How to Grow an Apple Orchard

An orchard is usually defined as a uniform plantation of specified plants. The orchard is planted to commercially produce fruits and vegetables of the same kind. During the plantation of an orchard, uniformity, regarding the location of the plant or the species and sub-species of the plant is maintained. In Europe, 'mixed orchards' (where a variety of plants are planted) are also found.

The process of planting, growing and maintaining an orchard is very difficult, and requires considerable knowledge of botany. The total process requires patience and willingness to work. One cannot reap the fruits (in this case, apples) of hard work, until the plants grow and bear fruit.

Cultivars of Apples

At present, many different cultivars of apple have been developed. Before choosing the appropriate cultivar, one has to consider the following points about the cultivar.

• Average size of the cultivar
• Average height of the cultivar
• Blossoming season
• Ripening season
• Required nature of soil
• Required climate
• Required space for healthy growth

Some of the prominent cultivars of Apple trees are; Pristine, Williams' Pride, Liberty, Redfree, Enterprise, Jonafree and Goldrush.

Dwarf-sized and Standard-sized Trees

According to their sizes the apple trees can be classified into two types, which are dwarf-sized plants and standard size plants. The selection depends on the location and the type of orchard. The dwarf-sized apple plants are convenient for a more personalized and smaller orchard. The dwarf-sized plants are easy to maintain and require less space. Plucking the fruit is also convenient. The standard-sized plants grow into larger trees. These plants require a large space and have to be maintained regularly, which is difficult, owing to their large size and lengthy branches. Most of the apple cultivars are available in dwarf-size. An average dwarf-sized plant grows to the height of 10 feet. On the other hand, the standard-sized apple plant can grow up to a height of 15 to 20 feet.

Location of the orchard and and plantation of trees

Choosing an appropriate location for the orchard is always a tricky task. The apple plant requires very bright sunlight for healthy growth. The morning dew is the medium through which contagious diseases spread in apple plants. The early morning sun evaporates the dew, thus preventing the diseases. The orchard, hence must be planted in such a manner, that it enjoys all the possible early morning sunlight. The apple plants grow well in the soil with a sandy texture and very good drain off.

Actual process of planting

It is best to get small apple plants from nearby nurseries. It is extremely important to keep the roots moist before planting them in soil. If the roots start drying up, then it is advisable to soak them in water before planting. To plant one apple tree, dig a trench and place the plant inside it. Make sure that the roots are well spread before covering up the trench. The dwarf-sized plants should be planted at a distance of 8 feet away from each other and a distance of 14 feet must be left between the rows. The standard-sized plant must be planted from a distance of 10 feet from each other and it is advisable that a distance of 16 feet is maintained between the rows.

Pruning

The ideal time to prune the apple tree is March. In the initial stages, cut off the branches that begin to rot or are infested. Prune the top most branches very regularly (one a month) and keep the top pointed, so as to ensure sufficient sunlight for the lower branches. The unwanted and non-symmetrical branches of the tree must be removed to maintain the balance of the tree.

Fertilization

The apple orchard must be fertilized with the appropriate fertilizer. It is also necessary to conduct a soil test after every two or three years and derive the appropriate fertilizer and the quantity in which it is used. A timely and appropriate amount of fertilizer ensures the growth of the orchard and quality fruit.

The apple tree requires a lot of attention and protection. If the orchard is well looked after, it produces the most delicious of apples.