Basically, an apple tree in the garden does not require an exceptional amount of care. However, with care measures such as targeted tree pruning, tree he alth and the yield of the apple tree can be increased.
How do I care for an apple tree in the garden?
Caring for an apple tree includes targeted pruning of the tree crown, regular watering, especially in dry periods, fertilizing with compost and slow-release fertilizers, and avoiding over-fertilization. A well-cared for apple tree promotes a productive and he althy harvest.
Do you have to water an apple tree?
Basically, the natural rain and the moisture stored in the soil should be sufficient all year round to supply the apple tree with water via its fine roots. However, during hot, dry periods during the summer, it can have a positive effect on the expected harvest if the apple tree is watered extensively every three to four days. Daily watering would be rather harmful as it can lead to waterlogging in the root area of the apple tree.
Can you transplant an apple tree?
The most successful way to plant a young apple seedling from a pot outdoors is in the fall. The following things should be prepared:
- a spade for digging the hole in the ground
- Compost for fertilizing the planting hole
- Watering water for watering the planted tree
With older apple trees, the ball must be dug out large enough so that as few of the fine hairy roots as possible are injured. In addition, an older tree can usually only survive after transplanting with strong rejuvenation pruning.
When and how do you prune an apple tree?
The most important pruning of the apple tree should be done in winter, when it is in the so-called sap dormancy between December and March. However, if there are a lot of water shoots, summer pruning is also helpful in order to be able to direct as much energy as possible into the development of the fruit. When pruning in autumn, fruit mummies are removed and errors from previous pruning are corrected.
How do you fertilize an apple tree?
Over-fertilization of the apple tree should be avoided as it can lead to excessive shoot growth and damage to the apples. It makes sense to add compost around the trunk and supplement it with long-term fertilizers such as horn shavings (€32.00 on Amazon).
Tips & Tricks
The most important care measure for the apple tree is to create a light and well-ventilated tree crown through targeted pruning. In this way, diseases and fungal infestations can be regulated in a natural way.
