I have an apricot tree that is 4 or 5 years old. It is doing well, but one of the main branches has a weak crotch and included bark. My peach tree had the same problem, and got split in a wind storm last year. So I wanted to proactively take care of the problem with the apricot.
The weak crotch can be seen here:
It is the branch on the right side.
My question is: Should I prune that branch back heavily to prepare to take it off next pruning season? I think the other branches are now thick enough and developed enough that the shape of the tree won't be hurt too much. Suggestions and comments are welcome.