crabapple

Crabapple (Malus 'Fozam' FOX FIRE) should be watered frequently to keep the soil lightly moist. Depending on the weather conditions, this may mean watering the plant a few times a week or every day. During the hot summer months, water the plant deeply once a week, while in cooler months watering every 5 to 7 days should be sufficient. It is important to monitor moisture levels regularly, as too much or too little water can damage crabapple trees. When watering, make sure to fully saturate the soil around the tree, so water reaches the deepest roots.

The crabapple (Malus 'Fozam' FOX FIRE) is a plant species typically suited for full sun exposure, with some afternoon shade. This plant species prefers at least 6 hours of sunlight, although it can tolerate up to 8 – 10 hours daily, depending on season and climate. During the spring and summer, when the sun is out longer, the crabapple can often handle up to 10 hours of sun. During the autumn and winter, however, the crabapple should have slightly less sunlight, as the weather is cooler and the amount of daily light is shorter. This species of plant also prefers even light exposure throughout the day, rather than long bursts of intense sunlight at certain times of day.

The Crabapple, Malus 'Fox Fire' should be pruned in late winter/early spring before new growth begins. About 1/3 of all the branches should be pruned each year to maintain a healthy shape and to encourage dense flowering. It is essential to take a careful and thoughtful approach when pruning a crabapple! Avoid removing all the branches at once, as this can cause shock or adversely affect flowering. Prune out dead, diseased, or damaged branches anytime throughout the year. This should always be a priority, as it will help to keep the plant healthy. Remove any branches shooting up from the center, as these tend to have a reverse-conical shape over time and can easily be crowded out by other branches. To encourage optimal flowering and growth, selectively prune the tips of some of the larger branches down to basal nodes to stimulate lateral branching. This will help to create a more open, airy structure and help to prevent the accumulation of dead wood on the inside of the tree. Remember, pruning is an art and takes practice to master! Take your time and be sure to prune with precision to get the most out of your Malus 'Fox Fire' crabapple.