Basically, apple trees in the garden require relatively little care compared to other fruit trees. However, in summer weather and shortly after planting, it can make sense to water the tree sufficiently.

Care for and water the apple tree properly

A freshly planted apple tree seedling should be sufficiently watered during the growth phase, even if planted at the ideal time in autumn. After all, it takes a while before the fine roots, which are sometimes injured or pruned when transplanting, have sufficiently branched out again. Since the apple tree is predominantly a typical one, regular inspection and watering may be necessary during hot dry periods in summer. The following factors play a role here:

  • the tree age and the vitality of the tree
  • the site
  • the soil substrate
  • the course of the weather

Be careful with newly planted trees

Immediately after planting, a young apple tree should be watered not only to keep the moisture in itself, but also to close air pockets around the roots with fine soil substrate. This process is also referred to in gardening circles as the so-called "sludge". It works best if a slight watering edge is modeled around the tree disc of the freshly planted tree from the soil, which directs the water towards the tree trunk. So no water is lost and it can be watered with maximum efficiency.

The right amount of watering of the apple tree ensures tree health

Basically, you should put an apple tree in a location where it gets at least six hours of sunlight a day. This is the only way you will be able to harvest sweet and intensely tasting apples in larger numbers. However, this also means that the apple tree is exposed to sunlight for a longer period of time during hot periods in summer. As soon as the top layer of soil feels dry, the shallow-rooted apple tree should be watered with at least three large watering cans (equivalent to about 30 liters of water). You should not forget to water the apples, especially during their ripening phase, because otherwise the apple tree can drop fruit if it is dry. Applying a layer of mulch around the tree trunk saves watering work, but can promote fungal infestation. Overwatering should also be avoided in impermeable soil, as apple trees are sensitive to waterlogging.

tips and tricks

Since the fine roots of the apple tree extend into the ground at some distance around the tree trunk, watering should not be done directly on the tree trunk, but on the edge of the tree disc.

Category:

Trees