Raise an apple tree as a bush tree

What distinguishes apple bush trees from real apple trees?

The essential Difference between a classic standard apple tree and a bush tree is in the expected size of the wood.

• high stems reach a height of eight to ten meters, while bush trees only four.
• This makes them easier to harvest.
• Since they are usually called spindle trees or trellis fruit When cultivated, they don't take up much space and fit in well in gardens with limited space.
• You can already expect yields in the second year.

How are these apple trees planted?

Since bush trees form a smaller root ball, you should definitely plant the wood in the first few years support with a stake, which you fit directly into the planting hole when planting. It is also important to have a

distance of three meters not to be undercut to other trees.

Also Apple bush trees are not self-pollinating. In order for the fruit tree to bear fruit well, a suitable pollinator must be nearby. If this is not the case, you should always cultivate apple trees in pairs.

How is a bush tree grown?

So that apple bush trees do not form too dense a crown, you need them Pruning regularly and professionally:

• Shorten the sapling to about 75 centimeters after planting.
• Only leave three well-developed side shoots, which you also cut back by a third.
• In the first winter the shoots forming the basic framework cut by half, all others to four eyes.
• Cut off the main shoot so that more side shoots form.

Does an apple bush tree require special care?

The There is no difference in caring for bush fruit and tall trees. However, the young trees are still quite vulnerable to frost. A layer of mulch made from grass clippings or leaves not only ensures that water is retained in the soil in summer, it also protects the root area from frost.

Newly planted bush trees are also susceptible to aphids, which can seriously damage the small trees. If necessary, rinse off the pests with the garden hose and spray them treetop in case of severe infestation with diluted stinging nettle decoction.