From sweet to sour – apples come in an impressive variety of flavors. If each family member loves a different type of apple, it would be perfect to be able to harvest different types from a single tree. We will clarify whether this is possible in this guide.
Can an apple tree bear several types of apples?
Ifseveral apple varieties are grafted onto one rootstock, different apple varieties will thrive on one apple tree. The fruits also ripen one after the other, so you can enjoy apples straight from the tree from late summer to autumn.
What is special about a family apple tree?
These fruit trees grow up tofive orevensix apple varietiesonone tree. A special finishing technique is required for this.
When growing multi-fruit apple trees, a seedling is shortened about 50 centimeters above the ground and the scions are grafted onto the side. The roots and trunk of the base support the refined side branches that form the crown. These fruit trees are also very attractive visually, due to the different colors of the fruits.
What are the advantages of a multi-fruit apple tree?
The multi-fruit apple tree is structured in such a way that thecombined varietiesdirectly bring along asuitable pollinator.
The family trees also offer other advantages:
- In many gardens there is not enough space for two or three types of apples. A multi-fruit apple tree offers apples that are suitable for immediate consumption as well as varieties that store well.
- The harvest time of the apple varieties varies, so you can snack on fruit straight from the tree from summer to autumn.
Does an apple tree with several varieties need to be cared for differently?
Thecareof the multi-fruit apple treedoes not differ from that of apple trees that only bear one variety.
- Plant the fruit tree in a sunny location and give it enough space.
- When pruning, make sure never to shorten the branches below the grafting point.
- Water the tree during longer dry periods and ensure that the nutrient needs of the family tree are optimally met through balanced fertilization.
How big does a multi-fruit apple tree get?
The height and crown diameter of this fruit tree, like any other apple tree,depends onwhether it is on aslow-growingormedium-growing rootstock were refined. That's why there is a large selection of apple trees that bear several types of apples, even for small gardens.
Tip
Finding the perfect family apple tree
Since these trees score points with a wide variety of variety combinations, you should consider which flavors you prefer before purchasing. It is also important whether you want to enjoy all the apples fresh from the tree or store and cook them.
