Young apple trees do not flower or produce fruit in the early stages of their lives. Dwarf and semi-dwarf varieties typically do not flower and bear fruit for 3 to 5 years, while standard size apple trees may not produce flowers/fruit for 5 to 10 years. It is important to follow a pruning regimen in late winter/early spring to avoid overcrowding. For pollination purposes, two cultivars are needed within 50 to 100 feet.
As for your older tree, it may take a few years of careful pruning to bring it back. You first want to remove a few larger branches to increase light and air flow, as well as any branches that are diseased or broken. Just remember not to prune too much to avoid the tree putting too much energy into growing new branches. And again, pruning in late winter/early spring is best.
Young apple trees do not flower or produce fruit in the early stages of their lives. Dwarf and semi-dwarf varieties typically do not flower and bear fruit for 3 to 5 years, while standard size apple trees may not produce flowers/fruit for 5 to 10 years. It is important to follow a pruning regimen in late winter/early spring to avoid overcrowding. For pollination purposes, two cultivars are needed within 50 to 100 feet.
As for your older tree, it may take a few years of careful pruning to bring it back. You first want to remove a few larger branches to increase light and air flow, as well as any branches that are diseased or broken. Just remember not to prune too much to avoid the tree putting too much energy into growing new branches. And again, pruning in late winter/early spring is best.