In its first year after planting you should check on your tree at least once a week. Give it a good soaking if it hasn’t rained for a week - avoid getting water on the leaves as this encourages disease and leaf scorch.
Once the first season is over, just water in periods of hot weather.
If the tree is in a container it will need watering more regularly - stick your finger into the first inch of topsoil and if it feels medium dry, water immediately.
Your apple tree needs the occasional haircut - It is best to do this in the winter when the tree is dormant. Remove any branches that are growing towards the centre of the tree instead of pointing outwards - these will not get enough sunlight to produce fruit. Next remove any dead, diseased or dying leaves/branches.
Remove the competition from around the tree base - weeds.
Add mulching every Spring (April-May) or Autumn (October) while it’s young. This keeps the soil moist and nutrient-rich and discourages weeds from growing.
Feeding your apple tree will help it to gain the nutrients it needs to fruit. Late winter is an ideal time - we advise using a granular rose fertiliser as these are potassium-rich.
If your tree is still in its pot you can move it into a greenhouse or conservatory (somewhere sheltered) when the temperatures begin to drop to protect it from extreme temperatures and frosts.
If your tree flowers before the last of the spring frosts, you may need to wrap it in horticultural fleece on frosty nights. This will prevent the flowers being damaged.
We love our carbon sucking friends and would love to see them in their new homes. Please share any photos on Twitter or Instagram! Happy planting!