Apple trees are hands-down the most popular fruit trees in American backyards. The cool thing is that they come in just about every size imaginable. Whether you’re looking for a tiny tree for a patio pot or a massive shade tree to anchor your landscape, there’s a perfect fit for your space.
It’s All About the Rootstock
How big your apple tree eventually gets depends almost entirely on the rootstock it was grafted onto. There are tons of different growth heights available across various varieties. Definitely do your homework before you dig a hole—you don’t want any “giant” surprises in five years that might force you into a difficult transplant job!
Standard and Semi-Dwarf Trees Get Big
The heavyweights of the apple world are “Standard” trees (often called high-stems). These can have a trunk height of up to 6 feet, with a canopy that reaches another 10 to 15 feet above that. These giants can easily live for 100 years or more! You’ll mostly find heirloom varieties growing this large. Not far behind is the semi-dwarf tree. While the trunk is a bit shorter (around 4 feet), the canopy spread is often nearly as wide as a standard tree. Just a heads-up: harvesting from trees this tall can be a real workout!
Smaller Apple Trees for Tight Spaces
If you’re looking for something more manageable, a “Spindle” or dwarf tree is the way to go. The trunk starts branching out at only about 15 inches off the ground. These trees usually top out at 6 to 10 feet high and wide. Depending on the variety and how you prune it, you can keep them quite slim or let them grow into a bushy, round shape. Since apple trees are shallow-rooted, these smaller guys can be a bit sensitive to high winds, so using a stake or support is always a smart move.
Columnar Apple Trees
If you’re really short on space, check out columnar apples. They grow straight up like a pillar, reaching about 7 or 8 feet. The cool part? They don’t really have a canopy; the fruit grows right along the main trunk.
Check the Label Before You Buy
Before you plant your tree, make sure you know exactly what you’re getting. A common mistake is thinking you can keep any apple tree small just by pruning it—trust me, you can’t fight nature! The rootstock is what really dictates the final size. When you’re ready to buy, look for trees that are clearly labeled. I always recommend heading to a local nursery rather than a big-box store; the pros there can give you expert advice tailored to your specific yard.