How to Plant Apple Trees for Deer

Planting apple trees specifically for deer can be a great way to attract these animals to your property. Apple trees provide both a source of food and cover for deer, making them an ideal choice for hunters or wildlife enthusiasts. Here are some tips on how to plant apple trees for deer:

1. Choose the Right Varieties

When selecting apple trees to plant for deer, it's important to choose the right varieties. Some of the best apple tree varieties for deer include:

Red Delicious

Cortland

Honeycrisp

Gala

Jonathan

These varieties are known for producing fruit that is particularly attractive to deer, and they are also generally hardy and disease-resistant.

2. Plant in the Right Place

The location of your apple trees is also important for attracting deer. Plant them in an area with a lot of sunlight and good drainage. Avoid planting them in low-lying areas where water may collect. Deer also prefer areas with some cover nearby, such as a wooded area or brushy field.

3. Provide Nutritious Soil

Apple trees for deer need rich soil that is nutrient-dense. Before planting your trees, consider adding compost or manure to the soil to provide the necessary nutrients. Also, make sure the soil has a pH between 6.0 and 7.0, which is ideal for growing apple trees.

4. Prune Regularly

To ensure healthy growth and a plentiful harvest of fruit, it's essential to regularly prune your apple trees. This allows for proper air circulation, which can prevent diseases from spreading, and also helps to encourage new growth.

5. Protect from Wildlife

While you want to attract deer to your apple trees, you don't want them to eat the fruit before it's ripe enough to harvest. Consider using a mesh or wire fence to prevent deer from accessing your apple trees, particularly during the first few years of growth. Also, it's a good idea to wrap the lower trunk of the tree with a protective guard to prevent damage from rubbing and browsing.

By following these tips, you can plant apple trees that will not only provide a nutritious food source for deer but also enhance the overall beauty and biodiversity of your property.