New Apple tree

7 years ago

My husband bought 2 apple trees from the nursery in town. They was planted in November. They are both loaded with fruit. I have prune back some (probably not enough on one tree and too much with the other, thanks to the help of our cows. Lol) the apples are small and have not grown much. I would say 1/2 the size of an apple in the store. They are green. I have cut one open and they look good on the inside. Texture is a little different. maybe not ripe. I am just wondering when do I pick and why are they so small. I am a first time Apple Tree grower and need all the advice you have. Thank you!

Featured Answer

gardengal48 (PNW Z8/9)

7 years ago

The apples are small because they were not thinned. There is only so much fruit a tree, especially one that is not yet established, can support and bring to a proper size. That involves thinning or removing much of the fruit while still very immature (June usually). Clusters are reduced to just a single fruit and allow 6-8 inches in between fruits.

Can't tell you when to pick :-) That depends on the type of apple. Unless a completely green skinned cultivar like Granny Smith, the apples should develop some color when ripe, when you cut into them, the pips should be dark brown, they should smell 'fruity' and come off the tree easily. And some may drop on their own accord. But tasting should be the key.

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Comments (6)

rhizo_1 (North AL) zone 7
7 years ago
Amber, what varieties of apples are they? Apples are usually considered a fall-ish crop, right?
Amber Harness thanked rhizo_1 (North AL) zone 7
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sautesmom Sacramento
7 years ago
Depending on where you live, apple varieties span 6 months of harvest dates. We need to know what varieties and where you live in order to comment.
floral_uk z.8/9 SW UK
7 years ago
Amber, to know when to pick an apple cup it in your hand and lift it gently. If it is ripe it will break off by itself at the little 'elbow' in the fruit stem. If you cut an apple open the seeds will be brown when ripe. If the seeds are white it isn't ripe.
Amber Harness thanked floral_uk z.8/9 SW UK
Amber Harness
Original Author
7 years ago
last modified: 7 years ago
I am not sure what varieties they are. My husband bought them and didn't get any information on them. :) We shall keep waiting and hopefully they will grow from now till fall. Should I water and how much and often?
floral_uk z.8/9 SW UK
7 years ago
We can't tell you whether to water or how much since we don't know where you are or what your weather is like. Where I am an apple planted in November would be unlikely to need watering the following July. But your situation could be totally different.