Contents
It’s easier than you think to grow apple tree from seed. All you need is a little patience and the proper technique.
Checkout this video:
Introduction
It is possible to grow an apple tree from seed, but it is not the recommended method for propagation. Apple trees produced from seed will not be true to type, which means they will produce fruit that is identical to the parent tree. For this reason, most commercial growers use grafting or other methods of asexual propagation to produce apple trees. However, if you have a special apple variety that you would like to grow or if you just want to try something different, growing an apple tree from seed can be a fun and rewarding experience.
benefits of Growing an Apple Tree from Seed
There are many benefits of growing an apple tree from seed. For one, it is a much cheaper option than buying a young tree from a nursery. It is also more rewarding to watch your tree grow from a tiny seed into a full-fledged apple tree.
Another benefit of growing an apple tree from seed is that you can control the rootstock. Rootstock is the root system of a plant that determines the size, vigor, and yield of the plant. By growing your own apple tree from seed, you can choose a rootstock that is best suited for your climate and soil type.
Last but not least, growing an apple tree from seed gives you the opportunity to grow a unique variety of apple that may not be available at your local nursery or grocery store.
The Best Time to Plant an Apple Seed
It is best to plant the apple seed in late winter or early spring. This will give the seed time to germinate and begin to grow before the leaves begin to form on the tree. It is also important to plant the seed in an area that receives full sunlight.
How to Plant an Apple Seed
Start with a seed from a apple. You can get one from the grocery store, just make sure it’s organic. Place the seed in a bowl of lukewarm water overnight. This will help to soften the seed coat.
The next morning, fill a planting pot with moistened potting mix. Create a small hole in the center of the mix and carefully place the seed in the hole. Gently cover the seed with more mix and water well.
Place the pot in a warm, sunny location and keep the mix moist but not wet. In a few weeks, you should see a sprout emerge from the soil. Once the plant has reached about 6 inches tall, you can transplant it into your garden.
How to Care for a Young Apple Tree
Assuming you’ve already grown your apple tree from seed, here’s how to care for it in its early stages.
First, make sure to plant your young tree in an area that gets full sun and has well-drained soil. If the soil is too heavy or compacted, it could stunt the tree’s growth.
Once planted, water your young tree deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods. If the leaves begin to wilt or turn brown, that’s Sign the tree needs more water.
Fertilize your young apple tree once a year in early spring, using a fertilizer formulated for fruit trees. Follow the directions on the package for proper dosage and application.
Prune your young apple tree each year to encourage growth and shape the tree as you want it to look when it matures.start by removing any dead or diseased branches. Then, cut back any crossed or rubbing branches. Finally, trim back any branches that are growing outside the desired shape of the tree.
How to Harvest Apples from Your Tree
The best time to harvest apples is when they are fully ripe. To check if an apple is ripe, gently twist it. If it comes off the tree easily, it is ready to be picked.
Once you have picked your apples, wash them thoroughly and remove any blemishes. Then, cut the apples into slices and dry them completely. Drying the apples will help them last longer.
To store your dried apples, place them in an airtight container and keep them in a cool, dark place. Dried apples can last for up to six months if stored properly.
