Apple trees have been cultivated over several centuries because of the sweet, juicy fruits they produce. They are native to the Mediterranean, Central Asia, and Northeastern Asia. Apples are one of the oldest and most popular fruits grown worldwide. Apples trees are attractive and long-lasting with a single tree living up to thirty years.
The apple tree is a medium to large deciduous tree with spreading branches growing up to 20-40 feet in height and 15-30 feet in width. It has a single trunk and stout, branching limbs that divide at regular intervals. Its bark is brownish-grey and its leaves are toothed, lanceolate measuring 7-14 cm in length, with sometimes serrated margins. The flowers are white and very fragrant.
Apple trees require full sun and a moist, but well-drained soil for optimum growth and fruit production. They can be grown in zones 3 to 10, but will produce best in zones 5 to 8. They benefit from occasional pruning in the spring, fertilizing in the early spring and again in late summer, and thinning of fruit in early summer.
Harvesting of apples usually occurs in the fall with large, commercial orchards hand-picking all their fruit. Some orchards may shake their trees, thus encouraging apples to drop and then collect the apples off the ground. Some may also use ladders or use mechanical pickers. Apples that have rotted or been shaken from the tree are used for cider production.
The apple tree has a wide variety of uses. For example, the fruit can be used for baking pies, making cider, or drying for use in a variety of dishes. The wood of the tree is also useful for making furniture and can even be used for firewood. In addition, the flowers of the tree can be used for decoration, and apple blossom teas and essences can be made from them.
Apple trees can be a great asset in any garden, providing an abundant supply of sweet, juicy fruits and making a great addition to any outdoor space. With sensible pruning and regular maintenance, they will continue to produce fruit year after year, making them a true pleasure to have.
Types of Apples
Apple trees produce a wide variety of apples. These can be divided into two categories: eating apples and cooking apples. Eating apples are firm and crisp and can be eaten raw, with the most popular types being Red and Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, and Gala. Cookers, on the other hand, are soft and juicy, and are best used for baking, as they hold their shape better when cooked. Types of cooking apples include Braeburns, Bramleys, and McIntosh.
Diseases
Apple trees, like any other trees, are at risk of certain diseases. Common problems include fireblight, cedar apple rust, powdery mildews, and apple scab. These diseases can all be prevented with careful maintenance, such as pruning and spraying. If a disease does occur, it is important to act quickly, as infections can spread quickly and can be very difficult to treat once they have become established.
Pests
Apple trees are also vulnerable to pests, including aphids, codling moths, caterpillars and woolly aphids. As with diseases, these pests should be dealt with quickly, as they can spread rapidly and can have a significant impact on fruit production. Spraying with insecticidal soap or oils is generally effective at keeping them away.
Wild Apples
Although most of the apples eaten today are descended from cultivated varieties, it is possible to find wild apples growing in the wild in certain regions. These are usually smaller and tart in comparison to their cultivated cousins, but can still make a delicious addition to recipes.
Apple Nutrition
Apples are an excellent source of dietary fiber, vitamin C and potassium. They are also low in calories and contain no fat or cholesterol. Apples also contain polyphenols, which are antioxidants that can help protect against diseases.
