Growing your own apples can be a rewarding hobby and investment. Knowing when to plant apple tree seedlings is essential for successful growth. Planting at the wrong time can stunt growth, destroy the tree, or even lead to the death of the tree. Therefore, it’s important to research which planting practices in your region are safe and successful for apple trees.
Apple trees can be planted in the fall or spring, depending on the region. Soil temperature is the most important factor when considering when to plant them. In the fall, select a day in mid-autumn after the chance of frost has subsided. If planting in spring, wait ’til the danger of frost is over. Aim for budding time in spring. This is usually around April but can depend on where you live.
Dig a hole 2 to 3 times the size of the root ball of the baby tree. Create a cone-shaped mound of soil in the center of the hole that elevates the tree above it. Spread the roots of the tree around the mound, making sure the base of the tree is even with the top of the mound. Fill the hole with dirt and lightly pack it around the roots.
Water the tree immediately after planting and then several times a day for the first few weeks. To keep the tree consistently moist, create a watering tube. Dig a small trench about two inches deep around the trunk of the tree, at a distance of about 8” from the trunk. Make sure the trench has a slight slope to it and fill it with leaf mulch and organic matter. A couple of times a week, fill the trench with water.
Once the tree is firmly planted and watered, apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer to ensure it grows healthy. As the tree develops over its first few years, you can prune it to shape. Proper pruning will help to promote healthy growth and structure.
Apple Tree Planting in Autumn
When planting apple trees in the autumn, aim for mid-autumn when frost is unlikely. A range of pollinator species will be available for pollination and the temperature will be moderate. For a successful autumn planting season, allow several weeks for preparation before planting. Carefully select the type of apple tree – research which varieties will grow well in your area. Choose a spot that has well-draining soil, good air circulation and plenty of sunlight. Clear away any weeds, or debris that could disrupt the growth of your tree.
Dig a hole 2 to 3 times the size of the root ball of your tree and use a mound in the centre of the hole to support them. Then water and fertilise the tree as described above. Provide adequate protection against the cold weather as winter approaches and keep your newly planted apple tree well-watered until the spring arrives.
By following these steps, you can have success in autumn planting of your apple tree. Good preparation and planning will ensure your apple tree can thrive for many years to come.
Apple Tree Planting in Spring
Spring is a popular season for planting apple trees. Soil temperature is the most important factor when planting in the spring. Buds should be swollen on the trees before you plant your apple tree seedling, as it will allow it to settle in its new environment quickly. Aim for budding time in spring, which is usually April. Consider the size of the tree when selecting a space for the planting. Ultimately, the more space you can give your tree the better.
Once you’ve selected the location and tree, you’ll need to dig the hole 2 to 3 times the size of the root ball of your tree. Place the tree in the hole and dig a watering channel around the base of the tree. Fill the’ channel with leaf mulch, organic matter and water twice a week. This will help to keep the tree consistently moist.
Finally, don’t forget to fertilize the tree and prune it regularly. A nitrogen-rich fertilizer will ensure a healthy growth. Pruning will help to promote healthy growth and structure.
Preventing Frost Damage for Newly Planted Apple Trees
Whether planting in the fall or spring, the risk of frost damage is a concern for newly planted apple trees. The best way to protect young apple trees from frost damage is to wrap the trunk with a protective wrap or burlap to protect them from the extreme cold and from winter winds. This simple method of keeping the bark from freezing can save your newly planted tree from possible winter damage.
The protective wrap should be about two to three inches wide, with a couple of inches of insulation underneath it. It is also important to avoid long-term wrapping of the tree, as it can cause bark splitting and reduce the tree’s ability to send nutrients to the leaves and fruit.
The timing of when to remove the protective wrap will depend on the weather. Frost is usually only a risk until the last frost of the season. When several days have passed with no additional frosts, the wrap can be removed. If the wrap is removed too early, the young tree can be at risk of freezing in cold temperatures.
Watering Apple Trees
Adequate watering is essential for newly planted apple trees to establish. Water the tree immediately after planting and then several times a day for the first few weeks. After the first few weeks, watering twice a week should be enough to provide moisture for the tree’s roots. Watering more frequently will eventually result in waterlogging and root rot.
To keep the tree well-watered during the early stages, consider creating a watering tube around the trunk. Dig a small trench about two inches deep around the trunk of the tree, at a distance of about 8” from the trunk. Make sure the trench has a slight slope to it and fill it with leaf mulch and organic matter. A couple of times a week, fill the trench with water.
When the tree is established, watering the tree deeply and occasionally is better than frequent, shallow watering. Deep watering encourages root growth and better water uptake. The soil should be damp to touch about two inches beneath the surface. This will prevent water from evaporating too quickly and help the tree to grow steadily.
Fertilizing Apple Trees
Fertilizing your apple tree at the right time and in the right amount is essential for its growth and fruit production. During its first spring, young apple trees should be fertilized with a balanced 6-6-6 fertilizer. This fertilizer helps to promote steady growth and will also help establish strong roots and a strong trunk.
Year 2 is an important year for your apple tree. During this year, the fertilizer should be higher in nitrogen and less in phosphorus and potassium. During its second year, a 10-5-5 fertilizer or a higher nitrogen fertilizer such as 14-2-4 or 20-0-0 can be used.
Starting in its third year, apple trees should generally be fertilized with a balanced 6-6-6 fertilizer every year. However, if you notice your tree is not growing properly, a higher nitrogen fertilizer may be necessary. A slow-release fertilizer applied every spring is often best for established apple trees.
By planting your apple tree correctly and fertilizing correctly, your tree should give you years of fruitful apple harvests.
