How to treat apple tree in winter?

Mohali123

  

Hi all, I am in Melbourne currently going through winters. We had this triple grafted apple tree appx 1.5 years old now showing most leaves Turning yellow, dropping as well but I am sending some photos,? Also fungal infested ? I am a new low interest gardener, let me know what to do . Thanks

EricL

Hello @Mohali123 

Thanks for sharing the photos of your apple tree and giving a bit of background. What you're seeing is actually quite common for apple trees in Melbourne at this time of year. Since it's winter, it's completely natural for deciduous trees like apples to shed their leaves. The yellowing and dropping you're noticing is likely just part of the normal seasonal cycle. That said, the blackened and brown patches on the leaves in your photo do suggest a fungal issue, possibly something like apple scab or another leaf spot fungus. These diseases thrive in cool, damp conditions, which are typical in Melbourne winters.

The good news is that you don’t need to panic. Since the tree is entering dormancy, you’re at a great point to tidy things up and prepare for healthy regrowth in spring. Remove and dispose of any fallen leaves or badly affected foliage from around the base of the tree, as these can harbour fungal spores. Do not compost them. This will help reduce reinfection next season. When the tree is bare in late winter, consider applying a copper-based fungicide spray, which helps kill off any lingering fungal spores before new growth begins. These are widely available and easy to use, and you’ll find helpful instructions on the label.

Since this is a triple grafted apple tree and still relatively young, you’ll want to keep an eye on overall health. Make sure the base is mulched to conserve moisture and regulate temperature, but keep mulch clear of the trunk. Come early spring, a feed with a balanced organic fruit tree fertilizer will give it a good boost. For now, there’s no need to water frequently unless there’s a prolonged dry spell, as roots are mostly dormant.

It’s great that you’re paying attention to the tree even as a new gardener. A bit of winter care now will go a long way, and with time you’ll find this part of the garden becomes much easier to manage. If you notice anything worsening in early spring, feel free to take another photo then and follow up.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric