Anna apples have iron, calcium, phosphorous, vitamin A and vitamin B. They are an excellent source of fibre too.
Position
The Anna apple tree should be planted in full sun, with 6 and 8 hours of sunshine daily. Each tree should be planted between 4.5 to 6 metres away from the next to give them room to grow and mature.
Size
The Anna apple can grow to between 6 and 7 metres high and has a width or spread of the same, making it a sizeable tree.
Soil Type
This type of apple tree does well in well-drained, slightly acidic soil, with a pH of between 6.0 and 6.8. Although it can grow in different types of soil, it thrives in well-nourished sandy loam soil.
Superfrass (R25 per bag) is a natural high quality organic growth enhancer and pesticide which you could add when planting.
Watering
Apples need a moderate amount of water regularly. Be aware of dry spells and slightly increase the amount of water you give your tree when it starts to fruit.
Mulching
Add a thick layer of pine bark mulch, keeping it about 20 to 30 centimetres away from the tree trunk (any closer may cause excess moisture and damage the trunk). This will retain the moisture in the soil and will prevent weeds from taking over.
Fertilising
Apply 1 teaspoon of our slow-release nitrogen-rich berry fertiliser every 4-5 months.
Pruning
The best time to prune your tree is during spring or early summer. Cut off any branches that are hanging down, dead or diseased. You should also remove all of the unwanted shoots that come out of the tree trunk right up until the canopy. This helps the nutrients to get to the boughs with the fruit more efficiently.
Pests and Diseases
Apple trees are prone to Powdery Mildew. Spraying regularly with Agricultural Neem Oil or Effective Microorganisms (EM) Control will assist in either prevention or after-the-fact treatment. If you already have aphids, mites, or mildew, wash the tree with a strong hose. When dry, spray with Neem oil or EM Control. Consistency is key.
Harvesting
The harvest of the Anna apple tree is generous and usually starts at the very beginning of summer. They are ripe when their yellow-green skin has a beautiful red bush. They keep for 6 to 8 weeks in the fridge
