.

Trim along the outer edge of the branch's collar. However, if you are merely shortening a branch, try and prune to an outward-facing bud- one that is directed away from the neighboring shrubmulching.baral Cost: 0 to 75 (if tool purchase required). Dec 16, Late winter or early spring while the tree is still dormant and before active growth begins for the season is the best time to prune apple trees. Buds are easier to see and work around and cut wounds have a chance to dry up before insects come out in the spring.

You will see less effect on winter hardiness and overall tree shrubmulching.barted Reading Time: 9 mins. Oct 07, The best time to prune apple trees is either late in the winter or early in the spring because that’s the time when the tree is entering a dormant state after shedding its leaves and before new buds appear. It’s best to complete the pruning just before the growth starts in the spring, so the cuts have time to heal quickly.