Apple trees, also known by the Latin name Malus domestica, are the most widely cultivated fruit trees and we have a vast range of varieties to reflect this. There's eating, cooking, cider and even dual purpose apples for those that want it all. When space is limited, family fruit trees are a great option as they have multiple varieties grafted onto one tree....
Choosing Apple Trees
Apple trees are part of the Rose family (Rosaceae) and are native to Central Asia. There are now more than 750 known cultivars of apple tree. With so many varieties available, we recommend taking a few moments to narrow your choice down. Broadly speaking, apples are suited to either eating or cooking, but there are apples suited to both (known as dual purpose) or other uses such as cider making. Flavours have varying levels of sweet or sharp and there are also more subtle complexities including hints of strawberry, pear, pineapple or nuts.
Consider your location and if you are in a northern area of the UK, hardier varieties such as Discovery, Fiesta, Blenheim Orange and Charles Ross are most suitable. Most neighbourhoods have other apple trees for pollination, but if you live in a very remote location and are only planting one then we would recommend a self-fertile variety as these do not require a pollination partner.
When growing several varieties of apple tree, you can choose varieties that flower at the same time to aid pollination or you can choose those that fruit at different times to extend your harvesting right through from late summer to early autumn. Most varieties prefer full sun, though some such as Malus domestica 'James Grieve' and 'Egremont Russet' still produce fruit in partial shade.
If space for growing fruit trees is limited, there are several options. Ideally, choose a dwarf rootstock in this situation, as the final height and spread of the tree depends on both the rootstock and variety. However, all apple trees require at least one pruning every year to encourage a good crop, so they can be kept smaller if desired. We also offer patio cordon apple trees that are perfect for keeping in a pot.
Planting & Growing Apple Trees
Apple trees are among the easiest of fruit trees to grow in the UK and do well in most free draining soils with a sunny position (see Choosing Apple Trees for the best varieties to cope with less than ideal conditions). All the fruit trees on the website are pot grown so can be planted at any time of the year.
For spring and summer planting, water trees well and regularly for the first few months after planting, increasing watering if there are periods of hot or dry weather. Going forwards, we recommend mulching in spring by applying a layer of well-rotted manure or compost. In late spring, apply a general fertiliser. With little care, apple trees will reward you with crops of delicious fruit for years to come.
Harvesting Apples
Different varieties of Apple ripen at different times (called Cropping Period). When ripe, apples will come away easily from the tree with a slight twist. Storing in trays will extend the length of time they can be kept. Visit the following guide for detailed planting, pruning and care advice of apple trees.
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Advice From Our Experts
5 min read
Beginner's Guide to Fruit Tree Pollination
When you grow your own fruit tree, you’ll need to consider pollination – how and if your tree needs to be pollinated in order to produce fruit. Read our beginner's...
5 min read
Beginner's Guide to Fruit Tree Rootstocks
To those that are new to growing their own fruit, the concept of rootstocks can seem a little daunting. However, it's not as complicated as it seems! Read on for...
5 min read
How to Prune Fruit Trees
For most forms of fruit tree, we recommend pruning it for the first few years after planting to ensure a balanced shape develops. Apple and pear trees are best pruned...
10 min read
How to Espalier Train Fruit Trees
Espalier is a method of training fruit trees so that they grow flat with horizontal tiers against a support, and is a great option for areas or gardens with limited...
How to Fan Train Fruit Trees
Fan training is a method of training fruit trees so that they grow flat against a wall or support, with the branches forming an attractive fan shape. This is a...
15 min read
Ultimate Guide to Apple Trees | How to Grow You...
Apples are some of the easiest and most rewarding fruits to grow in the UK. With an established tree, you can enjoy delicious fruits for many years, as well as...
8 min read
Guide To Pear Trees | Choosing, Planting & Pruning
Planting Pear Trees A sunny, sheltered position is preferable for pear trees. Our pot grown pear trees can be planted at any time of the year, whereas bare root pear...
8 min read
Guide To Cherry Trees | Choosing, Planting & Pr...
Choosing Cherry Trees Nothing beats the taste of home grown cherries. To grow your own, ensure you choose a fruiting cherry tree, not an ornamental one. Fruiting cherry trees can...