How to Plant a Profusion Crabapple Tree

If you're looking for an ornamental tree that will stand out in your yard, you can't go wrong with a profusion crabapple. This tree produces pink to red blooms in the spring and small, flavorful fruit in the fall. Here's how to plant a profusion crabapple tree:

Choose the Right Location

A profusion crabapple tree needs full sun to thrive, so choose a location that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight every day. The tree also needs well-draining soil, so avoid areas that are prone to flooding or that have standing water. Make sure the location is large enough to accommodate a mature tree. A profusion crabapple can grow up to 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide.

Prepare the Soil

Before you plant your profusion crabapple tree, you'll need to prepare the soil. Dig a hole that's twice as wide as the tree's root ball and about a foot deeper. Mix the soil you removed from the hole with compost or well-rotted manure to create a nutrient-rich planting mixture.

Plant the Tree

Remove the tree from its container and carefully loosen any tangled roots. Place the tree in the hole so that the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Fill the hole with the soil mixture, tamping it down firmly to remove any air pockets. Water the tree thoroughly to help settle the soil around the roots.

Water and Mulch the Tree

After you've planted your profusion crabapple tree, it's important to water it regularly. During the first year, water the tree deeply every week to help establish a strong root system. After that, you can water it less frequently, but deeply, during dry spells. Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture in the soil and prevent weeds.

Prune the Tree

Once your profusion crabapple tree is established, you'll need to prune it annually to keep it healthy and looking its best. Wait until the tree has finished blooming in the spring, then remove any dead or damaged branches, as well as any suckers that are growing from the base of the tree. Thin out any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other, and trim back any branches that are growing too close to the ground or that are crowding the center of the tree.

Enjoy the Blooms and Fruit

With proper care and maintenance, your profusion crabapple tree will be a beautiful addition to your yard for many years to come. Enjoy the pink to red blooms in the spring, and the small, flavorful fruit in the fall. Your neighbors will be envious of your stunning tree!