Apples

All apple trees require cross pollination which means you need another type of apple tree- NOT the same apple tree to bear fruits.

Requirements

Most apple trees can grow well in Utah. Look into the following factors when you select the varieties you want to plant.

Size

Based on the rootstock, there are standard (40′ tall), semi-dwarf (12-15′), and dwarf (8-10′). For cross-pollination, standard should space within 100′; semi-dwarf: 50′; dwarf: 20′.

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Zone

Most apple trees are cold hardy and tolerate light frost. Avoid late ripening ones if you have short growing season. Check your planting zone here.

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Sun/shade

6-8 full sun is required in the growing season. Apples can get sunburn in extreme heat… they are still edible but just not good looking.

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Water

Deep water once a week or more on hot days for young trees. For mature trees, every 2 weeks in the growing season.

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Soil

Not picky as long as it’s well drained. PH 6-7.
USU soil testing

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Pollination

Look into the bloom time (early, mid, late season) of the apple trees when you select the varieties so they can cross pollinating.

How to plant a tree?

After you decide on a good spot, follow this instruction to plant your tree.

Where to buy a tree?

You can purchase bare roots online and plant them in early spring. Or check out nurseries nearby for potted trees.

How to take care of them

With the proper care, you can have high produce every year and for over 50 years (standard) or 15-25 years (semi-dwarf, dwarf).

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Pruning

Do it when it’s dormant – late winter/early spring.
USU – how to prune an apple tree video

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Fertilizing

<3 years young tree should be fertilized in early spring (1/2 cup of ammonium sulfate) and it’s optional for older trees. Mulch 3′ around 3-4″ deep to control weed.

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Worm control

Spray pyrethrin in early spring or hang codling moth traps during flowering if you opt for organic way.

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Fruit thinning

Thinning should be performed by hand. Leave only the largest apple in a cluster, and space apples about every 6-8″ along the branch.

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Harvesting

Depends on your varieties, ripening can occur from July to November.

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Storing

Store extra apples in low temp (32-40°F) and high humidity (>80%) with good ventilation.

Questions & Comments

Any questions? Or what’s your experience with planting this in Utah?