Picking the perfect spot in your garden for a new apple tree can be a bit of a puzzle. Before you dig that hole, it’s a great idea to chat with the folks at your local nursery and really think through your layout. After all, the goal is a heavy harvest of crisp, juicy apples come late summer or fall!
Apple Trees Love the Sun
For the happiest tree, you’ll want to find a spot that gets plenty of sunshine and is tucked away from harsh winds. That said, if your yard is a bit moody with the light, don’t worry—there are several varieties that can still produce a great crop in partial shade. The real “must-have” is nutrient-rich soil. When it comes to feeding your tree, I always recommend sticking with organic fertilizers to keep things natural and healthy.
Growing Apple Trees in Pots and Planters
If you’re working with a small backyard or just a patio, you don’t have to miss out on the fun. You can easily grow an apple tree in a pot or large container! Just make sure you choose a variety grafted onto a “dwarf” or slow-growing rootstock. Growing in pots is actually a clever hack—it makes it much easier to move your tree around to catch those perfect sunny-to-partially-shaded rays.