Content
- The apple tree and its main features
- Select the right variety for a location
- No fruit for a big harvest without care
- Waterlogging does not like apple trees
- Tips & Tricks
The apple tree and its main features
Most varieties of the apple tree place their location and the respective factors such as light and weather no particularly high demands. However, the typical properties of the apple tree provide valuable insights for selection and care.
Select the right variety for a location
When choosing a new apple tree to be planted, there are many choices available. The most important features are:
In a garden surrounded by high hedges, the planting of a tree with a high trunk is ideal, so that the crown can be well ventilated by the wind and thus protected against fungal attack.
No fruit for a big harvest without care
Although an apple tree is basically a rather uncomplicated fruit tree, it nevertheless requires annual interventions and care measures for vitality and a rich harvest. This includes, for example, a regular cut in the months of hibernation from January to February. Care should be taken not only on the shape of a light and air permeable treetop, but also on a stable orientation of the respective branches. In the summer cut, mistakes can be corrected and shoots that shoot vertically upwards, so that the energy of the apple tree can be channeled into the ripening fruit.
Waterlogging does not like apple trees
Apple trees tolerate dry periods of one or two weeks in summer. However, they do not like it despite their rather shallow roots when the soil is permanently wet. In sinks, therefore, deeper dug and a drainage layer should be first introduced when the apple tree is planted. Too dense treetop and a sheltered location can lead to infestation with mildew, especially in the case of varieties that are not sufficiently resistant.
Tips & Tricks
Old apple varieties in a region are often optimally adapted to the respective microclimate. You can usually ask such special varieties from fruit growers and the local horticultural club.