How to revive apple tree with browning leaves?

MissWiggle

Hi,

3 year old apple tree (Paradise Apple) supposed to be good in SEQ.

This year, as it's trying to flower and fruit early… we've noticed it's leaves on some branches went grey on the underside, then the whole area would die off and go brown.

It seems to be spreading...

What is wrong and how do I fix?

JacobZ

Hi @MissWiggle,

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community, it is wonderful to have you with us.

Being a deciduous tree, your apple tree would naturally lose its leaves over winter. Given we're now right at the end of winter, I would normally expect most of last season's leaves to have fallen by this point, so the amount of grey-brown foliage still attached is certainly worth investigating. I can see there are leaves on the ground, so it may simply be that some are yet to drop, although this would be very late in the season to still be dropping leaves from last growing season. Did the leaves that are going brown now survive over the whole of the winter? Or are they newer growth that has wilted and browned?

From what I can see, the branches don't appear to be dead, but it would be worth checking. You can lightly scratch the bark on any branches you're concerned about. If it's green underneath, the branch is still alive. If it's dry and brown underneath, that would indicate that section has died back and it should be removed.

Unfortunately, the photos are a little too close to get a good idea of the tree's overall condition. Could you please take a couple from further back showing the entire tree, as well as a clear photo of the base of the trunk where it meets the soil? This will help us see whether the brown foliage is concentrated on particular branches and check for any obvious issues around the trunk. When we can get a better look of the overall plant, we will be better placed to diagnose the issue and offer solutions.

In the meantime, some general care will give the tree the best chance of putting on healthy new growth through spring. Make sure it is receiving adequate water and nutrients, and clear away any weeds, grass, mulch or other material immediately around the trunk so you can keep an eye on its condition. Any branches that are confirmed to be dead can be pruned back to healthy growth using clean tools. I'd also inspect the leaves, branches and trunk for obvious pest activity, such as scale or other sap-sucking insects, and address these if you find them.

Check out https://www.bunnings.com.au/diy-advice/garden/planting-and-growing/how-to-grow-and-prune-an-apple-tree for some guidance on general care.

I look forward to assisting further.

Jacob