How to Care for Apple Tree Seedlings

Apple trees are generally low-maintenance trees, so long as they remain free of pests and diseases. However, seedlings require some special care so that they grow into healthy adult trees. Proper care of a seedling will help your tree produce an abundance of superior fruit.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Apple tree seedling
• Nitrogen-rich fertilizer
• Water
• Watering can
• Wooden stakes
• Gardening wire
• Cloth scraps
• Wire clippers

1. Drive a wooden stake into the ground 6 inches away from each side of the seedling. Cut two 9-inch pieces of gardening wire.

2. Loop one wire around the right side of the seedling and the stake to the left; wrap the other wire around the left side of the seedling and the stake to the right. Staking the seedling will prevent it from leaning or being blown down by storms.

3. Fold cloth scraps into two rectangles about 1/4 inch thick. Tuck these between the wire and the tree trunk so that the wire does not damage the tree.

4. Spread 1 lb. of fertilizer in a circular band 3 feet away from the seedling's trunk. Water the tree deeply so that the soil is very moist but not soggy.

5. Repeat Step 4 about every 2 weeks. In between, water when the topsoil becomes dry.

References

• Care of Wild Apple Trees
• Taking Care of an Apple Tree
• Planting Apple Trees