SOIL

Soil depends on the rootstock the variety is grafted onto. Dwarf rootstocks require fertile, well draining soils. More vigorous rootstocks (M116 & M793) are suitable for heavy clay soils. 

SITE

Sunny sheltered sites are best. 

WATERING

Water well during the early stages, during long dry periods and when the fruit is developing.

CLIMATE

Apples are best in a temperate environment, but some varieties that have ‘low chill requirements’ can also be grown in warmer Northern areas. 

GENERAL CARE

Mulch in spring. Support the tree with stakes or framing if necessary. Thin the fruit in late Spring/early Summer. 

PESTS & DISEASES

Apples are particularly prone to canker, scab and powdery mildew. Some varieties require a spray program to control pests and diseases that affect the tree, leaves and fruit. Spring is the most important time for spraying for these. 

PLANTING IDEAS

Dwarf apple trees can be grown in large containers. Apple trees can also be espalier trained against a wall or fence. Ballerina® columnar varieties are fantastic planted in a row or in pots as garden or entry features. 

FRUIT

Apples are generally categorised based on the most suitable usage: as ‘eating/dessert’ and ‘cooking’ varieties. Harvest time is from February to April.

Trees on dwarf rootstocks will produce fruit within 2 years, others may take 3-4 years to produce any significant numbers of fruit. 

POLLINATION

In most residential areas Apples will often be pollinated by bees from nearby Apple and Crabapple trees. Some varieties are self fertile. 

TREE SIZE

The ultimate size of the tree depends on the rootstock the variety is grafteds onto, the site and the pruning & training of the tree. Dwarf trees can be kept to just 1.5m, while more vigorous trees can grow to 5-6m. 

RECOMMENDED PRUNING SYSTEM

Central leader or modified central leader.