Cut the leading branch to train the tree to open venter

Question: I planted a red heaven peach tree last October, I want to train the tree to open center, but I did not cut the branch leader at the time of planting the tree as recommended. Can I cut the leading leader branch next year after the winter. my first branches start at 36 inch above the soil line. I live in Longmont, Colorado. Thank you

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 01, 2023, 2:49 PM EDT
response: Hello, & thanks for the question & photo.  It's a little hard to tell from the photo which is the leader to be cut, so I'm sorry to do this, but need to ask you to reply to this thread via email that includes a close up that's in good light (sun to your back as you take the photo) of the two questioned branches. That will help us make a safer recommendation.  Please include this entire email thread so the next volunteer has the history and the photo you already included here along with the new one.  It's great that you know NOT to do such cutting now in the spring/early summer, particularly given how young the tree is, so you are spot on regarding waiting until winter pruning time.   Here is a CSU Extension fact sheet with info about training young fruit trees: https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/training-and-pruning-fruit-trees-7-003/.  I hope that helps & we look forward to seeing your close ups.  Best regards, Boulder County Master Gardener Volunteers

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 05, 2023, 3:08 PM EDT
response: attached some pictures of the tree as requested, also if there is printed materials or video on how to care for peach treeThank you very much IMG_1413.jpeg IMG_1415.jpeg IMG_1419.jpeg IMG_1424.jpeg IMG_1425.jpeg IMG_1426.jpegOn Thu, Jun 1, 2023 at 12:49 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 06, 2023, 12:31 PM EDT
response: This link, Training and Pruning Fruit Trees - 7.003 - Extension (colostate.edu) has the information you requested.   It seems that there is still time to do the training you desire.   We do have a tree team that can come to your property and do an on-site assessment.  It costs $25 for the one tree.    If interested, email <personal data hidden>   Or you can hire a certified arborist.  The city of Longmont has a list of contractors licensed to work in the city. <personal data hidden>2570000 (longmontcolorado.gov)   Master Gardener Volunteers   From: ask=<personal data hidden> <ask=<personal data hidden>> On Behalf Of Ask Extension Sent: Monday, June 5, 2023 1:09 PM To: Boulder County Parks Master Gardeners <<personal data hidden>> Subject: [EXTERNAL] New response added to your question (#0103010)

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 06, 2023, 1:14 PM EDT
response: Thank you very much. I will request a member of your team next year at the end of next winter. unless you think I should do it now. Thank youOn Tue, Jun 6, 2023 at 10:31 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 06, 2023, 1:39 PM EDT
response: We talked to our tree team scheduler.  She isn’t certain that our team will be able to help you.   She recommended getting a certified arborist instead.   Master Gardener volunteers   From: ask=<personal data hidden> <ask=<personal data hidden>> On Behalf Of Ask Extension Sent: Tuesday, June 6, 2023 11:14 AM To: Boulder County Parks Master Gardeners <<personal data hidden>> Subject: [EXTERNAL] New response added to your question (#0103010)