Big Daddy, can I prune my apple tree now, or do I need to wait for all the leaves to get on the tree? -GB

Trees can be pruned anytime during the year as long as a few rules are observed. The number one rule is to take the tree's health into consideration and why you would like to remove branches in the first place. A tree already in stress, may have a difficult time healing the wounds from pruning, leaving the tree vulnerable to pest and disease. Drought stress, root or trunk damage, nutrient imbalance, etc. can all be factors in stressing a tree. I personally like pruning in early spring after buds have begun and before leaves set, because it gives me the opportunity to examine the structure of the tree, looking for crossing or rubbing branches, weak angles and breakage inside the canopy with a clear view. By waiting until the buds set, I can also see any branches that may not leaf and get a closer look at what may be cutting off their nutrient flow. Once you get a clear picture of what needs to be cut vs. what is cosmetic, you can follow the one quarter rule, removing no more than one quarter of the canopy and include your "must-haves" in that number.
Make sure that you also follow proper cutting techniques to allow the tree to heal and safety techniques, especially in dealing with large or high branches. For a lot more info and some snazzy 7th grade science class illustrations, visit our friends in the International Society of Arborculture and most of all, get outside and enjoy the return of spring!- BD