Apple Tree Growth Characteristics
Apple trees are a hardy, deciduous tree species known for their fragrant blooms and sweet, edible fruit. In order to understand how long an apple tree typically takes to grow, it is important to know some of their growth characteristics. Apple trees typically take 4-7 years to establish their root systems, allowing for it to produce its first fruit. Once mature, apple trees grow at a moderate to slow rate. Depending on the variety, apple trees are usually between 8-20 feet tall and about 15 feet wide. The trunk of an apple tree will grow 1-2 feet in diameter.
Location
The amount of time an apple tree takes to grow can be affected by its location. Apple trees thrive in locations with a well-drained soil, full sun exposure, and nutrient-rich soil. If an apple tree is planted in wet, waterlogged soil, it will take much longer for the tree to establish its root systems, therefore delaying its production of fruit. Whereas an apple tree planted in the ideal location can take several years less to reach maturity.
Care and Maintenance
A well-maintained apple tree is one that will reach its fruition quicker. Routine garden maintenance such as weeding, pruning and mulching can help ensure the tree’s root systems stay well aerated and healthy. An apple tree needs to be provided with adequate amounts of water and fertilization , unless the soil is already nutrient rich. The amount of sunlight the apple tree receives will play a big role in how quickly it grows to maturity.
When to Plant
The type of climate and weather conditions the apple tree is exposed to will also influence its growth. If you live in a northern climate, early spring is the best time to plant an apple tree. Otherwise, late winter or early fall is best. Winter frost is less of an issue for trees in southern climates, so apple trees can be planted in either early spring or early fall in this region.
Fruit Harvest
After an apple tree is planted, it will typically take about four years before it will begin to produce fruit. This year of harvest varies greatly depending on the type of apple tree, its location, and the care put into it. For example, a semi-dwarf apple tree can reach its first harvest in as little as two or three years but will take four or five years for an ornamental apple tree.
Cultivar
The type of apple tree cultivar plays a large role in how long it takes to reach maturity. Some apple tree cultivars produce fruit more quickly than others. For instance, a columnar apple tree cultivar can reach its full growth in as little as three or four years while an espalier apple tree cultivar may take an additional year or two before it begins producing fruit.
Growing Conditions
Weather conditions, soil fertility, and care play a huge role in the growth of apple trees. Extreme amounts of hot or cold can delay the growth of an apple tree, so it is important to plant them in areas with temperate climates. Trees also need to be kept away from areas that receive heavy frosts or freezing temperatures. If the soil is not nutrient-rich, it is important to fertilize regularly to help the apple tree’s growth. Finally, it is ideal to prune and care for an apple tree regularly in order to ensure it grows quickly and healthily.
Disease, Pests, and Predators
Apple trees can be affected by a variety of plant diseases and insect pests, as well as larger animals. Plant diseases can cause the apple tree’s growth to slow while insect pests can reduce fruit yields. Badly affected apple trees may also suffer from sun scald, close contact with competing plants, and drought stress, all of which can delay their growth. Larger animals may also feed on the apples or damage the bark and branches, leading to slower growth and reduced yields. Protecting your apple tree from these potential threats can help it to reach maturity more quickly.
