Apple tree questions - Ask Extension
Hello,
We planted two apples trees (a snow sweet and a State Fair) two summers ago. They are looking really leggy and bending significantly. Sho...
Knowledgebase
Apple tree questions #931605
Asked May 13, 2026, 5:47 PM EDT
Hello,
We planted two apples trees (a snow sweet and a State Fair) two summers ago. They are looking really leggy and bending significantly. Should we stake them? Or prune them?
Thanks for any advice!
Dakota County Minnesota
Expert Response
Your trees need staking to allow their main stems to strengthen in the first few years. You can use metal or very tall bamboo. Place it along the primary stem (comes off the main trunk and typically in center) and sink into the ground deep enough for it to be sturdy. Use a plastic tree ties or soft materials specific to securing trees around the stem and stake. Do not use wire or anything that could potentially burrow into the bark. Below is a link to information about growing apples in Minnesota.
https://extension.umn.edu/fruit/growing-apples#watering%2C-weeding%2C-fertilizing-and-staking-trees
https://extension.umn.edu/fruit/growing-apples#watering%2C-weeding%2C-fertilizing-and-staking-trees
