Apple

Garden Help > Fruits & Nuts

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How to grow: UC Backyard Orchard, Apple (Malus domestica)

Pest management: Apples

Pruning video: Video: Winter Pruning of Apple & Pear Trees

The Basics

When to plant: January–March

Harvest window: July–October, depending on variety

Fertilization: Nitrogen in spring, additional applications based on tree age, health, and soil quality

Annual care overview:

• Dormant Pruning (Jan–Feb) to encourage vigor; Summer pruning (post-harvest) to control vigor
• Fruit thinning as fruit emerges, reduce crop to roughly 1 fruit per 6" of shoot growth
• Monitor and control for common pests & diseases, such as fireblight and coddling month

Some Recommended Varieties for Santa Clara County^*

Akane, Arkansas Black, Braeburn, Cox's Orange Pippin, Empire, Esopus Spitzenburg, Fuji, Gala, Gravenstein, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, Jonagold, Jonathan, Mutsu, Newtown Pippin, Red Delicious

^* Many other varieties may also do well here in Santa Clara County. This list is based on UC Master Gardener trials, taste tests, and feedback from local growers.