Apple 'Merton Charm' Malus domestica 'Merton Charm' (D)

Water

The apple tree variety Malus domestica 'Merton Charm', commonly known as 'Merton Charm' apple, requires consistent moisture, especially during the first growing season to establish a deep root system. Water young trees once a week with about 5 gallons per application if there has been no significant rainfall. Mature trees may require less frequent watering but should receive around 10 gallons every 10 to 14 days during dry spells. Always check the soil moisture before watering; the soil should be moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overhead watering to minimize disease risk.

Light

'Merton Charm' apple trees thrive in full sun, which means they should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Choose a spot in the garden or orchard that is not shaded by taller buildings or trees to ensure your 'Merton Charm' receives adequate light for optimal growth and fruit production.

Temperature

'Merton Charm' apple trees can generally tolerate a wide range of temperatures but perform best when the growing season temperatures are within 60°F to 75°F. They can survive winter lows to around -20°F, though flowers and fruit may be damaged by late frosts. The ideal temperature range for growing and fruit set is above freezing and below 90°F.

Pruning

Pruning the 'Merton Charm' apple tree is important for maintaining its health, encouraging fruit production, and managing its shape. The best time for pruning is late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches to promote good air circulation. Thinning out some of the new growth each year also allows light to reach the inner canopy, which is beneficial for fruiting.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Apple trees, including the 'Merton Charm', thrive in well-draining loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of equal parts garden soil, compost, and sand or perlite can promote healthy growth.

Repotting

Apple trees like 'Merton Charm' are not commonly repotted as they are typically planted outdoors. If grown in pots, they should be repotted every 2-3 years to provide fresh soil and room for growth.

Humidity & Misting

Apple trees such as 'Merton Charm' tolerate a wide range of humidity levels and do not require specific humidity conditions to thrive, as they are adaptable to outdoor environments.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Grow 'Merton Charm' apple in a large pot, with ample light and room to grow.

• Outdoor

  Plant 'Merton Charm' apple in full sun, well-drained soil, and provide ample water.

• Hardiness zone

  4-8 USDA

Life cycle

Malus domestica 'Merton Charm', commonly known as a variety of apple tree, begins its life as a seed, which requires stratification—chilling in cold, moist conditions to break dormancy. Upon germination, the seedling emerges from the soil, sending out roots and a shoot that develops into a small tree. As the apple tree matures, it undergoes vegetative growth including the development of leaves, branches, and a sturdy trunk; this stage may last several years before it reaches fruit-bearing maturity. Flowering occurs annually in the spring, with blossoms pollinated by bees, leading to the development of fruit. The fruits, apples, mature over the summer and are typically ready for harvest in late summer to fall. Finally, the tree enters a period of dormancy during the winter, where growth pauses until the following spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The apple variety known as Malus domestica 'Merton Charm', commonly referred to as the apple tree, is most commonly propagated through grafting. This technique is preferred due to its ability to maintain the specific characteristics of the cultivar. In grafting, a piece of stem containing a bud, called a scion, is taken from the desired 'Merton Charm' apple tree and attached to a rootstock that has been cultivated for its robust root system. The best time to graft apple trees is in late winter to early spring before they enter their active growth phase, when the sap begins to flow. The cut surfaces of the scion and rootstock are matched together and securely bound with grafting tape. Lastly, the grafted joint is sealed with grafting wax or a sealant to prevent desiccation and infection, allowing the tissues of the scion and rootstock to fuse as the plant begins to grow.