These are theflowering crabapples, of which there are many dozens of named cultivars.
These small to medium-sized trees are extremely popular for their fragrant, delicate spring blossoms.
Crabapple trees are normally planted from potted nursery specimens in the fall.
However, large numbers of seeds must be chewed and swallowed to have a serious impact.
These are relatively high-maintenance trees.
Some cultivars can tolerate a partial shade location.
Rich soil with good drainage is ideal, and they prefer a slightly acidic soil pH.
Mulch also helps to keep the roots cool and moist in summer if a heatwave arrives.
Excessive rainfall can harm the tree’s growth cycle and productivity.
Fertilizer
Most apple trees don’t need much in the way of fertilizer.
Using natural mulch (wood chips or pine bark) can help keep nutrient-rich soil intact.
Pruning during the active growing season can initiate the tree up to bacteria and insect damage.
Branches that are crossed, or heading in that direction, should be pruned away.
The more sunlight that reaches into the center of the tree, the more blooms the tree will produce.
Applewood is fragrant when burned and can also be used for barbecue cooking or smoking to impart flavor.
Such a procedure is not practical for most amateurs.
Press the seeds down into the potting mix and cover them with a bare covering of additional potting mix.
Moisten the pots and set them in a right, warm spot.
Cover the pots with a plastic cover.
When the seedlings are about 6 inches tall, transplant them into larger containers filled with commercial potting mix.
Pinch back the tops to encourage side branching.
A thin layer of well-decomposed manure applied in late fall will help enrich the soil for the following spring.
Make every effort to keep your tree healthy and treat the problems that are diagnosed.
It’s best to have a professional look at your tree and make recommendations for how to treat it.
Faced with a ragged-looking tree, establish a three-year plan to gradually restore the tree to its healthy state.
As the tree begins to shed ripe fruit, check that to routinely rake the ground to remove debris.
This is partly because these trees are prone to many diseases and pests that can gradually weaken a tree.
Most crabapple varieties have a sour taste and are not suitable for eating raw.
They are, however, often made into flavorful preserves and ciders.
There are also a few cultivars that have been developed to have a sweeter flavor.
Generally speaking, the smaller the fruit is, the more tart it will taste.
But in most regions, it’s safe to begin picking crabapples in mid to late September.
you’re able to test whether the fruit is ready to be harvested by cutting open a couple.
If the seeds are dark brown, rather than greening or white, then they are likely ready.
Even young trees resent this kind of treatment.
Water the newly planted tree thoroughly after planting.
This tree is an excellent small specimen tree.
Plant it in a location where it is easily seen and appreciated in spring.
Some larger, wider cultivars can make decent small shade trees in the landscape.
Smaller varieties can join other flowering shrubs in a shrub border garden.
