How to Grow Crabapple Trees

One of the most breathtaking of the flowering trees is the crabapple. A particularly hardy tree that will flourish in almost all areas of the United States, the crabapple is a beautiful addition to any garden, lawn or landscape. Here's how to keep that crabapple tree flowering and flourishing.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Find a place to plant the tree. It should have full to partial sun, with soil that is well drained. Make sure the tree has plenty of space to grow; depending on the variety, they can reach heights of between 12 to 40 feet.

2. Choose the right time to plant. Trees that come with root balls can be planted at any time during the spring and summer. Bare root trees should only be planted in the spring.

3. Dig the hole for your crabapple, and make sure that it is just shallow enough that it will not completely cover the root ball of the tree. (For bare root trees, make sure the hole is large enough to comfortably fit the roots with no bending or cramping.) Loosen the soil around the perimeter of the hole, to make sure that the roots of the tree will be able to grow into the surrounding soil easily.

4. Separate some of the roots from the root ball as you're planting. Make sure they're positioned downward, to give them a good growing start.

5. As you are filling the hole with the soil you've removed, keep watering to make sure any air pockets are removed. Water thoroughly when you are finished replacing the soil.

6. Make sure to keep the tree well moistened. Mulch can be used to insulate the tree, but be sure to keep the tree trunk free of mulch.

7. Keep grasses away from the base of the tree, as they will steal valuable moisture and nutrients.

8. Keep a close eye on your tree for any signs of disease or pests. Make sure the leaves, flowers, fruit and bark all continue to look as healthy as they were the day the tree was planted.

Tips & Warnings

• The fruit of the crabapple tree isn't a fruit to be eaten raw, but can be made into jams and jellies.
• The crabapple's fruit is also a favorite of wildlife; some varieties will hold onto their fruit through the winter, making them great for attracting winter birds. Plant a crabapple somewhere where you can enjoy the sights from inside.
• When mowing around a crabapple, be careful not to chip the bark and trunk, as you could do permanent damage to the tree.