Characteristics
It is a deciduous tree of fast growth. It is most appreciated for its spring blossom and its red fruits in autumn.
Location
Although it can cope with all types of climates, it grows better in direct sunlight. In summer it should be protected from the midday sun. In winter protect from temperatures below -2ºC.
Watering
When watering the soil take care to keep the flowers dry as water would cause them to dry up and fall off. Ensure the roots are not left in soil saturated with water.
Fertilization
Spring to autumn, avoiding when blossoming.
Re-potting
Every 2 years early spring.
Substrate
100% Akadama or mixed with 20% of volcanic clay.
Pruning and pinching
Pruning
After flowering, cut the twigs to two leaves when they have produced 6-8 leaves.
Pinching
Using the tweezers to prune back to 2 leaves after 6 to 8 leaves have grown. It is advisable to cut any excess fruits in winter.
Wiring
In spring.
Curiosities
The apple tree was well known in the Neolithic era.
Fructification can be encouraged by manually pollinating, using a fine brush, transferring pollen from the stamen on a flower to the stigma of another.
At Mistral Bonsai we sell a variety, selected for its high quantity of fructification and flowers. The fruit produced are tiny little apples in proportion with the size of the tree.