Question
Jim, my 50 year old granny smith apple tree is in poor shape. I inherited it 3 years ago. There is a huge cavity in the base of the root and the beetles are eating it up. The upper limbs are falling from rot and I don't know what to do....  Please help... DeDe  I live in Gantt Al south central Al..

Answer
This question is to complex to answer without seeing the tree. Sounds like the tree needs a good bit of work from pruning, disease and insect control and fertilizing. I would suggest you contact the Covington county Extension Service office and ask for their help. One of their staff experts should be able to come out and take a look and advice you. Here is the web link to their web page with contact information. I would call them.
http://www.aces.edu/counties/Covington/