Apple tree sprouts, which appear after the apple tree has been planted, are small, bright green shoots approximately one to two inches in length. Apple tree sprouts have a slightly tapered end, making it easy to distinguish them from other plants. The leaves of an apple tree sprout are simple, ovate and serrated. They feature two distinct veins running across their surface. Apple tree sprouts will eventually become the trunk of the tree and the root system, so it is important to provide them with the best nutritional start possible.
Apple tree sprouts may contain either one or two buds, depending on the variety of the tree. These buds can appear at the tip of a newly forming stem or along an older shoot. When the small bud opens, it features overlapping, oval-shaped petals. The petals can range in color from white to pink or even a mix of both. Eventually, these petals will form the apple blooms.
Apple tree sprouts need full sun and well-drained soil to thrive. It is also important to add soil amendments such as compost before planting an apple tree sprout. When the sprout is planted it is important to give the roots some form of support so they will stay upright. This can be done with wire cages or stakes. While many apple trees require pruning and fertilizing to thrive, some newer varieties are self-fertilizing and require a minimum of maintenance.
Apple tree sprouts can be found at most nurseries and online retailers. It is recommended to purchase saplings if possible. Saplings are less likely to be infected with pests and diseases and are easier to transplant. When transplanting apple tree sprouts, it is important to water regularly and provide the right amount of sunlight.
With the right amount of care and attention, an apple tree sprout can quickly develop into a healthy specimen of the apple species.
Development of the Apple Tree Sprout
Once a sprout has been planted, the development process begins. The bark of the newly planted apple tree sprout develops quickly and can turn from a pale to a dark brown hue depending on the variety. At the same time, the roots begin to form and the leaves become larger and more oval shaped. Over the course of the following week, flowers will begin to appear on the Apple tree sprout.
The flowers of the apple tree sprout can range in color, duration, and size. There can be single or multiple blooms on a single branch and the colors range from classic white to vibrant pink. The flowering stage of the apple tree sprout typically runs between the months of April and June.
After the flowering stage is over, it is not uncommon for small balls of fruit to appear. As time progresses, the fruit of the apple tree sprout will begin to form in earnest. Depending on the variety, apples on the tree sprout can vary in size, shape, and color.
Growth is typically completed and the bark of the apple tree sprout begins to darken by late summer. By this time, the roots should be well established and the fruit should be beginning to ripen. Apple tree sprout that are not pruned may reach heights of 20 feet.
Fertilizing Apple Tree Sprouts
Fertilizer is an important part of a healthy apple tree. Fertilizer helps apple tree sprouts to grow stronger and increases the quantity and sweetness of the apples. Garden stores carry several types of fertilizer, so it is important to read the labels and select the best variety for the types of apples being grown.
It is important to do a soil assessment before fertilizer is added to the soil. Soil can be tested through a local agricultural extension office. Knowing the balance of the soil can help determine the right fertilizer and amount to add. While fertilizer helps, it is important to remember that there is no substitute for providing a healthy, well-drained habitat for an apple tree sprout.
For maximum results and health, it is important to fertilize an apple tree sprout every year. This should be done shortly after the flowering stage and should involve a granular fertilizer of approximately 6-10-4 analysis. This fertilizer should be spread around the apple tree in a band about six inches away from the trunk.
It is also important to periodically monitor the tree for signs of distress or iron deficiency. Iron deficiency is indicated by pale green leaves, though this can also be caused by other health problems as well. If iron deficiency is suspected, it can be corrected with the use of spring and fall applications of chelated iron.
Common Mistakes with Apple Tree Sprouts
When planting an apple tree sprout, one of the most common mistakes is to plant the tree in poor soil conditions. Soil should be sandy and well-drained with a pH between 6 and 7. Poor drainage can lead to a lack of oxygen to the roots, which will kill the tree. The tree should also be planted away from sloping land, as this can lead to erosion.
Another mistake often made when planting an apple tree sprout is not providing enough sunlight. The tree needs at least six hours of sun per day. Shade should not be present for more than a few hours during the day. Providing the wrong amount of sunshine can lead to a lack of flowering and a decrease in fruit.
Finally, one of the most important but often overlooked aspects of maintaining an apple tree is pruning. Pruning the tree removes dead or diseased branches and keeps the shape of the tree in an ideal condition. This will help the tree develop strong and provide an abundance of fruit.
Pests and Diseases
Most apple trees can suffer from pests, diseases, or environmental issues. It is important to stay proactive in monitoring the tree for signs of trouble. Some common pests that can affect apple tree sprouts are apple maggots, aphids, and codling moths. Diseases such as apple scab, canker, and blackspot can also effect the tree.
The best way to eliminate these issues from developing is to inspect the tree weekly. If signs of pests or disease are noticed, it is important to act quickly by pruning the tree and spraying with an insecticide or fungicide. This will keep the tree in the best health and allow it to produce an abundance of apples.
It is also important to avoid wetting the leaves when watering. Wet leaves can lead to disease and thrips, which cause the leaves to become dry and die off. If the leaves of the apple tree turn yellow or curl, this is likely due to sunburn or moisture imbalance.
Another issue that can affect the health of an apple tree is drought. During periods of drought, water is necessary to keep the tree healthy. Trees should be watered at least once a week to ensure that the roots have enough moisture. If the tree is not watered enough, it may become stunted and be less productive.
Harvesting the Apples
When it is time to harvest the apples from an apple tree sprout, it is important to act quickly. Apples should be picked when they are deep red and firm. If the fruit is slightly soft, it will quickly break down and become unripened and can even lead to the infection of other apples.
It is also important to use the correct harvesting tools. Hand pruners and ladders are important for safely picking the apples. Apple picking bags can also come in handy to help keep apples off the ground, away from animals, and prevent bruising.
Finally, it is important to consider food safety when harvesting apples. It is important to wash the fruit in between picking and to avoid eating any apples with signs of mold, weird textures, or odd colorations.
Picking and caring for apple tree sprouts is both rewarding and fun. As long as the tree is given the proper amounts of sunlight, water and nutrients, it can provide a bountiful harvest of sweet and delicious apples.
