Apple Trees
Our premium apple trees are hardy, reliable & will produce delicious fruit for years, not to mention abundant blossom in spring. John, our fruit grower in the New Forest, has over fifty years' experience growing the UK's finest fruit trees. He’s helped us curate a selection of only the very best performing varieties, each with something unique about them. We'll also help you with everything you need to know about choosing, growing and caring for apple trees.
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South Downs National Park
Meet John
110 years' expertise free with every tree
John’s family have been growing trees in the South Downs National Park for over a century, and it shows. Dug up and sent straight to your garden at between 18-36 months old, their quality rootstocks, expert pruning and natural pest control mean that these traditionally field-grown trees are the hardiest you can get.
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Apple Trees FAQs
Where should I plant an apple tree?
Apple trees are happiest in locations that receive full sun and have well-drained, fertile soil. We recommend that your tree receives at least six to eight hours of sunlight during the growing season.
When should I plant an apple tree?
The best time to plant a container grown tree is from mid August to the end of May. Bare root trees should be planted from late autumn until early spring. Find out how potted and bare root trees are different.
How long does it take an apple tree to produce fruit?
Standard size apple trees can take up to eight years to bear fruit after planting, while dwarf trees will bear fruit within two to three years of planting. All our trees come on rootstocks that reduce vigour, producing a smaller sized tree. In the wild on their own roots they certainly would grow larger.
How big do apple trees get?
It is not uncommon for apple trees to reach a height of 7-10m, sometimes even more whereas it usually takes a dwarf apple tree 2-6m to reach full height.
How do I care for an apple tree?
Bare root trees do not require regular watering, only during dry spells. On the other hand, container grown trees will need watering every other day for the first few months until their roots are established, slowly reducing this to twice a week until autumn. When watering an apple tree, it is important to give it a good soaking, encouraging the roots to grow deeper into the ground. Don’t worry, there’s no need to feed! Apple trees get all the nutrients they need from the soil.
Do I have to plant my apple tree straight away?
Bare root apple trees need to be planted as soon as possible after they arrive or when you bring them home, whereas potted trees can be kept in their pots for longer. It is never a good idea to store a bare-rooted or container grown tree indoors for a long time, as the conditions inside a house will quickly dry it out! Find out more about planting your apple tree.
Should I train my apple tree?
Besides looking sublime, espalier apple trees save space, make apple harvesting easier and produce better fruit. Learn how you can train your apple tree.
What are the best apple trees to grow in the UK?
Although it was hard to narrow down, we’ve hand-picked the best of the bunch for you (excuse the pun!):
- Discovery - The most widely grown dessert apple in the UK! Easy to grow & super sweet, with a hint of strawberry.
- Red Windsor - A great apple for beginners! Easy to grow & amazingly reliable.
- Spartan - A crisp, sweet, juicy apple - perfect for kids.
- Pixie - Eat fresh, juice or cook these versatile, award-winning apples.
- James Grieve - We think these are probably the best dual purpose variety of apple.
