When to plant out an apple tree?

niftythrifty33

I have had an apple tree (cox's) in a large tub for a few years. I've had a few apples every year. Last year there were loads of buds then they all fell off, possibly because I forgot to water it for a few days.

I would like to plant it out but not sure where to put it? I don't want it to grow really big (is this possible) and I don't really want it in the middle of the garden like a sore thumb. I also don't know when to plant it out as web has lots of conflicting advise.

TonyMMM

Autumn is the usual time for planting trees - but now should be OK, before it starts its spring growth - as long as the ground isn't waterlogged.

Dig a big hole so that you can get the whole root-ball in, and you should provide a stake to support it until it is properly established.

How big it grows depends on the rootstock it is grafted on to - if it was sold as suitable for a container, it is probably on a dwarf rootstock and will never grow very large.

niftythrifty33

Thanks Tony, I'm not sure whether it was for planting out or container but was from a cheapy shop like poundstretcher or similar?

forgotmyname

Is it in its dormat state? And as mentioned is the ground OK to plant it?

If its dormant and you can did the hole without water sitting in it the carry on.

Also mentioned above make sure the root stays intact. And stake really well.
I would also cover the root area with cardboard and put something over the top to protect it in case it snows.
But if its been outside in a tub then it should be OK.

If it have leaves then i would keep it as cool as possible but no risk of it freezing.

I had some trees sitting in an unheated leanto a year or so back. No issues. I would put a small cup of water in occasionally to make sure it didnt dry out.

jonewer

You can plant out a potted tree at any time but its best to do it when dormant.

If the tree is root-bound you may need to free up the roots. This will cause some damage and increase the transplant shock, but the tree will do better in the long run.

If its a Cox, avoid damp or shady locations. They are notoriously difficult to grow well and are less than ideal as a garden variety.