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The Multi-Tasking Tree

We are approaching summer, and apple trees are managing as many important tasks simultaneously as their growers are!

Apple fruitlets are growing by making more cells, responding to signals from the maturing seeds that were pollinated during bloom. At a later time, these cells will be filled with stored carbohydrates, which will eventually change to the sweetness and flavours that we enjoy at harvest. But the size and shape of each fruit is controlled right now, by the number of cells produced at this time.

As well, shoots are still growing, and have been since bloom or shortly afterwards. But elongation is now nearing completion. By the end of June, terminal buds will be set at the end of each shoot and shoot elongation will stop. This will signal a change in flow within the tree, as the tree begins to send carbohydrates to the roots for winter storage.

But the truly hidden task in fruit trees at this busy time of year is the on-going initiation of fruit buds for next year's crop. By mid-July, you can slice across a bud that is destined to be a fruit and actually see distinct flower parts (under a microscope). This emphasizes the importance of supplying proper levels of nutrients, water, and sunlight (through proper pruning) at this time. This also explains why early thinning will provide better return bloom next year - early removal of fruitlets prevents the tree from putting energy into unnecessary fruit growth, and instead, will direct its energy into creating fruit buds for next year's crop.

So have new respect for your apple trees, which may be the orginal multi-taskers. Remember of all these processes going on in your fruit trees now and until early July, and help your trees out by providing irrigation, foliar fertilizers and reducing the crop load as needed. Your report card will be how many flowers are produced next year.