Apple tree problem

Posts

• BobTheGardener Posts: 11,385

  August 2021

  Difficult to say, but the presence of the lichens (which isn't a problem in itself) indicates slow growth, so the tree is likely to be suffering stress, such as lack of enough water, and/or something like Apple scab (looking at those leaves in the photos.)  I can't tell exactly what from the photo's, but if it is planted in a lawn, the grass will win the competition for nutrients over a fruit tree.  If that's the case, then you could clear the grass from a 1m circle centred around the trunk and put down some fish, blood and bone fertilizer as per pack instructions, then mulch the area with home-made compost or similar to a depth of about 5 to 10cm.

  Also check for signs of canker as any growth beyond a cankered area will get less sap and growth will slow down accordingly.

  If it's scab, make sure to clear and burn or dispose of in a council bin, all fallen leaves after the tree drops them all for winter.  Doing this will reduce the amount of infection next year and is general good practice for all fruit trees.

  A trowel in the hand is worth a thousand lost under a bush.
  

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