Should I prune my fruit trees?

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Fruit trees are extremely popular in edible gardening, but most people don't realize the amount of care they need. They often need to be fertilized and watered regularly, managed for pests and diseases, and pruned yearly. If you plant a peach tree and don't prune it, you'll end up with tall, out-of-reach branches that go straight up which can be difficult to correct. Learn about the techniques used and what you should be doing during the dormant season.
Peaches and Nectarine pruning systems:
At planting - prune to 18-24 inches above ground level
Open vase - 3-4 limbs evenly spaced around
Summer pruning - remove vigorous growing branches and remove foliage to allow light in
Plum pruning systems:
Open vase
Modified leader system - select lateral branches
Apple and pear pruning systems:
Modified leader with 5-7 scaffold limbs equally spaced and prop limbs out