When to plant Apple Tree?

Apple trees thrive in full sun and need at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to produce a good crop. Choose an open, sheltered site away from frost pockets, as late spring frosts can damage blossom. They prefer loam or clay soil with good drainage; avoid waterlogged ground. Before planting, dig a hole roughly twice the width of the root ball and fork over the base to break up compacted soil. Mix in well-rotted compost or manure to improve structure and fertility. Plant bare-root apple trees during their dormant period: November, December, February, or March are ideal, with late autumn and early winter often best to allow roots to establish before spring growth. Container-grown trees can go in at any time within this window, provided the ground isn't frozen or waterlogged. Position the tree so the graft union (the knobbly bulge low on the trunk) sits about 10 cm above soil level; burying it can encourage the scion to root, negating your chosen rootstock. Space trees 400 cm apart, though this varies with rootstock—dwarfing types need less, vigorous ones more. Backfill with the excavated soil, firming gently with your heel to eliminate air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting, even in wet weather, to settle soil around the roots. Drive in a sturdy stake at a 45-degree angle to avoid the root ball, and secure the trunk with a tree tie, leaving room for growth. Apply a 5–7 cm layer of well-rotted compost or bark mulch around the base, keeping it clear of the trunk to prevent rot.