Apple tree - lack of water during holiday
frenwick62
Posts: 4
Sadly, due to unforeseen problems accessing our house, our neighbours couldn't water our recently purchased small espalier apple tree. We were advised not to plant it out in the garden until the autumn, so we left it in its small pot. The tree was very healthy and has about 5 apples on it. Alas, on our return it had not been watered and all the leaves are shrivelled and brown, but the fruit is still in tact, I have given it a good soak and I don't believe it is dead.
1. Should I take all the leaves off so it's 'bald' or leave them on. My husband says leave, but I'm not so sure?
2. should I plant it out as soon as possible or will that cause the fruit to drop.
We are so new to this. Any guidance/help greatly appreciated.
Last edited: 13 August 2016 15:16:19
Posts
Hi there frenwick. Plant it in the garden as soon as you can. Leave the leaves on as they will be dropping naturally within the next few months. Make sure it has a nce clear area around it so that there is no competition for water and nutrients and it should recover for next year. The fruit may drop as that is just the tree's way of conserving moisture and why the leaves have started shrivelling prematurely. Time will tell after you get it planted out.
when i plant thirsty trees i always part bury a piece of plumbers plastic piping along side it level with the rootball, that way if im away for a few days soon after planting i can fill the pipe and know the root will be kept moist
it doesn't matter what you do with the leaves, they'll drop off eventually. Take the apples off, the plants will have enough to do just staying alive.
In the sticks near Peterborough
Thank you everyone.
You're welcome.