Apples don't require the best drainage to survive so you can plant them on all soil types as long as they're not in standing water. Personally; I'd look for a loam soil with a slight slope. They don't mind cover crops as long as you keep the crop/grass mowed and fertilize enough for the tree and the cover crop. A study was done to determine how to get the best root growth from newly planted trees. Different size areas around the newly planted trees were mulched or sprayed. The results showed that the newly planted trees only put out roots as far as the grass was killed. It was like growing them in different size pots. It's recommended to mulch or spray a 6' diameter area around the trees after planting until they get established (3-5 years). After that, routine mowings will reduce the grass root competition while maintaining soil organic matter and minimizing erosion.

If your area gets approx. 30" of rainfall per year they should grow without irrigation. More rain will make the trees suseptible to mildew and scab.

I put tree guards on the trees to prevent rodents from chewing the bark. If deer start feeding on the limbs I hang a bar of soap in the trees. Other people put cages around them but I haven't had to in my area.

Dan O.