A Garden Guide to Growing Apples

A Garden Guide To Growing Apples

Probably the most popular fruit tree for the backyard orchard, apple trees come in a number of varieties that are well suited to just about any space. A single tree can yield enough fruit for the whole family to enjoy, and provide a shady corner for relaxation, while a row of trees can make an attractive and fruitful privacy screen.

Choosing Varieties

Apple trees come in three sizes: dwarf, semi-dwarf, and standard. Dwarf and semi-dwarf trees are most popular for backyard cultivation, because their manageable size fits into smaller areas and because their compact growing habit makes harvesting easier. Dwarf trees reach a mature height of 5' to 8'. Semi-dwarf trees grow to 12' to 16' feet, while standard trees reach 20' to 30'. Standard and semi-dwarf trees are hardier and require less support than dwarf trees.

Size is not the only thing to consider when selecting apple varieties. Apple trees are prone to a number of diseases, but selecting disease resistant varieties can circumvent the most common problems. Most varieties of apples require a pollinator, which means you must plan to include two or more trees into your landscape, but there are a few self-pollinating varieties that will produce fruit on their own.

Apples come in a wide range of tastes, from the very sweet Delicious varieties to tart Mutsu and Granny Smith. Sample fruit from different varieties, and think about what you plan to do with your harvest when making your selection.

Finally, take into account the fruiting season of each variety. Apples come in early, mid-season and late ripening cultivars. If you are planting more than one tree, consider selecting trees from each category to prolong your harvest.

Planting

Apples are available in bare root and potted plants. Regardless of which you choose, look for a plant that is 1 to 2 years old. Older trees may look more attractive because they are bigger, but younger trees are easier to get established in the garden.