Managing Pruning and Fertilization of Honeycrisp to Balance Growth, Cropping etc
Mike Basedow, Tree Fruit Specialist
Eastern New York Commercial Horticulture
Bitter pit in Honeycrisp is affected by tree vigor which in turn is affected by both pruning and fertilization levels. Thus, to achieve a balance between vigor and fruit quality we must manage both pruning and fertilization in a coordinated manner. When deciding how severely to prune a Honeycrisp tree, we should consider flower bud number per tree and also leaf nutrient levels and the peel sap nutrient values, which we have been collecting statewide over the last 2 summers.
Managing Pruning and Fertilization of Honeycrisp to Balance Growth, Cropping etc (pdf; 121KB)

Upcoming Events
Capital Region Orchard Twilight Meeting
August 11, 2026
Rexford, NY
Join the ENYCHP and Cornell scientists on August 11 for the Capital Region Orchard Twilight meeting in Saratoga! We will be touring Bowman Orchards and reviewing seasonal recommendations for pests and diseases for apples, plums, and berries, as well discussing crop insurance.
NYSDEC Pesticide Applicator Recertification Credits: 1.25 in categories 22, 1A, & 10. Refreshments will be provided.
Free to attend, however we do ask that you register ahead so we know how many people to expect.
Champlain Valley Orchard Storage Meeting
August 26, 2026
Chazy, NY
Join various experts from Cornell and Cooperative Extension at an orchard storage meeting for the Champlain Valley in Chazy from 1 to 4PM on August 26th. Free to attend, however we do ask that you register ahead so we know how many people to expect.
