Position
For extra winter chilling, apple trees should be planted in full sun, with 6 to 8 hours of sunshine, preferably on the south side of the property. If growing your tree in containers, use at least a 50L-100L container if not planting directly into the soil.
Size
Granny Smith Apple trees can grow to 12m in height.
Soil type
This tree will grow well in well-drained soil with a pH of 5.8 to 7. The soil needs to be fertile and moisture retentive. Use good potting soil and compost mix.
Superfrass is a natural, quality organic growth enhancer and pesticide. Packed with macro-elements (N, P, K) and micro-nutrients (Zn, Cu, etc.), which enable your plants to grow robustly.
Add half a bag of our Volcanic Rock Dust (R25 per bag) and a bag of Superfrass (R25 per bag). This combination will facilitate rapid growth while also protecting the roots from insect damage.
Watering
Ensure not to overwater your tree, especially if grown in a container. Watering once or twice a week will be completely sufficient. You might water more during the summer when fruit is on the tree, especially during prolonged dry periods.
Mulching
All plants and trees benefit from mulch. Good mulch helps to keep the roots moist and protected from harmful UV rays. Mulch also adds nutrients to feed the plant. Use pine bark mulch to maintain the soil’s pH and add organic matter.
It is essential to keep the mulch about 5 centimetres away from the stem. If it touches the plant, it may cause the branches to rot and get infected.
Fertilising
Apply one teaspoon of our slow-release nitrogen-rich berry/All plant fertiliser every 4-5 months.
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.
Pruning
This is usually done during winter when the tree is dormant. Prune the same as you would do a full-size fruit tree, removing damaged or diseased branches and ones that grow to the centre of the tree.
Staking
Dwarf trees use rootstock with a very small root system as they will need support, especially during fruiting. Tying them to a stake in order to secure the rootstock is deemed necessary.
Pollination
Self-fertile but will perform better with a different variety. Cross pollinate with any other variety.
