Even after several decades, suitable apple varieties can still bring an extensive and tasty harvest. However, it is sometimes advantageous for vitality and yield to rejuvenate an apple tree with care measures.

Protecting the old apple tree from vulnerability

By choosing the right variety for a specific location, you lay the foundation for a long life of the apple tree. An apple tree should get enough sunlight and not stand in a substrate with waterlogging, so that it is protected from diseases such as powdery mildew and other fungal infestations. In older specimens, occasional bumps and cracks in the bark are not uncommon, but larger areas of exposed wood should be sealed with suitable means to prevent pests from entering.

Maintain the shape of the tree crown with regular cuts

Ideally, the first topiary should be started on the young apple tree right at the time of planting. If the training pruning has been neglected for a few years, this can lead to an unwanted proliferation of water shoots and other adhesions in the tree crown. For tree health and a good fruit yield, it can make sense if you thin out the apple tree generously. You should pay attention to the following factors:

  • not to produce any horizontal upward interfaces in which rainwater collects
  • to form an even and light tree crown
  • Branches should extend from the main branches at an angle of at least 45 degrees
  • Prevent tree dehydration with winter pruning

Regrafting an old apple tree

Sometimes it can happen that an old apple variety at a location suddenly no longer produces a satisfactory yield. If the fault isn't found in a lack of pruning or waterlogging, you may be able to reinvigorate the old apple tree by grafting on a different apple variety.

tips and tricks

Local fruit and horticultural associations can advise you on the selection of suitable regional varieties for your place of residence if you want to graft a scion onto an old apple tree for rejuvenation.

Category:

Trees