columnar apple

Columnar apple (Malus pumila 'Tuscan' STARK EMERALD SPIRE) should be watered weekly to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Ideally, give the plant 1-2 inches of water each week, either from rainfall or irrigation. During periods of hot weather, the plant may need more frequent watering, as much as 3 times a week. Make sure not to overwater - if it is receiving too much moisture, it can be susceptible to disease, so adjust the watering as needed.

Columnar apple (Malus pumila 'Tuscan' STARK EMERALD SPIRE) needs at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. This should be evenly distributed throughout the day, and not concentrated into just a few hours. For optimal growth, the columnar apple should receive full sun, meaning the plant should receive full exposure to direct sunlight for the majority of the day. This type of apple is generally hardy and will do best when growing in an area with full sun. Additionally, they generally prefer cooler temperatures and more humid environments; during the warmer months of the year they should be kept in the shade during the hottest parts of the day.

Pruning is an important part of caring for a columnar apple tree. This species requires light pruning each year as it blooms in the spring. The best time to prune your tree is during the dormant season, usually late winter or early spring before new buds appear. Start by removing any dead, diseased or broken branches. Next, prune away any growth that overlaps, such as tips of branches crossing each other. This will help promote strong growth and prevent crowding. You will also need to thin out your tree to encourage light and airflow and reduce the possibility of disease. Begin thinning from the center of the tree, moving outward. When you’re finished, you may want to shape your tree as desired. You can do this by pruning back the outer foliage by up to 20% and leaving the desired shape. Be sure not to prune too aggressively or you will stunt your tree’s growth. Finally, make sure you use sterilized pruning shears to prevent the spread of disease.