apple tree

Apple trees grow well in Northeast Ohio and are a great choice for home orchards. They offer beautiful spring blooms and delicious fruit from late summer into fall. Most apple varieties need a second tree that blooms at the same time for cross-pollination. Apple trees grow best in full sun, well-drained soil, and with plenty of space for good air circulation to help prevent disease. They grow at a moderate rate and typically bear fruit within 2 to 5 years. Annual pruning in late winter helps maintain shape and encourage healthy growth. In early summer, thin developing fruit to avoid branch damage and improve fruit size.

The best way to control reoccurring insect and disease problems on fruiting trees and shrubs is with a treatment schedule, starting as early as March. Learn more about a fruit tree treatment schedule. View our  online selection of apple tree varieties available now.

Plant in well-drained, nutrient rich, amended soil. Water well after planting; maintain 1” of water once a week the first year. Prune in late winter to control size and form or after flowering. Remove dead or damaged stems at any time. Feed at least twice during the growing season with a slow release fertilizer in early spring and again mid-summer. Follow label instructions. Mulch 2″ to suppress weeds, retain moisture and protect against extremes of soil temperature. A regular spraying schedule to reduce insects and disease is recommended.