First-Year Care for Newly Planted Apple and Pear Trees

Apple Trees

Step 1: Initial Pruning

Cut to 24–28 inches above ground. Remove damaged/diseased limbs immediately for better form and strength.

Step 2: Select Scaffold Branches

Choose 4 strongest, evenly spaced branches for the scaffold whorl. Remove all others, including competing trunks.

Step 3: Fertilize

Apply 1 lb balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer at base in first spring. Increase annually.

Step 4: Thin Fruit

When apples are dime-sized, thin to 4–6 inches apart, one per cluster for higher quality and disease resistance.

Step 5: Weed Control & Mulch

Lay 2–3 inches mulch, keep weeds down. Use rodent guards. In fall, pull mulch back 1 foot from trunk.

Pear Trees

Step 1: Train to Central Leader

Select 3–4 strong, evenly spaced laterals. Narrow crotch angles are okay—fruit weight will widen them.

Step 2: Remove Competing Growth

Cut out competing leaders, dead/damaged wood, and water sprouts at base.

Step 3: Water

Provide 1 inch per week if dry, especially in sandy soil.

Step 4: Mulch & Weed

Hoe and hand-weed. Apply 2–3 inches mulch.

Step 5: Fertilize Lightly

Scatter ½ cup 10-10-10 in a 2-foot circle starting 6 inches from trunk.