An apple tree is a deciduous tree that grows typically to a height of around 15–30 feet. After seven years of development, the following can be observed:
The trunk of the tree will have thickened and will stand at a height of 10–20 feet. This is mainly due to a continuous process of the tree producing new layers of bark over the old layers as it grows. The trunk will also show signs of old growth, in the form of bark fading to a darker color on the lower portion of the tree.
The branches of the tree will also be more numerous and will be spaced further apart from each other. The branches will hang more from the higher parts of the tree, displaying a more open crown. The branches will reach outwards at various angles and will display a variety of curvatures.
The leaves of the tree will be more plentiful and will grow to a greater size. The leaves will also show the typical serrated shape of the apple tree. The leaves will also darken in color over time, turning to a deep green.
The fruit of the tree will be numerous and will typically grow in clusters of two to five near the tips of the branches. The fruit will also become larger and develop a deep red color. The fruit will also have a slightly tart taste.
The roots of the tree will also have spread out and will become more extensive over time. This is mainly due to the tree needing to establish itself firmly into the soil to survive. The roots will also support the tree and provide it sustenance.
In conclusion, after 7 years, an apple tree will have grown and developed into an established specimen. It will have a thicker trunk, with more numerous and further spaced branches that reach outwards. The leaves and fruit will also be larger and more in number, displaying a deep red color as well as a slightly tart taste. In addition, the roots of the tree will have spread out and become more deeply established into the soil.
General Development
Throughout the seven-year period, an apple tree will develop and mature, with each year of its development enhancing its characteristics. As it grows and matures, its trunk will thicken and its branches and roots spread out, giving it better stability. Its leaves and its fruits will also increase in size and become more numerous.
The tree’s canopy will also become larger and more open, giving it an appealing shape. This can be noticed by the branches reaching outwards at different angles and the u-shaped curvatures they may display. This creates an aesthetic display of the apple tree.
In addition, the leaves and fruit of the tree will gradually turn darker and both will become more flavorful and sweet. When the seven years is up, the leaves of the tree will be a deep green and the fruit will be deep red, sweet, and acidic in flavor.
The general development of an apple tree should not be overlooked. Over the course of seven years, it can easily transform into a magnificent specimen and a beautiful addition to the landscape.
Social Characteristics
An apple tree is more than just a beautiful sight and it often develops social characteristics. These traits can help the tree to be accepted into its local environment, as other species recognize it as part of their habitat.
A fully grown apple tree, with its wide and open canopy, can provide a space for birds and other native wildlife. The birds can use the tree as a resting place and can also nest within its shade. This can further strengthen the relationship between the apple tree and its local environment.
In addition, apple trees are a popular and commonly found species, meaning that other wildlife that lives nearby is accustomed to their presence. This can help the tree to become a hub of sorts; attracting pollinators, other birds, and other species of animals to its vicinity.
The social characteristics of an apple tree help to enrich an environment. This is especially true after the seven-year development period. At this point, the tree has matured and become an established part of its local environment.
Areas of Adoption
An apple tree has become an increasingly popular species, being adopted by a variety of spaces. This includes both domestically, in gardens and parks, and agriculturally, on farms and orchards.
The tree’s size and spectacular shape make it ideal for residential gardens and public parks. It also provides many benefits to activities that occur in these areas. This is because it produces apples that can then be consumed, either fresh or for the purpose of making juices and ciders.
In addition, the tree is a commonly adopted species by farms, where large amounts of apples can be grown for use as a cash crop. These apples can then be sold for commercial use, such as for making products such as apple sauce and apple pie.
After seven years, an apple tree is an excellent candidate for adoption, as it is well developed in terms of size and shape. In addition, the tree provides many benefits, either domestically or agriculturally.
Pest Management
The long time frame of seven years also makes an apple tree a primary target for pests. The tree may become subject to damage or easier to become diseased. This is because it is an attractive host as it has now grown and matured.
Common pests of apple trees include apple maggots and leaf miners. The former of these feed on the apples of the tree, making them unsellable, while the latter bore into the leaves of the tree and create a sawdust-like substance that is detritus.
Other pests that may attack an apple tree after its seven year development period include aphids, plum curculio, and scale insects. All of these can cause damage to the tree in the form of weakened branches and areas of discoloration.
Pest management is important to ensure that an apple tree can remain healthy after its 7-year development period. This can involve using traps and netting, as well as natural solutions such as biopesticides.
Fruit Production
An apple tree also produces fruit over the course of its seven-year development phase. The fruit of an apple tree is harvested for a variety of purposes, whether for consumption at home or for industrial use in the production of apple products.
In the seven-year development period, the size and quantity of the fruit will have increased. This is because the tree will have grown and developed its canopy, allowing it to produce more apples and of a larger variety.
The apples produced by a mature apple tree will be numerous, and will display a red or yellow/golden color, along with a distinctive flavor. An apple tree that is seven years old will, typically, have reached a point where it is producing the most fruit.
The production of fruit is an important aspect of an apple tree’s seven-year development period. At this point, the tree will have reached a point of maturity where it is producing fruit consistently and in large amounts.
