Overview
Apple and Crabapple Bonsai (Malus species) is a flowering and fruiting tree with spring blossom, small apples and classic orchard character. It is best suited to flowering/fruiting displays, informal upright and clump styles. For UK growers, treat it as: Outdoor.
Placement
full sun for flowers and fruit
Watering
keep evenly moist, especially during fruit set and hot weather
Feeding and fertilising
feed in spring and summer; avoid too much nitrogen at the expense of flowers
Pruning and wiring
prune after flowering and manage fruit load to avoid weakening small trees
Repotting
repot every 2-3 years in early spring
Propagation
grafting, seed for long-term projects and air layering for some material
Pests, diseases and common issues
aphids, apple scab, mildew, codling moth and biennial flowering after heavy fruiting