Apple Trees

Apple trees are some of the most rewarding plants to grow because of the crisp, delicious fruits you get to enjoy. We've been supplying generations of gardeners with plants, and you can grow your own healthy apple trees--some that produce fruit within the first year. Our apple trees for sale represent the best in taste and garden performance. Explore our wonderful selection below.

Apple Trees for Sale From Gurney's

Choosing the Right Apple Tree

When selecting apple trees, keep in mind your space and grow zone. Apple trees will grow in many regions throughout the United States, but some are more suited for northern or southern gardens. Apple trees also require full sun (6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily) and space. Next consider your personal preferences. Some apple tree varieties have great disease resistance; some are best for making cider, baking or eating fresh. Some are tops for storage. Many apple trees require another apple tree for pollination.

Successfully growing apple trees starts with selecting varieties that are well-suited for your area and home gardens. Unlike some plants and trees, apple trees require a bit more maintenance and care.

Getting Started with Apple Trees

Below are some tips and information on successfully growing apples.

When to Plant Apple Trees

Apple trees can be planted in the spring or fall. Planting in the cooler weather of spring gives apple trees a chance to establish their roots before dealing with the hot conditions of summer. In northern areas of the country, planting in the spring is often better because the trees can establish themselves before harsh winter conditions. In the southern areas of country, fall is often better for planting. The trees have time to acclimate with less hot weather stress. Bareroot apple trees generally establish themselves more quickly than potted apple trees.

How to Plant an Apple Tree

Dig a hole large enough so the roots can spread out. The graft or bud union (swollen area on the trunk that is about 4-6 inches above the roots) must be 1-2 inches above the soil surface (after settling). Backfill the hole with dirt. Water well. If planting a Reachables dwarf fruit tree, the tree should be staked immediately after planting. Placing a protective barrier around the trunk will protect the tree from nibbling rabbits and weed whackers.

How Long Does it Take for an Apple Tree to Grow?

An apple tree can start bearing fruit anywhere from 2-8 years after planting. Our Reachables Apple Trees often start bearing fruit the second year after planting. Standard apple trees take longer to bear apples.

How to Keep Your Apple Tree Healthy

Regular spraying and usage of garden insect control products stops bugs before they can damage your apple crop. Apply dormant oil before buds begin to swell in the spring. Spray trees with a liquid fruit tree spray when the flower petals fall. With proper care, fruit trees will remain productive for many years. Gurney's offers garden supplies that will keep your apple trees healthy and growing for years to come. For more information, read our informative guide to growing apple trees.

How to Prune an Apple Tree

Prune apple trees in early spring. During the first few years, very little pruning is needed. When pruning, remove crossed or injured limbs or any branches which rub against each other. This allows light into the center of the tree. Don't cut short spurs from the main stem since these bear first fruit. Starting in year five, prune out shaded or crowded limbs annually in late winter.

Different Flavor Profiles for Apple Trees

Tart Apples

While an apple's tartness can vary with the year and the fruit's ripeness, the Granny Smith apple is generally considered one of the tartest apples. Here is a list of tart apples.

Sweet Apples

Sweet Sixteen is one of the sweetest apples we've tasted--and it's our go-to choice for making no sugar-added apple pies. When selecting sweet apples, keep in mind that fruits with higher levels of acids may not taste as sweet as fruits with lower levels of acids. Here is a list of the sweetest apples.