AT A GLANCE
How far should the pollinator be from the apple tree?
For high yields it is recommended that a suitable pollinator at a distance of fifty to one hundred meters to the apple tree. It is also important that it is a variety suitable as a pollen donor.
How big can the distance between the apple tree and the pollinator be?
For rich fruit yield it is recommended that the two trees no greater distance than fifty to one hundred yards exhibit. However, the pollinating insects fly up to a kilometer away in search of food, so that even a distant standing apple tree can serve as a pollen donor.
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- pruning apple tree
As a rule, there are enough cross-pollinators in the immediate vicinity of home gardens. A healthy mix of varieties makes sense here, too. Therefore, before planting an apple tree, coordinate with your neighbors regarding the variant.
Why does the apple tree need a pollinator?
are apple trees self-sterile cross-pollinators. Since the own pollen on the stigma germinates only insufficiently, the
Don't self-pollinate the apple tree. In addition, by no means every variety is an equally good pollen donor for another.A special feature of apples are the triploid varieties, which include the Gravensteiner, for example. If you cultivate these, there should be two diploid varieties in the vicinity so that they can fertilize each other with foreign pollen.
Which apple trees pollinate each other?
The Pollinating varieties must flower at the same time. But even if this is the case, it cannot be guaranteed that a specific apple tree is suitable as a pollen donor. For this reason there are long lists in which it is noted which ones apple varieties are particularly conducive to cross-fertilization.
Ornamental apple varieties are also often used. These flower profusely, produce a lot of nectar and do not need to be cut. They are placed at a suitable distance from the apple trees and, like another apple variety, ensure good fruit set.
Tip
Pollinating insects need food all year round
In order for fruit trees to bear fruit abundantly, it is important honey and wild bees as well bumblebees and hoverflies an attractive environment. In addition to the blossoms on the fruit trees, the hard-working helpers need morning and night feeding in order to always find enough food. Also make sure you have suitable shelters.
