Growing and Care of Pome Fruits

LINKS TO RESOURCES

UCANR California Backyard Orchard Website

Pruning Fruit Trees   UCANR California Backyard Orchard

Dave Wilson Nursery Fruit Tree Information and Videos

UC IPM Website  Cultural Care, Pests and Diseases

Cultural Care for Apple, Pear, Quince Schedule of Care

APPLES

Fortunately, in many areas of California apples are successfully grown. Foggy days and dews can cause cosmetic russetting on the fruit. There are hundreds of apple varieties each with it's own characteristics. Nearly all varieties require cross-pollination from another variety that blooms at the same time and produces abundant, viable pollen.  Many varieties are self-fruitful meaning not all of their pollen is viable.  Very few actually are self-fruited. For the red-skinned varieties, cool climates are ideal for them to achieve their coloration. 

Winter chilling requirements (below 45 degrees F):

Most varieties: 500-1000 hours 
Low-chill varieties: 300-600 hours

Pruning Apple Trees Demonstration 15 minutes