Spur Bearing Apple Trees: A Guide to Growing and Harvesting

If you're looking to grow apple trees in your backyard or orchard, then spur bearing apple trees might be the perfect choice for you. Not only are they easy to care for, but they also produce an abundant harvest of delicious apples every year. In this article, we'll guide you through everything you need to know about growing and harvesting spur bearing apple trees.

What are Spur Bearing Apple Trees?

Spur bearing apple trees are a type of tree that produces fruit on spurs, which are short, stubby branches that grow from the main trunk or older branches. These spurs can bear fruit for several years, making them highly productive trees.

One of the main benefits of choosing spur bearing apple trees is that they are naturally compact and require less space than other varieties. This makes them ideal for small gardens or urban areas where space is at a premium.

Choosing the Right Variety

There are many different types of spur bearing apple trees to choose from, each with its own unique flavor profile and growth habits. Some common varieties include:

• Gala
• Golden Delicious
• Red Delicious
• Fuji

When choosing a variety, it's important to consider factors such as climate, soil type, and pollination requirements. Be sure to do your research and select a variety that is well-suited to your specific growing conditions.

Planting and Care

Spur bearing apple trees should be planted in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. They prefer full sun but can tolerate some shade. It's important to keep the area around the tree free of weeds and grass, as these can compete for nutrients and water.

During the first few years after planting, it's important to prune the tree regularly to encourage strong growth and fruit production. This can include removing dead or damaged branches, thinning out crowded growth, and shaping the tree to promote good airflow and sunlight penetration.

In terms of fertilization, spur bearing apple trees benefit from regular applications of nitrogen-rich fertilizer during the growing season. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully to avoid over-fertilization.

Harvesting and Storage

The exact timing of when to harvest your apples will depend on the variety and growing conditions. In general, apples should be picked when they are fully ripe and the stem easily detaches from the branch with a gentle twist.

After harvesting, be sure to store your apples in a cool, dry place such as a root cellar or refrigerator. This will help to prolong their shelf life and prevent spoilage.

Harvesting Spur Bearing Apple Trees

Spur bearing apple trees are a great choice for anyone looking to grow their own apples. They are easy to care for, highly productive, and come in a wide range of delicious varieties. Whether you're planting a few trees in your backyard or starting an orchard, be sure to follow our tips for growing and harvesting spur bearing apple trees.

apple tree pruning, apple tree care, apple tree disease, apple tree pests, apple tree fertilizer, apple tree planting, apple tree varieties, apple tree harvesting