Many gardeners love the idea of planting apple trees but put it off because they are not sure about what are the best apple trees to grow. There are so many different varieties, that it can seem overwhelming. Let's look at this to help simplify things and help any apple enthusiasts start planting.
There are some preliminary elements that a person should keep in mind even before deciding which apple trees to grow in their yard.
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One of the most important will be location. Apple trees will not grow well and will not produce well if a gardener does not have the proper planting location. One thing to keep in mind is that if you do not have adequate areas in your yard for trees, you can always opt for potted apple trees that can be placed on your deck or patio and will still give you fruit.
Just about every apple tree that exists cannot stand alone. They need another apple tree to serve as a cross pollinator. Therefore, with two trees, each will use the other for pollination purposes which then allows the trees to produce.
With this being said, one must make sure that they have room for at least two trees. If you space is limited you can always opt for dwarfs which will grow to a general height of between five to eight feet when fully mature.
If you wish for a larger tree, you can choose a semi-dwarf or if you wish for rather huge tree, you can go with a standard.
In all cases, the trees will need to be planted in a spot where they will receive a lot of sun. There are very few apple trees that do well in the shade. Sun is needed for growth and to allow for moisture to evaporate which can save a tree from certain diseases.
The trees also need room to grow and spacing is important. A good rule of thumb is that the spacing between the trees should equal the number of feet that the tree is projected to grow when fully mature. For example, an apple tree that is estimated to grow to ten feet tall should be spaced ten feet from any other tree, apple or otherwise.
Many will do well in all types of soil, but the number one important element in this regard is that they will not do well if planted in soil that does not drain well. How can you know? Just pay attention to what happens after a good rainfall. If there are any areas in your yard in which water remains standing and is forming puddles, this is the area or areas to avoid.
Now that you know where you want to plant your trees and that they will receive enough sun and room to grow it is time to choose the best apple trees to grow for you needs.
With so many choices, it is best to read about which varieties you may be interested in and then read to see if they will thrive well in the area in which you live.
To read about each type of apple tree, categorized by size, color of fruit and by name and to see which trees to plant with which and all sorts of detailed information, please visit http://www.appletreehill.com