How to prune acerola

After the final harvest of the season, before the next growth flush. Remove crossing, dead or inward-growing branches back to a lateral or main stem. Shorten longer shoots by up to one-third to promote dense, branching growth. Open the centre of the canopy to improve light and air penetration.

Annually after harvest; container plants may need light shaping mid-season. Acerola is a productive fruiting shrub that responds well to moderate pruning to keep it at a workable size and maintain fruit production. Prune after harvest to shape the canopy, remove weak or crossing branches, and allow light into the centre. In containers, regular shaping prevents it becoming leggy.

Remove crossing, dead or inward-growing branches back to a lateral or main stem. Shorten longer shoots by up to one-third to promote dense, branching growth. Open the centre of the canopy to improve light and air penetration.