A second tier of scaffolds is made starting 24 to 30 inches above the first tier. Using semi-dwarf rootstocks such as MM 111, there should be a third tier the same distance above the second. It is important that these scaffold limbs do not grow straight up. Vigorous upright growth tends to be less fruitful, and it will interfere with the limbs above. If the scaffolds can be made to grow outward, the width of the tree will increase, increasing the amount of light intercepted by the tree.
Some cultivars are cooperative in producing wide angled, spreading limbs.
Red 'Delicious' is a notorious exception. Every branch it produces is convinced that its destiny is to become the leader of the tree, and consequently they all grow straight up. Effective management of 'Delicious' demands that mechanical spreading of the scaffold limbs be done to prevent crowding of the branches and shading of the interior and to promote lateral growth and fruitfulness. Once the shape of the tree has been established and the tree is mature, the annual pruning is a matter of removing upright growing shoots, competing shoots, and dead wood, and shortening any branches that are growing too tall or wide. Most of the pruning cuts on a mature apple tree will probably be in the top part to prevent shading out of the lower branches.