Two years ago I planted 10 Semi-dwarf apple trees (Golden & Red Delicious). I have fenced them since planting but have not done much fertilizing, only spreading some lime and putting on some fertilizer left over from my food plots. Anyone have any recommendations on what I should or shouldn' t be doing now spring is nearing? Thanks

Two year old trees should have about 1-2 lbs of a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10 spread at the drip line of the tree. Do not overfertilize, or you will generate too much foliage growth at the expense of your fruit.

I agree with keyshunter. Don' t overfertilize, especially not too much nitrogen. If you apply too much nitrogen you' ll get large amounts of sucker growth, especially if you trim more than 10-20% of the branches off. The 1-2 lb. is even a little heavy compared to what I use. The best method at the point of growth that you' re at is to use a 6' diameter mulch of wood chips or straw/hay to keep the weeds down, the moisture up, the temperature moderate and the bacteria growing. About 1/2 lb (10-10-10) per inch of trunk diameter broadcast over the mulch should be adequite depending on your soil. It you have sod, the 1-2 lb is OK broadcast from 12" away from the tree trunk. Keep the grass mowed short (1-2" ).

Dan O.