Crabapple - Summer Wonder

Directions for Planting and Care

Planting and caring for your Summer Wonder® Crabapple is easy, allowing you to enjoy its beauty without too much effort:

Planting

Select the Right Location: Choose a sunny spot in your garden as the Summer Wonder® Crabapple thrives in full sun for vibrant foliage, flowers, and fruit. This tree does best when it gets at least 6 hours of sunlight each day.

Prepare the Soil: Ensure the soil is well-drained and moist. If your soil tends to retain too much water, mix in compost or sand to improve drainage and avoid waterlogging.

Dig a Proper Hole: Dig a hole that is at least twice the width of the root ball and slightly deeper. This ensures that the tree’s roots will have room to spread out and establish themselves properly.

Plant the Tree: Gently remove the tree from its pot and place the root ball in the hole. The top of the root ball should be level with the ground surface. If necessary, gently loosen the roots before placing the tree in the hole.

Backfill and Pack Soil: Fill the hole with the native soil, mixing in any leftover potting soil if desired. Firmly pack down the soil to eliminate any air pockets and stabilize the tree.

Water Thoroughly: After planting, give the tree a good soaking. This helps settle the soil and provides essential moisture for the roots to start establishing.

Care

Regular Watering: For the first year, water the Summer Wonder® Crabapple regularly, especially during dry spells. Once the tree has become established, it is drought-tolerant but will benefit from deep watering during the hottest months.

Pruning: Minimal pruning is required for this tree. However, in late winter or early spring, prune to remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches to help maintain its shape and health. It’s best to prune before the tree begins its new growth.

Disease Resistance and Maintenance: The Summer Wonder® Crabapple is naturally resistant to common diseases like apple scab and fire blight. Its disease-resistant qualities reduce the need for frequent chemical treatments, making it a low-maintenance choice for gardeners.

Fertilization: For optimal growth, you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. This promotes healthy growth and vibrant flowering throughout the season.

The Summer Wonder® Crabapple is an ornamental tree that adds beauty with its stunning purple foliage, pink blossoms, and red fruit. With its minimal maintenance needs and striking visual appeal, it’s the perfect addition to any landscape.