Fruit tree pruning is a constant chore. Branches that are crossing (rubbing), shooting up (spouts), dead or dying must be removed on sight or problems grow and harm the tree. Suckers from the
root stock and those sprouting on superficial
roots need clipping at early stages. Now that spring is here, I carry around a pruner to catch each problem quickly.
The problem is, each time a new tree is clipped the pruners need to be disinfected so as not to spread disease. I use rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle or a blow torch atop a propane bottle to disinfect the pruners before moving to a new tree. This takes time and is tedious.
The solution? Maybe you have one and I’d love to hear it. For now, I’ll share mine. I fill a 16oz, hook-handled travel
coffee mug half-full with rubbing alcohol. I hook this DIY holster in my jeans or apron pocket then store the pruner in the alcohol mug as I move around the orchard. I must bend at the knees instead of the waist to pick things up to prevent spills but it is so much more efficient. I no longer need to stop my work for a separate cleaning step to prevent the spread of disease.
Enjoy this tip and if you have another strategy for keeping those pruners clean, please share.
