Agronomist warns against pruning fruit trees right after harvest

An agronomist advises against pruning fruit trees immediately after harvest, warning that late-summer pruning can harm the trees. The recommendation is to wait until after leaves fall and the tree enters winter dormancy. Pruning young growth in summer improves crown lighting and prevents thickening, but heavy pruning of older wood after harvest awakens dormant buds. These new shoots won't mature before frost, risking freeze damage and becoming a haven for diseases and pests in spring. Additionally, trees absorb nutrients from leaves before shedding them to store for winter; heavy pruning reduces these reserves. The agronomist suggests pruning can begin in autumn after leaf drop, without waiting for early spring.