Permitting apples to bear fruit during the first two years can seriously stunt dwarf trees. The third year a few fruits may be permitted to set, but none on the central leader. From the fourth year on, a normal crop is permitted. Most apple varieties must be pollinated by another variety. It is, therefore, recommended that at least two varieties be planted.
Crabapples usually are good pollenizers for eating apples.
Beginning in the first year and throughout the life of the tree, branches can be spread to develop good crotch angles. When spreading very young growth, typically in the first year or two after planting, clothespins may be used. As the tree ages, weights, tie-downs, or spreaders may be used to train the branches. Spreaders can be purchased or home-made. Purchased spreaders are usually variable-length pieces of plastic with V's in both ends.