How Many Feet Apart Should Apple Trees Be Planted?

If you're planning to start an apple orchard, you're probably asking yourself the question, "how many feet apart should apple trees be planted?" The answer largely depends on the variety of apple tree you're planting, the type of rootstock it is on, and the growing conditions of your orchard. In this article, we'll dive into the factors to consider when spacing your apple trees and provide some general guidelines to help get you started.

Variety of Apple Tree

Apple trees come in a variety of sizes, from dwarf trees that grow only 6-8 feet tall to standard trees that tower 20-30 feet in height. The size of your apple tree will determine how close you can plant it to other trees. Dwarf apple trees can be spaced as close as 5-6 feet apart, whereas standard trees need to be spaced 18-30 feet apart to allow for their size and root system.

Type of Rootstock

The rootstock is the part of the tree that determines its size and vigor. A rootstock that produces a smaller tree will allow you to plant your apple trees closer together. The two most common rootstocks for apple trees are dwarfing rootstocks and semi-dwarfing rootstocks. Dwarfing rootstocks produce trees that are 6-8 feet tall, while semi-dwarfing rootstocks produce trees that are 12-15 feet tall. If you're using a dwarfing rootstock, you can plant your apple trees as close as 5-6 feet apart, whereas if you're using a semi-dwarfing rootstock, you'll need to space your trees 12-15 feet apart.

Growing Conditions

The growing conditions of your orchard will also affect how close apart you can plant your apple trees. If your orchard is in an area with fertile soil and abundant rainfall, you can plant your trees closer together than if you're in an area with poor soil and little rainfall. Trees that are planted too close together can compete for nutrients and water, which can stunt their growth and reduce fruit production.

Another factor to consider is the slope of your orchard. If your orchard is on a steep slope, you may need to space your trees farther apart to prevent soil erosion and ensure that each tree gets enough sunlight and water.

General Guidelines

Here are some general guidelines to follow when spacing your apple trees:

Dwarf apple trees on dwarfing rootstocks: 5-6 feet apart

Semi-dwarf apple trees on semi-dwarfing rootstocks: 12-15 feet apart

Standard apple trees on standard rootstocks: 18-30 feet apart

Keep in mind that these are just general guidelines, and you'll need to take into account the variety of apple tree, type of rootstock, and growing conditions of your orchard when deciding how far apart to plant your trees. Consulting with a professional who specializes in apple orchard management can also be helpful in determining the best spacing for your orchard.

Conclusion

So, how many feet apart should apple trees be planted? The answer depends on several factors, including the variety of apple tree, type of rootstock, and growing conditions of your orchard. By taking these factors into account and following some general guidelines, you can ensure that your apple trees have enough space to grow and thrive, resulting in a bountiful harvest for years to come.