Growing apple trees in the home garden is fun and rewarding for the home gardener. Growing apple trees is relatively easy. However, a few factors should be considered before planting apple trees. Factors of growing apple trees are as follows:

Tips for Growing Apple Trees

Rootstocks

Apple trees that are sold commercially consists of two parts. The “scion” is the top portion that branches and bears fruit and is grafted onto a “rootstock”. The type of apple is determined by the scion variety. Some rootstocks produce a full size or standard apple tree and some others produce “Dwarfing” or smaller sized apple tree.

Varieties and Pollination

The highest quality fruit is harvested when cross-pollination occurs. So, you will need to plant at lease two varieties of apple trees together in order to maximize quality fruit production. You’ll also need to make sure that all the apple varieties cannot pollinate themselves or any flowers of the same apple variety. Some varieties, such as Winesap, Mutsu, Jonagold, and Stayman, produce sterile pollen and should never be used as pollinizers. However, pollen from other varieties can be used to pollinate these pollen-sterile varieties. Remember, two trees of the same apple variety cannot be used for cross-pollination. Cross pollination is really important for growing quality apple trees and quality apples.

Soil Test

You’ll need to take a soil test prior to planting apple trees. Apple trees can tolerate a wide range of soils as long as water and nutrients are not not limiting and soil pH is adequate. You should avoid poorly-drained soild and low spots, because apple trees cannot survie if water remains standing in the root zone.

Other Considerations

Growing pple trees require full sun. So, it should be planted where the trees will not be shaded from large trees or buildings. Do not plant trees near wooded areas or streams to avoid animal damage. Prior to planting, remove weeds either manually or with an approved herbicide that will not harm the young tree. If you are planting the tree in a lawn, remove the grass from the planting area in a 4-foot diameter circle. Grass competes with young trees for available water and nutrients, can significantly reduce tree growth and productivity. You know nutrients are very important for growing quality apple trees.

Enjoy Growing Apple Trees

That’s the tips for growing apple trees.