Things You'll Need:
- Fertilizer
- Apple tree
- Garden hose
- Mulch
- Soil pH test
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Step 1
Conduct a soil test to learn if your tree is able to get enough water and nutrients in the soil. Dig a hole at least eight inches deep. Scoop up enough soil to fill the sterile sample containers and follow the instructions for a do-it-yourself testing kit or send it away to the testing center indicated on the package. Apple trees thrive in slightly acidic soil. Even in adequate soil, apple trees need to be fertilized with nitrogen every year.
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Step 2
Remove any grass from the planting location or around a young tree. Grass and other plants compete with apple trees for nutrients and water. Be sure when removing plants that you get all of their root systems. Weeds can have extensive root systems that remain alive even after you remove the plant. Refrain from using any weed killer around your new or existing tree.
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Step 3
Check the "root ball," the mass of soil and roots attached to the tree, when planting. You can judge its content by feeling if it is moist. Refrain from adding water to the plant if the root ball contains moisture. If the root ball is dry, add water to the tree after it has been planted in the soil.
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Step 4
Fertilize the tree a week after it has been planted to help it retain nutrients and moisture. Build a layer of mulch around the base of the apple tree. Mulch will lock in moisture. Dilute liquid fertilizer with water. Attach the bottle to your garden hose and spray around the tree, but not directly on the tree to avoid burning the plant. Be sure to fertilize again in March, mid-June and in early-September.
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Step 5
Adopt a weekly watering routine for the apple tree the first two years after planting, especially during droughts and dry spells. If weather conditions are normal, moderately water your tree. Be sure to water the tree in the afternoon to avoid evaporation.
