Well-groomed trees are the key to a good and healthy harvest. As a rule, apple picking occurs at the end of summer - autumn. Accordingly, during this period you need to take care of the apple tree and carry out a number of works on it.
Collection of carrion
After harvesting, in any case, there will be fallen apples around the tree, and diseased fruits may remain on the branches. All this must be collected and thrown away (or buried in the ground) so that the apple tree does not become infected.
Trimming branches
This item includes all dry branches, broken, diseased and those that grow inside the crown. This must be done so that the cuts are as smooth as possible. After completing the procedure, treat these areas with a solution of copper sulfate in a proportion of 1 tsp. per 1 liter of water, then apply soda water (use it to treat all cracks and other damage on the tree). Thanks to the treatment, tree fungal spores will not multiply. It is very important to carry out this manipulation in dry times!
Tillage
After all the carrion has been collected and the branches have been cut, you can begin to remove the fallen leaves and dig up the ground (to a depth of about 20 cm). It is loosened in order to freeze all the insects that hibernate in the soil, and with the onset of heat they wake up and spoil the tree. Next, carry out the mulching process (adding compost or manure to the soil).
Top dressing
This is necessary in order to enrich the soil, and the apple tree receives more nutrients.The most popular fertilizers are potassium and phosphorus. You can either buy them ready-made or prepare them yourself. It is better to avoid nitrogen fertilizers during this period, because they promote the rapid growth of new shoots, which will simply freeze out in cold weather.
Removing moss and lichens
Before wintering, be sure to inspect the entire apple tree for the presence of these pests. They grow quickly and prevent the flow of air to the tree, causing the branches to dry out. Lichens can move from one tree to another. They are removed using any scraper (preferably plastic), and then processed as when cutting branches.
Whitewash
Protects the trunk from rodents and the winter sun harmful to trees. The easiest way is to buy ready-made whitewash in a store, but you can prepare it yourself (for 5 liters of water, 250 g of copper sulfate, 1.5 kg of lime, 100 g of wood glue).
Insulation of trunks
Just like whitewashing protects against pests, but at the same time it also protects the tree well from severe frosts. The fabric for these purposes must be breathable (for example, burlap). Wrap the trunk tightly and secure with twine or tape. If whitewashing was not used, then the material should go onto the soil so that pests do not get through.
It is recommended to carry out all manipulations after picking the apples, but before all the leaves fall off (in order to have time before frost). After all these measures, the apple tree will be able to fully relax, gain strength and reward it with a high-quality and healthy harvest next season.
