An apple tree is a deciduous tree that is widely cultivated for its fruit, the apple. It is thought that the apple tree originated in Asia, but the exact location is still unknown. The apple tree is a long-lived tree that can live up to 50 years under the right conditions. They are relatively easy to care for and propagate via grafting or budding. Apple trees are classified into four main types, which are the standard step-over, spur, espalier and semi-dwarf.
A step-over apple tree is a type of apple tree that is perfect for small gardens and spaces where a larger apple tree cannot be planted. Unlike other varieties, it is a single trunk tree with a low-spread head with branches that arch back and intertwine with each other. This creates a structure that prevents the tree from becoming too tall and creates a more compact size when grown. This type of apple tree usually grows to between 3 and 4 metres in height, with a spread of 4 to 6 metres.
The step-over apple tree received its name because it can easily be stepped over and does not need to be pruned or staked to keep it within bounds. This is a huge benefit for those who don’t have the time or inclination to maintain a larger apple tree. The step-over apple tree produces smaller apples than its larger cousins, but these apples are sweet and juicy. Many different types of apples can be found on a step-over apple tree, and the variety of apples available means that this tree is a great choice for home gardeners.
In order to produce good quality fruit from the step-over apple tree, it is important to choose a tree that is suited to your climate. Choose a variety of step-over apple tree that is self-fertile and suited to your climate. Ensure that the tree is watered properly and gets plenty of sunlight. Apples also need to be pruned in early spring to remove dead and diseased wood, and to stimulate growth and fruiting. It is also important to thin the flowers and fruit in late spring to ensure that the apples that are produced are large and flavoursome.
With the right care and attention, the step-over apple tree can be a great addition to your garden and a great source of tasty apples. In order to ensure that your tree produces the best fruit possible, make sure you choose the right variety for your climate and make sure that you fertilise and water consistently. Good luck and happy apple tree growing!
The Root System of Step Over Apple Trees
The roots of step-over apple trees are typically compact when in comparison to other varieties of apple trees. This is largely due to their low-arching branches and single-trunked growth which encourages the more condensed root systems. The root system of step over apple trees is composed of fibrous root systems that grow laterally in order to absorb nutrients from the surrounding area.
This is advantageous for the step-over apple tree as it allow the tree to grow vigorously and make efficient use of the surrounding soil. Additionally, the step-over apple tree’s shallow root systems are not detrimental to the health of the surrounding terrain and may help balance the ecosystem of the soil.
The exposed root system also allows for easy harvest of fruits from a step-over apple tree as it can provide easier access to the lower hanging fruits. Step-over apple trees are relatively easy to harvest as their shorter stature and root system makes it easier to access the fruits more so than other apple tree varieties.
Fungal diseases can also be less of a problem for the step-over apple tree as the fungus that typically affects apple trees is avoided in these smaller root systems as fungi require humid and wet conditions.
Harvesting Apples from a Step-Over Apple Tree
The smaller size of the step-over apple tree makes it much easier to harvest apples than standard apple trees. With its low-arching branches, reaching the lower hanging fruits of the tree is much easier than for standard apple trees. This makes the step-over apple tree a great option for those who want to grow apples in their backyard but don’t want the hassle of pruning and maintaining a larger tree.
When harvesting apples from a step-over apple tree, it is important to use the correct technique in order to ensure that the apples are not damaged. When harvesting, start at the bottom of the tree and gently grasp the apples in your hand and twist gently. Try to avoid plucking the apples directly off the branch as this can damage the branch and reduce the amount of apples produced in the future.
When collecting the apples, be careful to not over-harvest the tree at once. There should be a balance between leaving some apples on the tree to achieve maximum growth and ripeness, while still taking away enough apples to prevent the tree from overbearing.
The best time to harvest apples from a step-over apple tree is usually towards the end of summer when the apple is ripe and starting to turn colour. Apples can be easily stored for several weeks if placed in a cool area, or can be used straight away for baking or cider making.
Pest Control for Step-Over Apple Trees
Step-over apple trees are not immune from the pests and diseases that many other apple tree varieties experience. The smaller size of the step-over apple tree makes it an ideal habitat for many varieties of insect and fungal diseases. However, there are some simple steps that can be taken in order to better protect the tree from attack.
The best way to protect the step-over apple tree from pests and diseases is to regularly inspect the tree for signs of damage. Check all parts of the tree, including the trunk, branches and leaves, and examine the fruits closely. Early detection of pests and diseases can help prevent their spread and reduce the amount of damage to the tree.
For more severe cases of pests, an insecticide or fungicide can be used in order to protect the tree. Always use the correct safety equipment when applying any form of chemical treatment, and if in doubt, contact a professional pest control expert. For organic gardeners, companion planting can be used to attract beneficial insects that feed on pests and diseases.
To ensure that the tree is healthy, it is also important to fertilise and water regularly. Regular pruning and training of the step-over apple tree will also help promote healthy growth and keep the tree in check.
Common Diseases Affecting Step-Over Apple Trees
Step-over apple trees can be prone to fungal diseases such as apple scab, powdery mildew, and sooty mould. Apples scab causes spotting and staining on the leaves and fruit, while powdery mildew leaves a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Sooty mould leaves a black coating on the leaves and can have a detrimental effect on the health of the tree if left untreated.
One way to avoid these diseases is to select a variety of step-over apple tree that is disease-resistant. Disease-resistant varieties can be identified by looking for a proclaimed scab-resistance. Planting your step-over apple tree in an area with adequate air circulation and sunshine will also help to avoid the spread of fungal diseases.
If you find any signs of disease on your step-over apple tree, it is important to act quickly in order to contain the problem. If the disease is mild, then spraying with a fungicide can help to stop the progression of the disease. For cases of more severe disease, it may be necessary to remove the affected branches or even the whole tree in order to prevent the spread of the disease.
It is also important to keep any tools and equipment used on the step-over apple tree clean, and to regularly prune the tree in order to stimulate new, healthy growth. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your step-over apple tree remains healthy and disease free.
Fertilising Step-Over Apple Trees
Fertilising is an important part of keeping a step-over apple tree healthy and producing a good harvest of apples. The best time to fertilise step-over apple trees is in the spring when the tree starts to grow again. It is recommended that a balanced fertiliser, such as a 10-10-10 mix, be used for fertilising the tree.
When applying fertiliser, it is important to spread it evenly around the base of the tree. This can be done by hand or with a garden spreader, and it should be lightly raked into the soil. Avoid applying the fertiliser too close to the trunk of the tree as this can damage the roots.
Once the fertiliser has been applied, it is important to water the soil in order to release the nutrients and help them absorb into the soil. The soil should be kept moist but not soggy in order to prevent root rot. A general rule of thumb is to water the tree twice a week for a total of two inches of water.
Adding mulch around the base of the tree is also beneficial for the step over apple tree. Not only does it help to retain moisture and provide nutrients, it also helps to suppress weed growth and can help protect the root system from pests and diseases.
Conclusion
The step-over apple tree is a great choice for gardeners with limited space who want to enjoy the taste and convenience of homegrown apples. They are relatively easy to care for and require minimal maintenance, and they are well-suited to small spaces and gardens. With adequate care and attention, a step-over apple tree can provide a healthy supply of sweet, juicy apples for years to come.
