Apple Tree Questions ?

Question

1. How do you prevent apples splitting during their growth ?
2. How do you prune the branches ?

Thank you Anf and Kitty.

Answer 1

Splitting probably due to bugs getting in during late autumn, spring and winter. They get into the tree and wait for the blossom etc and get into the apples early. Buy a grease band for the trunk. This will stop them taking that route. Then ensure that the branches do not touch other growth as the bugs will find their way into the tree that way. Try not to spray with chemicals.
To prune, do this after all the apples have gone. Look at the branches and prune back to where you see a sort of knuckle. This is where the growth started this year. Cut at that point. Do it before the frosts arrive.
When all of this latest growth has been cut out clear the middle of the tree to let air and light through. Finally cut off all those tiny bits of growth that produce a blossom and then fruit but the fruit is small and useless.
I do this all every year. I do get some bugs, they may fly in, but the majority of apples are big and tasty.
Best of luck. Getting rid of the cuttings is the worst part.

Answer 2

The Extension Office of your state university has some great illustrated guides to pruning fruit trees, and they're free - paid for by your tax dollars. Give them a call.

Answer 3

I once read that you should cut the apple tree in the centre, allowing enough spce for birds to fly through. It does work and you get great growth the folowing year

Answer 4

1. Don't tell it too many jokes.
2. With something sharper than my wit.

Sorry, couldn't resist. Apparently the trick is that as soon as the apples start to develop, you must remove the centre apple of the group, allows room for rest to grow. Other than that, check out http://gardenaction.co.uk/fruit_veg_diary/fruit_veg_mini_project_september_2f_apple.asp

Hope this helps