Thursday, July 14, 2011

Apple Tree Care

Spring flowers, summer shade and delicious fruit are just some of the wonderful benefits of owning an apple tree. These trees prefer dry, warm climates and moist, loamy soil. Fruit is produced by the pollination of the tree's flowers. Because many apple trees do not self-pollinate, a variety of apple trees that bloom at the same time need to be planted to encourage self-pollination and fruit production. An apple tree will usually bear fruit in its fourth or fifth year. Fruit comes in many sizes and colors and is best eaten right off the tree.

Best Time & Location to Plant - Apple trees are best planted in late fall or early spring, in a location with wind block to help the fruit from falling off before maturity.

Size of Tree - Apple trees can grow to about 40 feet, but also come in dwarf varieties which are easier to maintain.

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Apple Tree Care

Apple trees unfortunately are susceptible to many insect and disease issues and require special attention. By properly controlling insects and disease, fertilizing and regularly pruning the trees you can enjoy the beauty and fruit of this tree on your landscape for years.  



During the early spring and summer fungicide applications are essential to prevent disease and produce healthy, high quality fruit.
At the beginning of the growing season horticultural oils should also be used to smother scale insects and reduce over wintering populations of aphid and mite eggs.

All dead or diseased branches should be pruned, and any dried up apples, fallen leaves and plant debris should be removed away from trees.