Should I Pollard My Apricot Tree/

Question

I was asked to move a six year old apricot tree which was dying in a shady spot. three of its five main branches were dying. I did so, as there was nothing to lose, but the move has not helped much, due to inevitable root damage and so it has been struggling to take up water, though it has been reguarly watered. the three branches died and were removed, the two others have leaves growing on the end of the branches, several feet from the trunk. I have been advised to more or less coppice it, when i would normally prune it in August, removing the two remaining branches very hear the trunk. That would leave it leafless. it seems very drastic to leave a struggling tree with no leaves and large wounds – what would you recommend?

Answer 1

It sounds like overwatering may be the cause of stress, here. In order for roots to form, there must be a slight dry period. This will allow roots to breathe and exchange ions with the soil, which will help them to grow. Soils that remain wet will halt these processes.

Unfortunately, adding stress on top of stress isn't the way to go.

I would wait until the tree is healthy to stress it out.

This article will help you to know how to care for the tree:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/apricots/apricot-tree-growing.htm