Apple Malus domestica 'Red Falstaff' (PBR) (D)

Water

When watering the apple tree, a thorough soaking is preferable to frequent light watering, ensuring the water penetrates deeply to reach the tree's roots. Newly planted apple trees require regular watering until they are established, which usually means weekly if there is no significant rainfall, providing about 1 to 2 gallons per watering depending on the tree size and soil conditions. Mature trees may need less frequent watering, but during prolonged dry spells, they should be watered every two weeks with approximately 2 to 4 gallons per session. Always check the soil moisture before watering to ensure the tree is not overwatered, as apple trees are susceptible to root rot. During the growing season, water needs may increase, especially for trees that are bearing fruit.

Light

Apple trees thrive in full sunlight, meaning they require at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. The Red Falstaff apple variety should be planted in a spot that gets full, unfiltered sun throughout the day to ensure optimal growth and fruit production. Avoid areas that are shaded by larger trees or buildings, as insufficient light can reduce fruit set and quality.

Temperature

Apple trees like Red Falstaff require a period of winter chill to break dormancy and produce fruit, which necessitates exposure to temperatures between 32°F and 45°F for a certain period of time. They can survive winter temperatures as low as -20°F, but flowers and fruit buds can be damaged if spring frosts occur when they are in bloom. The ideal growing temperatures during the growing season range from 60°F to 75°F. Avoid planting in locations susceptible to late spring frosts or where winter temperatures consistently fall below the survival threshold.

Pruning

Pruning apple trees, like the Red Falstaff, is essential for maintaining tree health, encouraging fruit production, and improving air circulation. Prune during the dormant season, late winter to early spring before new growth starts, which reduces the risk of infection and allows for clear observation of the tree's structure. Remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches to promote a strong framework of fruit-bearing spurs and ensure that sunlight penetrates the canopy. Pruning should be conducted annually, and for young trees, it is also important to shape the tree early on to establish a strong, productive form.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Red Falstaff apple tree prefers a well-drained, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A soil mix consisting of one part loam, one part sand or perlite, and one part compost or well-rotted manure will support healthy growth. Amend the soil with organic matter annually to maintain fertility and structure.

Repotting

Red Falstaff apple trees, being a type of apple, are not typically repotted as they are grown in the ground. However, if grown in a container, young trees should be repotted every 2-3 years to accommodate root growth. Mature trees may need repotting every 4-5 years or root pruning to manage their size.

Humidity & Misting

Apple trees like the Red Falstaff do not require specific humidity levels, as they are adaptable to the outdoor environment. Average outdoor humidity is generally suitable for their growth, and they do not have particular humidity needs when grown in their natural, outdoor conditions.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Not ideal for indoors; requires full sun, pollination, space.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, and provide regular watering.

• Hardiness zone

  4-8 USDA

Life cycle

Commonly known as the 'Red Falstaff' apple, its life cycle begins with germination where the seed starts to grow roots and a shoot after stratification (cold treatment). The seedling then develops into a young tree, establishing a strong root system and beginning to grow leaves and branches during its juvenile phase. As it matures, the Red Falstaff apple tree enters a phase of flowering and pollination, typically requiring cross-pollination with another apple variety for fruit set. Following successful pollination, the tree bears fruit, with apples developing and ripening over the summer months. Each apple contains seeds that have the potential to grow into new trees, thus continuing the cycle. After reaching full maturity, the tree may enter a period of decline, though it can live and be productive for several decades.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late winter

• The most popular method of propagating 'Red Falstaff' apple trees, a cultivar of Malus domestica, is through grafting. This technique typically takes place in late winter or early spring when the rootstocks are still dormant. The process involves taking a scion, which is a young shoot or twig with desirable characteristics from the 'Red Falstaff' apple tree, and joining it onto a compatible rootstock. The scion is carefully cut to have a sloping end, and a corresponding cut is made in the rootstock. The two pieces are then fitted together such that the vascular cambium tissues align, allowing the scion to fuse with the rootstock and establish a new tree. The graft union is sealed with grafting wax or tape to prevent drying out and protect from pathogens. With proper care, the grafted sapling will grow and eventually bear fruit that is true to the 'Red Falstaff' variety.