Even after several decades, suitable apple varieties can still produce an extensive and tasty harvest. However, it is sometimes beneficial to rejuvenate an apple tree with care measures for vitality and yield.
How to rejuvenate an old apple tree?
To rejuvenate an old apple tree, you should trim the tree crown regularly, prevent pests and diseases and, if necessary, re-graft the tree. An even, light tree crown and winter pruning promote the fruit yield and the he alth of the tree.
Protecting the old apple tree from vulnerability
By choosing the right variety for a specific location, you are laying the foundation for the long life of the apple tree. An apple tree should get enough sunlight and not be in waterlogged soil so that it is protected from diseases such as powdery mildew and other fungal infestations. In older specimens, occasional bumps and cracks in the bark are nothing unusual, but larger areas with exposed wood should be sealed with suitable means (€17.00 on Amazon) to protect against the ingress of pests.
Maintain the shape of the tree crown with regular cuts
Ideally, the first topiary pruning of the young apple tree should begin immediately upon planting. If pruning has been neglected for a few years, undesirable water shoots and other growths on the tree crown can occur. For tree he alth and a good fruit yield, it can make sense if you thin out the apple tree generously. You should pay attention to the following factors:
- not to produce horizontally upward interfaces in which rainwater collects
- to form an even and light tree crown
- Branches should extend from the leading branches at an angle of at least 45 degrees
- Prevent tree desiccation through winter pruning
Re-grafting an old apple tree
Sometimes it can happen that an old apple variety suddenly no longer produces a satisfactory yield in one location. If the problem is not due to a lack of pruning or waterlogging, you may be able to give the old apple tree a new lease of life by grafting on another apple variety.
Tips & Tricks
Local fruit and horticultural associations can advise you on choosing suitable regional varieties for your place of residence if you want to graft a scion onto an old apple tree for rejuvenation.
