Apple tree no longer thriving - Ask Extension
In 2017 or 2018 I planted two apple trees, Haralson and Honeycrisp, In 2022 both trees produced a wonderful crop. Since then, the Haralson tree has co...
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Apple tree no longer thriving #878500
Asked July 23, 2024, 9:02 PM EDT
In 2017 or 2018 I planted two apple trees, Haralson and Honeycrisp, In 2022 both trees produced a wonderful crop. Since then, the Haralson tree has continued to grow, and has dozens of fruit this year. However, the Honeycrisp has not grown since then, and appears to be dying off. See photos. I removed about 12 inches of top of main stem in May since leaves were brown and seemed to be dying. This branch continues to have more dead leaves. The tree has about 1 dozen very small apples. The trees are part of a small garden I established in an old barnyard; very rich soil and producing wonderful vegetable crops. Note: I have quit planting root crops (potatoes, carrots, etc) becuase pocket gophers enjoyed them too much. Could these critters have harmed the Honeycrisp? Should I remove the tree, or wait another year? Suggestions?
Swift County Minnesota
Expert Response
Thank you for your question and pictures. I don't believe pocket gophers could cause your tree damage. Even though Honeycrisp apple trees are somewhat resistant, it looks like you have fire blight. It is common in young trees and has the characteristic in your pictures where the leaves die and hang down on the branches. Here is information from Extension on how to manage fire blight: