A neglected, overgrown, old apple tree does have charm, its gnarled, elbowed branches seemingly reaching out for a hug. The fruits, unfortunately, are more often than not too small, too high and too pest-ridden.
But don’t despair: Such a tree can be returned to its former glory by “renovation,” as corrective pruning of an old tree is called.
Before picking up a pruning tool, ask yourself whether the effort involved in renovating a tree will be justified.