The fruit is developed on spurs formed by branchlets of three or more years to growth, the tree yielding for many years thereafter. If given proper care, apple trees should begin to bear decent quantities of fruit in 4 to 6 years. Use of dwarfing rootstocks can result in earlier bearing.
Apples grow best where there is cold in winter, moderate summer temperatures, and medium to high humidity.
Ample winter chilling and a relatively dry growing season allow for a greater number of varieties to be grown with less fungal and bacterial disease pressure.
Apple trees prefer deep, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.0 in order to survive and flourish. Mounding the earth to create a berm (3 feet) is an excellent idea if there is not enough space/depth where the tree is to be planted.
Fertilizer of the soil and periodic pruning and thinning of apple trees are considered necessary for good apple crops. The purpose of pruning a young tree is to control its shape by developing a strong, well balanced framework of scaffold branches.
Periodically (about every 3 years) soil pH should be checked. The soil test report will indicate if additional liming is required.
In areas of poor drainage, roots will die resulting in stunted growth and eventual death of the tree. Conversely, apple trees will also perform poorly on droughty soils.
Apples are strongly cross pollinated, so more than one variety with overlapping bloom dates (similar chilling requirements) are necessary for good fruit production.
Planting apple
Periodically (about every 3 years) soil pH should be checked. The soil test report will indicate if additional liming is required.
In areas of poor drainage, roots will die resulting in stunted growth and eventual death of the tree. Conversely, apple trees will also perform poorly on droughty soils.
Apples are strongly cross pollinated, so more than one variety with overlapping bloom dates (similar chilling requirements) are necessary for good fruit production.
Planting apple
