Growing Columnar Apple Trees in Containers

Columnar Apple Tree Container Care

Planting

Soak roots 1 hour before planting. Use 5-gallon bucket of water. Unwrap, remove packing, place roots in water. Don't let roots dry out. Plant in 16–20 inch diameter container with quality potting soil. Graft union (swollen bump near base) should be no more than 1 inch above soil surface. Place container outdoors in full sun for growing season.

Watering

Containers dry faster than ground; water regularly.

Fertilizing

Do not fertilize at planting—fertilizer can injure roots. Year after planting (and every year thereafter), apply light 5-10-10 fertilizer monthly April through August.

Wintering Over

In cold climates (Zone 5), overwinter containers in sheltered, unheated area (garage/shed) after leaves drop. In warmer climates with freeze-thaw cycles, store on protected porch. Where freezing not a concern, leave outdoors year-round.