If you're looking for a fun backyard project, consider planting an apple tree! There are many different types of apple trees to choose from, so you can find the perfect one for your climate and gardening style.
Apple trees are typically not very fickle, and if properly cared for, they will bear fruit year after year. So, if you're looking for a delicious and beautiful addition to your garden, here are three apple trees you can grow in your backyard!
Golden Delicious Apple Trees
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When planting Golden Delicious apple trees in your backyard, choose a spot with plenty of sunlight. These trees require at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to produce sweet, juicy apples. The soil should also be well-drained and abundant in organic material. Amendments such as compost or peat moss can help to improve the drainage and fertility of the soil.
Additionally, Golden Delicious apple trees self-pollinate quite easily, so there is no need to plant another apple tree close by.
When it comes to watering, mature Golden Delicious apple trees need about an inch of water per week, whereas younger trees need about two inches of water. Be sure to water deeply and evenly, so that the roots can grow deep and strong. Mulching with organic material such as straw or grass clippings will help to keep the roots cool and moist during hot summer days.
Fertilizing your apple trees is important to promote healthy growth and fruit production. A slow-release fertilizer formulated for fruit trees is a good choice. Apply the fertilizer in early spring before the trees begin to bloom. Follow the directions on the package, as too much fertilizer can burn the roots of the tree.
Pruning is also a crucial part of care for Golden Delicious apple trees. Prune out any dead or diseased branches, as well as any crossing or rubbing branches. This will help keep the tree healthy and minimize the spread of disease. You should prune apple trees when they are dormant, in late winter or early spring.
Granny Smith Apple Trees
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Granny Smith apples are one of the most popular apples out there. And just like the Golden Delicious, they’re also self-pollinating.
They're perfect for baking, snacking, and even making cider. Plus, they're relatively easy to grow. Here's everything you need to know about planting a Granny Smith apple tree in your backyard.
Choose a spot in your yard that gets plenty of sunlight. Apples need at least six hours of direct sunlight every day to produce fruit. The soil should also be well-draining. If the soil is too heavy or clay-like, the roots of the tree will suffocate, and the tree will not thrive.
Before planting your tree, dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Loosen up the roots a bit and then place the tree in the hole. Backfill the hole with soil, being sure to pack it down around the roots of the tree.
Once you plant your tree, water it well. It is especially important during the first few weeks after planting. After that, you can reduce watering to once a week or so. Be sure to test the soil before watering to ensure it is dry. Overwatering can be just as damaging as not watering enough.
Gala Apple Trees
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Gala apples are a great choice for planting in your backyard. They produce high-quality fruit and are also a good source of vitamin C.
To ensure your Gala apple tree gets off to the best start possible, plant it in early spring. If you live in an area with a shorter growing season, you can plant your tree in late winter as long as the ground isn't frozen solid.
When choosing a spot to plant your Gala apple tree, make sure it gets plenty of sunlight. The tree will need at least six hours of sunlight each day. It's also important to choose a spot that has well-drained soil.
When you're ready to plant, dig a hole twice the size of the tree's root ball. Delicately remove the tree from its container and put it in the hole. Backfill the hole with soil and water the tree deeply immediately after planting.
Harvest the apples in the fall after they have turned a deep red color. Enjoy your fresh Gala apples as a snack, or use them in recipes!
Take a Bite!
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, planting an apple tree is a fun and rewarding project. There are many different types of apple trees to choose from, so be sure to find the one that best suits your climate and gardening style.
And don’t forget to let us know in the comments below how your apple tree grows! Do you have any tips or tricks for fellow gardeners?