Two days before feeding, water the soil thoroughly—4–5 buckets per tree. This will prevent the roots from being burned by the fertilizer. After harvesting, do a deep watering. The soil should be moistened to a depth of 90–100 cm. If possible, water with 2 buckets daily for a week, but only if the autumn is dry. In rainy weather, watering is not necessary.

Cover to prevent freezing

After feeding, mulch the tree circle with peat or compost in a 3–4 cm layer. The mulch will retain moisture and protect the roots from frost. The trunks of young trees are wrapped with pine branches or netting for winter to protect them from rodents.

Answers to popular questions about September apple tree care

Can I use manure in autumn for apple trees?

Fresh manure and chicken droppings are not allowed. They contain nitrogen, which will stimulate the growth of shoots. Only well-rotted compost or humus can be used. And even then, it's better to apply it as mulch rather than as the main fertilizer.

How many times should I feed an apple tree in September?

Two times with an interval of 10–14 days is sufficient. The first feeding is from September 10 to 25, the second in early October. More is not better. Excess fertilizer is as harmful as a deficiency.

Why don't fertilizers work if I pour them under the trunk?

Because the apple tree's absorbing roots are not located at the trunk, but along the perimeter of the crown. Under the trunk are only the thick, conducting roots, which do not absorb nutrients. You are pouring where there are no roots, and then you are surprised that the tree is hungry. September is not a time to relax. This is the month when you secure next year's harvest. Exclude nitrogen, provide phosphorus and potassium, water to a depth of a meter, mulch the soil. Do it now. If you miss it, the tree will go into winter hungry, and in spring it will give small, sour apples or none at all.

Check the tree circle tomorrow morning. If it's dry, water it. If the leaves have fallen, mulch it. If you haven't fed it yet, take a bucket and do it today. The apple tree does not forgive indifference. But it thanks for care with a harvest that will last for compotes, preserves, and for sharing with your neighbors. The choice is yours.

Belnovosti