Grow Apple Trees in Pots (Columnar Apples)

[@kenbelanger528]

I want him to be the voice on all my audio books. Great info as always.

[@anchorageprepper9008]

Looking forward to seeing your trees fruit and hear how they taste. Good luck!

[@sandyk6828]

Gardener Scott, have you posted a follow up video to this? I'd love to see what they look like today and how you pruned them after their first winter.

[@GardenerScott]

I haven't. The deer discovered the trees and ate them to nubs. I've replanted and covered with netting recently. A follow up video should be coming next year.

[@kfx216]

@@GardenerScott Any update? Deer are relentless, especially the moment you drop your guard.

[@Texas4x]

In North Central Texas, we can grow some varieties of apples but besides the scorching summer heat, required chilling hours can be a problem.

[@heidiclark6612]

Thank Your this information about column apple trees. I looked at those a few years ago but was not sure where I could plant them. Knowing that they can be planted in pots is a game changer. I will check them out again.

[@geoffoutdoors]

This is fantastic i have wanted to plant apple trees in more of a micro setting .. thank you!

[@maxsmith5984]

Another wonderful video Gardener Scott! As an advance gardener, I always find useful bits of info from an expert gardener like you. Thank you. :)

[@TheEnglishladyskitchengarden]

I've just ordered some trees exactly like that. I ordered two plums two apples and a pear for the grand total of £19.99. They are a total bargain and I ordered two sets so ten tree in total

[@OMGAnotherday]

That’s an amazing Bargin! May I ask where you got them? I’ve got a very small garden.

[@behindblueyes]

Yes where did you get these?

[@TheEnglishladyskitchengarden]

@@behindblueyes A company called Gardening Express. They are due to be delivered some time in the next few days so I will video them when they arrive.

[@carlita3341]

How did they work for you?

[@Thorny_Misanthrope]

I’m in zone 9B, California’s Central Valley. Apple trees don’t do well over summer without shade, and an apple tree in a pot could never survive a season. I’m not an expert, but that’s been my experience. I tried growing a grapefruit tree in a pot about four years ago, and it’s still recovering (after putting it in the ground).

[@LayneXIII]

I will be getting a few of these immediately! Thank you 👍🏼

[@kat6084]

Do other trees have varieties like this, such a pear or peach? Also, I totally love that peacock figure. I need one of those!

[@GardenerScott]

There are some stone fruits that are small with vertical branches, but not quite columnar like the apples.

[@lesliescully3544]

Are there other types of fruit columnar trees?

[@JonnyPeace07]

Hey Scott, I’m a new watcher. I was just wondering what climate zone do you live in?

[@TheSamba37]

Welcome to the channel. I believe he's 5b in Colorado with something close to 100 growing degree days.

[@GardenerScott]

I'm in 5b.

[@JonnyPeace07]

@@GardenerScott Thanks!

[@jnorth3341]

I'll have to see if I can find those up here (I'm all the way north, zone 2), Costco has some trees they say are good for zone two, might try them as I won't be out more then I can loose if they don't work.

[@mylittlerebornlove8851]

I'd like to see an update on this and see how much fruit you get in the future.

[@GardenerScott]

You can expect to see that video in a couple years.

[@Rohvannyn]

Thank you for sharing this! I too would love to see how they grow. I also like your garden plan and how you combine beauty with function. Now to see if I can find any columnar apple varieties that might survive in Tucson - I'm not too hopeful though. This is a great idea for folks who want to grow fruit on a small scale.

[@SuperWhatapain]

This is great information! Thank you!😁

[@jean-pierreposman7282]

Hello Scott soon i make a video about my garden . First thing to do is planting all my seedlings flowers and more and remember : i have it all because of you !!! How many yaers last a tree in a pot ? When is the sign to put it in full ground ? And id you put it in full ground don't the roots not stay in the amended soil you created in the pot ?

[@GardenerScott]

The tree should last at least 10 years in a pot. If it struggles and does not to well it may be better in the ground. Yes, the roots tend to stay in amended soil, so regular soil is better. I look forward to your video.

[@jean-pierreposman7282]

@@GardenerScott I make the video in July when everything grow and blooms and I place it on the Facebook page of you . My householdhelpster will tape me and my resque dog Raya when we do a little gardentour arround the house my back , side and frontyard . Thank you for you're answers and I see you Monday eve at 17.00h . ( morning for you ) thank you and see you then . Greetings from Belgium

[@bobmarshall9545]

Would you recommend that I put the columnar apple trees, in large pots, on my garden drip system, or a seperate watering system?

[@GardenerScott]

It depends on your setup. As long as they get enough water, do what is easiest for you.

[@lillyg88]

Thanks for this video. Wish I had this last year. I have 12 fruit trees I planted last year in pots. But I’ve got two new trees I have yet to pot up into bigger pots. This was very helpful. Thank you.

[@ynot4219]

The biggest problem with growing apple trees in pots is the pot itself. The roots are easily damaged by heat in the summer and in the winter the tempereture fluctuations are even worse for the tree. To protect the roots: Paint the pot with white colour and put in shady place in winter to prevent the tree from "waking up".

[@lastchancemonicam3948]

There aren't any apple trees that grow in my subtropical environment- I wish. I'm trying to grow rose apples- neither apples nor pears- but they're my favorite fruit.

[@SuadPhotography]

Great video... leaving me hopeful to grow apple and fruit trees in containers. What size pot did you use?

[@GardenerScott]

They are about 18 inches deep and 22 inches wide.

[@SuadPhotography]

@@GardenerScott Thank you!

[@mariahur8370]

Good to know

[@maureen240]

What are the apples like and how big are they? Are they normal size or smaller? Are they crisp ?mealy, similar to a McIntosh or Jonathan Winesap.??

[@starwoan5970]

Many Thxs for this video and all the time, effort and monetary expenditures involved!So, would you please tell me what size pots are you using?

[@GardenerScott]

The pots are about 17" tall and wide.

[@val2937]

You'll enjoy your trees. Here in Eastern Ontario we have a very limited choice of columnar apple varieties. I have five trees of various ages. One year, two of them produced a total of fifty-seven edible apples (critters got the rest). They do need pruning to keep their columnar shape (otherwise they begin to grow tree-like). I have recently read that they fruit for only eight to ten years - hopefully that was an inaccurate article.

[@sjk7314]

I have not heard of these types of trees. Do you have a link to their names and where you purchased them? Thank you, from a Global Gardener in Wisconsin:)

[@GardenerScott]

There are a number of nurseries that sell them. I got mine from Stark Bros.

[@Aida3and8]

Thank you.

[@JB-tv2wp]

What size are the pots?

[@GardenerScott]

They are 19" deep and 22" wide.

[@JB-tv2wp]

@@GardenerScott thank you!

[@dinacg3714]

Hi, thanks for the info, where did you get them? Do you have an update on those trees? Thanks you

[@GardenerScott]

I got them from Stark Bros. They were eaten by deer early his year so I'll have to replace them to show how they grow.

[@dinacg3714]

Thank you for responding to me. I’m sorry that your trees is gone. I hope a successful new plants:)

[@smaflenna]

Do they need any special care to protect them from the winter?

[@GardenerScott]

It depends on your Hardiness Zone. Zone 6 and below may need protection or moving to a sheltered spot.

[@sherriegreenwood9313]

Where did you get your trees from, please? And do you have to have 2 different type for pollination?

[@GardenerScott]

I got mine from Stark Bros. I do have two different varieties for pollination.

[@sandy-rr1by]

@@GardenerScott I was really impressed with the packing job they did, still wet when arrived!!! I put my two in half-55gallon drums. They have already leafed out and one has a tiny apple already! I would like to have plum columnar trees, but they don't seem to exist. I didn't put holes in bottom of container, but about 3/4" up the side.

[@Bruiserboy1]

Great video, interested in what pruning is required for columnar fruit trees if any??

[@GardenerScott]

They require minimal pruning. Because their branches stay close to the main trunk, only a few branches grow long enough to need pruning.

[@bradymcphail9690]

Hello Sir, Would using a real large Grow Bag with its “Air Pruning” capabilities work will with these type of trees? I’m thinking that these type of trees are not a super long producing tree?

[@GardenerScott]

A grow bag can work but It may need replacing in time because it may break down. These types of trees are relatively new, but I understand they should produce for at least 10 years.

[@bradymcphail9690]

@@GardenerScott teall

[@loganc4233]

Thanks!

[@Bluebell_uk]

Thank you Gardener Scott. Just got a red falstaff miniature tree (m27 rootstock) but it didn't come with any details on how to care for it /type of soil/compost. Could I use the straw that was wrapped round it to protect the tree as a mulch?

[@GardenerScott]

You can.

[@Bluebell_uk]

@@GardenerScott thank you

[@evonnewaters4927]

Thank you. This sounds perfect for me. Where did you purchase them?

[@GardenerScott]

I got mine from Stark Bros, but there are other nurseries that sell them.

[@robb5984]

I'm curious about the method to produce a tree like this. It's fascinating. Is it possible to create a pear tree like this, as well?

[@GardenerScott]

The key is that apples fruit on short spurs and the genetics of these trees support the spurs growing close together. Pears also fruit on spurs and I bet growers are trying to develop a columnar pear tree..

[@rickcampbell2814]

Can you tell me please where you got your columnar trees from?

[@GardenerScott]

I got mine from Stark Bros.

[@cynthiablanton9106]

I couldn’t get any this year 😢

[@DaBuDaSak]

Do you let the top 1 or 2 inches dry first or so you keep it constantly moist?

[@GardenerScott]

I try to keep the soil consistently moist, but do allow the top inch to dry between watering.

[@marcusandrepont8916]

Do you have source to recommend for large heavy duty (35-45 gallon size) nursery type pots to grow a small tree or shrub like blueberries?

[@GardenerScott]

Here's where I get most of my pots but I'm not sure if they have pots that big: www.greenhousemegastore.com/collections/plant-pots

[@marcusandrepont8916]

@@GardenerScott Thank You.

[@nicholasdemarest4254]

I am planting 3 columnar apples now. could you show a proper pruning of yours in the winter or spring? thanks. I am planting my trees in ground.

[@GardenerScott]

As mine grow I will have pruning and harvesting videos in the future.

[@nicholasdemarest4254]

where did you get your trees from? I purchased mine from Stark Brothers nursery

[@billbottoms8295]

Do they need to go indoor during winter? How do I winterize the trees?

[@GardenerScott]

it depends on how harsh your winters are. Zone 7 should be okay outside, but I plan to store them in my Zone 5 garage.

[@A347baker]

@@GardenerScott I live in zone 5b as well. What do you think of a blueberry bush in a container? Should it be put in the garage as well or dies it survive outside?

[@bobmarshall9545]

Hello: I bought a couple of columnar apple trees. I have 2 rectangle plastic pots that are 13.5 inches wide and 28 inches tall. I want to know what your opinion is on using these pots for the columnar apple trees. I'm concerned they are not wide or deep enough for the roots. I'm planning on putting these into a deck that I'm building with the deck surrounding the pots. The pots will be buried about 16 inches into the deck, with about 12 inches above the deck level. What do you think Scott?

[@GardenerScott]

I think it's worth a try. They may be a bit small and that might affect their growth. But keeping them a little smaller may work for you.

[@petrisorserdaru4309]

Will the tree not going to rot if planting deeper than the planting level ?

[@GardenerScott]

If the graft union is too deep it can rot, but moist soil shouldn't pose a problem if it is a little deeper than the original pot.

[@petrisorserdaru4309]

@@GardenerScott the reason I'm asking is because I'm in this situation now😁 you are right the compost level went down 10 cm. Is it to.much to add 10 cm of soil?

[@GardenerScott]

@@petrisorserdaru4309 You can add that much but you may want to do it a little at a time and not all at once.

[@petrisorserdaru4309]

@@GardenerScott thank you

[@lesliescully3544]

What size pot are you using?

[@GardenerScott]

It is about 18" deep and 22" wide.

[@RichardRahn-p8c]

I got two columnar apple trees one died next spring they will replace it but both trees where only about a foot tall . They said they will get six to eight foot tall .your tree looks like it's about twice mine in length. How does it grow taller .mine are planted in ground .I soak the trees for hours and had the soil soaked when I planted in them and watered them every day for the first month .I need more information on how to grow them and how to take care of the trees . Thanks sincerely Rick

[@GardenerScott]

Mine were taller when I received them. Too much water can drown the roots and hinder growth.

[@havefaithinthegardener5939]

I live in Windsor Colo. Do you suggest bringing these trees in the garage or shed in the winter months?

[@GardenerScott]

While they might survive our winters, I am planning to bring mine into the garage, just for a little extra protection.

[@ChocoTacoMan]

@@GardenerScott like OC, I live in the same area. Dumb question: these would do just fine in ground, correct (with proper soil amendments, of course)? Thank you!

[@GardenerScott]

@@ChocoTacoMan That's not a dumb question. Yes, they would do fine in the ground, depending on the material they're made from. Some might freeze and crack.

[@rushon12]

What size is that pot? Diameter?

[@GardenerScott]

It's 22 inches.

[@stephenluna7932]

what material do you use for the humus? I've heard that term but I don't quite understand what it is. I thought it was just another term for broken down organic matter like compost. So I'm confused since you mentioned both compost and humus

[@GardenerScott]

I get it as part of a mix from a local company. It is a term used for many products, but this one is compost that is fully decomposed, as opposed to the basic compost that is still chunky.

[@lesliescully3544]

How often do they need to watered?

[@GardenerScott]

It depends on your climate. In my dry region, it's usually 2-3 times per week. There are other fruit trees sold as columnar, but these type of apples are the only ones that are a true column.

[@lesliescully3544]

@@GardenerScott thank you. I am in the same area as you. Will you also water 2-3 times in the winter?

[@GardenerScott]

When the ground freezes it is no longer necessary to water. When temps warm, once a week may be enough in early spring.

[@lesliescully3544]

@@GardenerScott thank you.

[@lesliescully3544]

Can you buy humus?

[@GardenerScott]

I have seen some bags, but there are no clear definitions of what it really is. My local landscape company sells fully decomposed compost as humus, mixed with other ingredients.

[@Dankapotamus918]

My columnar apples never really did too good for me. I’ve had them for about 3 years and they are huge but don’t produce as much as I would like and at the end of season are prone to disease for me in Oklahoma.

[@brianseybert2189]

Would not grow bags be better than pots? When I rehydrate roots I use a worm tea extract. I would also add some microrrizahal fungi to increase the root surface area. I am sure your trees will do fine, you have been gardening for many years. Who am I to say.

[@GardenerScott]

You can use grow bags but I'm not sure how long they last before the fabric begins to break down. Rehydrating with worm tea is a good idea. I expect I'll use worm tea and comfrey tea during watering.

[@brianseybert2189]

@@GardenerScott Good point on the longevity of the grow bags.

[@reneejmj]

Where can you buy these trees?

[@GardenerScott]

There are a number of online nurseries that sell them.

[@gingereast1788]

How big is your pot?

[@GardenerScott]

It is about 18" wide and 20" tall.

[@Scott3387]

Only problem is the cost of the pots. Pots that size can cost 2-5x the cost of the tree.

[@brianseybert2189]

Use a grow bag.

[@tranthiduyen615]

Xin chào bạn,bạn đang trồng cây gì vậy ?

[@GardenerScott]

Chúng là những cây táo nhỏ.

[@tranthiduyen615]

@@GardenerScott bạn thật tuyệt vời quá,tôi rất thích.

[@nathanaelstunt7317]

❤️

[@dwaynewladyka577]

Unfortunately, apples don't agree with me, so I can't eat them. Regardless, this is a pretty good way of growing apples.

[@Cooky00123]

So all the KZbinrs start coming out with columnar apple tree videos, and all the vendors are sold out.

[@pierreshasta1480]

Hi Scott, I really like your videos, but please, out of respect for nature, and to help protect it, don't advise the use of peat moss anymore. Regarding water retention, peat moss can be replaced by vermiculite.

[@brianseybert2189]

I have had great results with leaf mold. Started all my seeds and used it in all my potting mixes. I will never purchase peat again.

[@matthewkurt2246]

From what I understand, European peat is at low levels, but Canadian peat bogs are growing faster than they can be harvested. Canadian peat is more than sustainable and will be for many years to come. Out of respect for nature, maybe help out by not driving a car and not using coal-fired electricity which contribute to climate change, which is part of the reason why peat bogs aren't flourishing. My house runs on solar and I ride my e-bike to work. Coco coir may be an option for peat. Scott has been doing an excellent job of respecting nature and he proves it in every video. Besides, I think his knowledge of nature is greater than just about anyone's that replies here.

[@pierreshasta1480]

@@matthewkurt2246 Scott is an excellent gardener, and I sometimes take him as an example in comments I write (gardening youtube channels in Europe). But I think he should warn his community, as Kevin (Epic Gardening) did, about the harmful effects of using peat. In Europe, the UK has passed a law banning the use of peat in gardening for individuals, and soon it will be banned for professionals as well. In France 50% of the peat bogs have been destroyed in only 60 years, it is a big ecological problem.

[@GardenerScott]

Thanks, Pierre. I have an older video where I warn about the issues with peat in Europe, but also the advantages of using Canadian peat for the U.S. It's probably time to revisit that.