This year 3 apple trees died. They were between 8 and 13 years old. I have not had much luck with apples trees. Had a few more die over the years. Only have 1 apple left. Asian pears seem to do much better for me. Any suggestions for a good apple tree to grow that is very tough to kill? My Empire apple was booming in size. It took 12 years to produce a decent crop...then died!