![]() The rootstock and the scion retain their own genes so effectively each new tree is a clone. So all the Bramleys are from one tree in Nottingham which was grown from a single seed in about 1810! The technique of grafting has been known since ancient times, in China from 2000BC. To propagate the new tree you need to take a cutting (scion) and graft it onto a suitable rootstock e.g the M9. So if you plant the seed of a Bramley you will not get another Bramley. Apples are genetically extremely heterozygous and so do not breed true. In Nottingham in the 19th century a single seed generated a tree with apples of a superb taste – a Bramley. The National Fruit Collection at Brogdale, Kent lists more than 2200 varieties of apples in its database.Īpples have 34 chromosomes so when pollinated they get 17 from one parent and 17 from another. There are apples suitable for eating, cooking or even making cider. The original ancestor has been improved through selection and cross breeding so that there are now more than 7000 varieties worldwide. Cultivation began more than 2000 years ago. On the other hand, lots of people just grow crab apple trees for their ornamental value as their apples provide a beautiful pop of color through the colder months.The Orchard Apple Malus domestica, sometimes called the Cultivated Apple, is believed to have originated from a wild species ( Malus seversii) that grows in central Asia. However, it is a different story when they are used for cooking - crab apple jelly is particularly delicious and lots of people learn how to plant crab apple trees just so that they can make their own jelly. Yes, you can eat crab apples right off the tree, though unlike traditional eating apples they won't be particularly delicious and are rather bitter. Can you eat crab apples right off the tree? 'Crab apple trees covered in bee-attracting blossom or colored fruit look wonderful in a copse underplanted with woodland favorites,' recommends Period Living's garden expert Leigh Clapp. There are also plenty of different options for landscaping around trees that will result in beautiful backyard ideas. You can plant primroses, hostas and both spring and fall bulbs under crab apple trees and they will create a beautiful display that will perfectly complement your tree. (Image credit: Getty Images) What can I plant under crab apple trees? Once secured and the soil is firmed in, give your crab apple tree a generous watering and then cover the top of the soil with a layer of mulch. Having firmed in the crab apple tree, then tie the tree to the stake using a tree tie – this step is essential to get right as if you tie it too tightly then the tie will rub the tree and can cause wounds that may introduce infection. 'Plant your crab apple tree slightly proud of the surface to create a bit of a cone of soil around the trunk,' recommends gardening expert Monty Don in this Gardener's World video. Having placed your tree in the center of the hole, then fill in with soil. The final step in learning how to plant crab apple trees is putting the tree into the hole. ![]() Position your stake just off-center of the planting hole and hammer into place. Be sure to insert your stake before planting your crab apple tree to avoid damaging the trees roots. Staking is essential when learning how to plant crab apple trees as it will support the tree and help it to grow upright. (Image credit: Getty Images) Stake the crab apple for support Having selected the location, dig a hole wider than the trees pot or root spread – doing so will encourage your crab apple trees roots to spread out and as such result in a more stable and sturdy plant. If you have never grown a tree from bare root, then be sure to read up on how to plant bare root trees before you begin. when out foraging apple blossoms, tend to stay with the same colour. Crab apples are best planted as bare root varieties and as such you should plant your crab apple tree between November and March. Crab apples are usually regarded as ornamentals that are mainly used as garden. Picking a crabapple tree is a bit of a challenge, however, because this versatile tree is available in a tremendous range of flower color, leaf color, fruit color, size, and shape. Learning how to plant crab apple trees is very similar to learning how to plant apple trees. ![]() If you're looking for how to plant crab apple trees, then this is where the practical planting begins. However, if you are battling clay soils then don't worry as crab apples are also one of the best trees for clay soil. 'Crab apples like a sunny spot with moist, well-draining soil, and will grow well in containers,' says Period Living gardening expert Leigh Clapp, and as such crab apple trees are a great addition to container garden ideas. There are several factors to consider when researching the best location for planting crab apple trees. (Image credit: Getty Images) Choose the best location to plant a crab apple tree
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