Plant Profile: Apples

Apple:

            General info: Apple trees (Malus pumila) are the most popular and widely grown fruit tree in America. Most apple trees require cross-pollination with another variety. On average, apple trees will grow to 10-15’ tall and 5-10’ wide.

           

            Landscape uses: Specimen or shade tree

           

            Ornamental qualities: Showy pinkish-white blossoms in spring; interesting tree form

           

            Planting: Plant in full sun. Early morning sun is important to help dry the leaves and reduce the chance of disease. Well-drained soil is necessary. If necessary, cut off any broken or mutilated roots, otherwise keep root pruning to a minimum. Plant the same depth as grown in the nursery. When the hole is half filled, firm the soil with your feet before filling the rest of the way. Pack the soil firmly. Do not leave a depression around the tree. Water well after planting to help eliminate air pockets.

           

            Pruning: Apples need to be pruned into a vase shaped tree with an open center to promote good air circulation and to let sunlight in. This helps reduce the chance for disease, and makes it easier to harvest the fruit. Pruning should be done during mid-February.

First remove dead, diseased, broken, and low hanging limbs. Do not allow the tree to form a dominant central leader. Prune out any crossing braches growing back towards the center, and any vigorous, upright shoots that developed from the inside of the main branches. You can think of the tree being pruned to look like your hand with your palm facing up, cupped, and fingers spread. Pruning may also be done in the summer after fruit harvest.

            Approximately 4 weeks after bloom, thin out the apples so there is about 6” between each fruit. Removal of excess fruit is necessary to ensure proper ripening and to reduce limb breakage.

           

            Fertilizing/Watering: Fertilize in spring and summer. Keep fertilizer at least 6” from the trunk and do not dump large amounts in small areas. (Root burn may occur.)

Varieties:

            Anna: Low chill requirement. Light greenish-yellow skin with slight red blush. Large size fruit. Sweet, slightly tart, crisp, creamy white flesh. Stores well. Needs pollinator.

           

            Dorsett: Golden apple tree. Yellow skin with an orange-red blush. Medium to large fruit. Firm, smooth, crisp flesh with a sweet and tart flavor. Needs pollinator.

            Ein Shemer: Large, Golden Delicious type. Crisp, tart flavor. Good quality flesh. Very productive. Needs pollinator.