Columnar Apple Tree Rhapsodie - Malus domestica

<strong>Apple trees offer such a choice of varieties, of forms</strong>, - columnar, erect to spreading -, <strong>and of vigour</strong>, from 1 m for container planting to over 10 m, <strong>and are used freely in all kinds of landscaping</strong>. In addition to their exceptional hardiness (-30°C), <strong>these trees produce a sumptuous white tinged with pink to bright pink flowering in April–May and fruits with varied flavours</strong> that can be eaten fresh or cooked as desired. Some apple varieties known as storage varieties also have the advantage of being edible almost until spring without processing. <strong>These trees prefer mild, misty climates</strong>, <strong>apart from recent varieties</strong> <strong>adapted to hot, dry climates</strong> of southern France. <strong>The apple tree is easier to grow than the pear tree</strong> thanks to later flowering and better tolerance of lime (up to 15% active lime). It can be positioned north-facing in southern France, except for espalier forms which should face south-east or south-west. <strong>Malus domestica prefers heavy, clayey, fertile and cool but well-drained soils</strong>. Quality of harvests depends on presence of a pollinating variety, soil fertility and also regularity of pruning or training. However, S-pur type varieties (columnar or sparsely branched) and open-grown varieties (free habit) need little or no pruning, so it is very easy even for an inexperienced gardener to obtain a good harvest. The only drawback is the number of diseases and pests able to affect apple trees, victims of their own success. But <strong>significant agronomic research efforts now make it possible to choose varieties resistant, notably to scab</strong> if you live in a particularly humid climate. It is important to consider vigour and rootstock tolerance to your soil if you wish to train your apple tree as a cordon or palmette or, conversely, obtain a large open-grown tree. Buying a tree already trained (standard, goblet, palmette...) represents a greater investment than buying a simple whip (1-year stem little or not branched) but saves a lot of time before fruiting!