Crab apple trees are beloved for their profusion of flowers in spring their colorful foliage, and their ornamental fruits that persist into winter. Their manageable size makes them ideal accent trees for yards big and small. But how fast do these charismatic trees grow? What factors influence their growth rate? This article will explore the basics of crab apple growth to help you better understand what to expect as your tree matures.
Typical Growth Rate
Most crab apple trees grow at a moderate rate, averaging about 12 to 24 inches of new growth per year once established. Growth rate refers to the increase in overall height each year, not width or spread of the branches
Crabapples tend to grow quickly when young, averaging 18 to 24 inches per year for the first few years after planting. Their growth rate gradually slows as trees mature. Older trees may only grow 12 or fewer inches annually.
Specific growth depends on the variety Some compact types max out around 10 feet while larger cultivars can reach 20 to 25 feet tall at maturity,
On average, it takes about 5 to 10 years for a newly planted crabapple to reach its mature size. But the exact timeframe depends on its growing conditions.
Factors Influencing Growth Rate
Several key factors affect how fast crab apples grow:
Age of the Tree
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Young trees less than 5 years old grow rapidly as they establish roots and branching structure.
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Growth rate slows as trees enter maturity. Older trees channel energy into flower and fruit production rather than new vegetative growth.
Tree Health
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Healthy trees with robust root systems and access to sunlight, water, and nutrients grow more vigorously.
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Stressed trees divert energy into survival rather than growth, resulting in a slower growth rate.
Pruning Practices
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Regular pruning encourages new growth by removing old wood and stimulating new bud formation.
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Neglected trees that are never pruned often have congested canopies and slower growth rates.
Climate Conditions
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Warm climates with long growing seasons accelerate growth. Crabapples grow slower in areas with cold winters.
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Adequate rainfall and supplemental irrigation results in faster growth than dry conditions.
Soil Quality
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Rich, loose, well-drained soil enables the best growth rate.
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Poor soils stunt growth. Clay, compacted, or nutrient deficient soil causes slower growth.
Growth Rate for Newly Planted Trees
If you just brought home a new crab apple tree from the nursery, what growth rate might you expect that first year after planting?
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A 5-gallon potted crab apple may grow around 12 to 18 inches the first year.
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Bare root trees often have less branch structure and roots compared to container grown trees. They may only grow 6 to 12 inches the first year as the root system establishes.
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Small 2-3 foot tall whip trees grow quickly, often 18+ inches in year one.
No matter what size tree you select, avoid overplanting. Choose the smallest tree that meets your needs. Smaller trees adapt better, suffer less transplant shock, and establish more quickly than large trees.
Growth Rate Variations by Cultivar
Growth habits vary significantly between different crab apple cultivars. Here are growth details on some popular selections:
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‘Adirondack’ – Moderate growth to around 15 feet tall and 12 feet wide.
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‘Donald Wyman’ – Moderate grower maturing around 20 feet tall and wide.
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‘Indian Summer’ – Fast growing; can reach 25 feet tall and wide.
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‘Prairifire’ – Quickly reaches mature size of 20 feet tall and wide.
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‘Profusion’ – Moderate growth rate; mature size around 20 feet.
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‘Sargent’ – Grows slowly, only reaching 8 to 10 feet tall.
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‘Snowdrift’ – Rapid growth, maturing at approximately 20 feet tall and wide.
Check cultivar descriptions before selecting a variety to ensure it will fit the space allotted as it reaches maturity. Avoid planting fast growers like ‘Snowdrift’ and ‘Indian Summer’ where space is limited.
Ensuring Proper Growth Rate
You invest time and money in planting a crab apple tree. After all that effort, it is only natural to want your tree to thrive and grow at a vigorous rate. Here are some tips to help your crab apple achieve its best possible growth:
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Select a variety suited for your growing zone.
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Choose the healthiest tree with a robust root system.
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Plant in spring or fall when temperatures are mild.
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Situate in full sun.
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Space trees adequately apart and away from structures.
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Prepare a deep planting hole and loosen compacted soil.
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Set the tree at the proper planting depth.
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Water thoroughly after planting and as needed thereafter.
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Apply 2-4 inches of organic mulch around the tree (but avoid mulch volcanoes).
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Stake the tree for support the first year if needed.
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Prune selectively to encourage desired form.
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Fertilize according to soil test results.
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Control weeds and grass competition.
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Monitor for pests and diseases.
When to Expect Flowers and Fruit
Patience is required when waiting for those first spring blossoms on a young crab apple tree. Trees often take 3 to 5 years after planting before they begin flowering noticeably. Some factors that influence initial flowering include:
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Tree age – Older, more mature nursery trees flower sooner than young whips. Container trees flower quicker than bare root.
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Tree size – Larger caliper trees often bloom sooner than smaller whip trees.
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Pruning – Pruning delays flowering but improves long-term form. Avoid heavy pruning the first 3 years.
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Tree health – Healthy, vigorous trees flower sooner than stressed trees still establishing.
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Climate – Crab apples flower earlier in warmer climates compared to colder regions.
Once your crab apple begins flowering, how long until fruits develop?
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Most crab apples set fruit 2 to 3 years after the initial flowering.
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Some varieties, like ‘Adirondack’, may flower heavily but not bear much fruit.
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Heavy fruit set can weigh down young branches before they are strong enough to support a crop. Thin fruits while trees are young to avoid damage.
With the right care and conditions, your crab apple tree will transition from a small sapling to a mature specimen dripping with blossoms and fruits in just a few short years. A little patience goes a long way when growing these ornamental trees. Follow best practices and enjoy watching your crab apple grow!
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Stunning Good Looks, Month to Month
Why Prairifire Crabapple Trees?
The Prairifire Crabapple is showy all year long. Plant several along your driveway and create a grand entrance for your guests, no matter what time of year they arrive.
Youll get a rush of warm color in the spring. The spring months deliver gorgeous purple and red leaves to the Prairifire Crabapple, while tons of pink-magenta flowers welcome vibrant color. While your neighbors yards fade in the summer heat, your Prairifire will still bring magnificent warm hues to your landscape.
Even in winter, this tree still brings warmth to your yard. The bark of the Prarifire is a mix of gray and deep orange, with cherry-like berries that persist into the chilly months. As the first frost hits your region, the Prairifire still manages to stand out and add warmth.
And theres no mess left for you to clean up. The birds love this tree so much that you wont have to worry about fruit falling on your lawn. You can enjoy the beauty of this tree without worrying about withered fruit littered on your grass.
Most Crabapples succumb to disease after several years, but the Prairifire stands strong. So, you dont have to worry about keeping a constant eye for pests and ailments, and you wont have to use harsh chemicals or sprays.
Why Fast-Growing-Trees.com is Better
But the best part about your Prairifire? Weâve planted and grown your tree at our nursery for months, long before it ships. Now, you get a well-developed root system (no bare root!) and more mature branching than ever before.
The Prairifire Crabapple is an easy choice. If youre looking for beauty and warmth, look no further. The Prairifire Crabapple Tree merges the features of your favorite focal point trees into one easy package…get yours today!
Top 5 Most Popular Crabapple Trees | NatureHills.com
FAQ
How long do crabapple trees take to grow?
⏳ How Long Until Fully Grown? In terms of maturity, expect a crabapple tree to reach its full height of 15 to 25 feet within 5 to 10 years. With proper care, these trees can live between 30 to 70 years, offering long-term beauty and shade.
What are the disadvantages of a crabapple tree?
Drawbacks to crabapples include root suckering and messy fruit in the early spring. There are many factors to consider when selecting a crabapple for your garden, including bloom color, fall foliage color, fruit size, tree size, and disease resistance.
How to make a crabapple tree grow faster?
Crabapple trees grow best in full sun and moist, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic soil pH. A moderate-to-fast grower, crabapple trees need to be planted where they have plenty of space to expand to their mature size.
Do you need two crabapple trees to get fruit?
Apple trees need at least 8 hours of sun per day during the growing season. Two varieties are required for successful pollination; one can be a crabapple. Dwarf apple trees will start bearing fruit 2 to 3 years after planting.
How fast does a crab apple tree grow?
This article will explore the basics of crab apple growth to help you better understand what to expect as your tree matures. Most crab apple trees grow at a moderate rate, averaging about 12 to 24 inches of new growth per year once established. Growth rate refers to the increase in overall height each year, not width or spread of the branches.
How big does a crab apple grow?
Growth habits vary significantly between different crab apple cultivars. Here are growth details on some popular selections: ‘Adirondack’ – Moderate growth to around 15 feet tall and 12 feet wide. ‘Donald Wyman’ – Moderate grower maturing around 20 feet tall and wide.
How big do crabapples grow?
Planting crab apples Dig a hole 60x60cm (2x2ft) and 30cm (12in) deep. How big do crabapple trees get? The smallest crabapple trees can be small shrub-like bushes around 4 ft. (1.2 m) tall. Larger crabapples can grow to between 20 and 30 ft. (6 – 9 m).
What kind of apples grow on a crabapple tree?
Royal Raindrops crabapple trees. Magenta-pink blooms appear in mid-spring on crabapples ‘Royal Raindrops.’ This crabapple species has unusual deeply-lobed leaves and produces tiny apple fruits. Lollipop crabapple trees. Spectacular white flowers spear in spring. This dwarf apple tree has upward growing branches and small amber-colored apples.
How do you grow a crab apple tree?
Growing Conditions – Rich soil, ample sunlight and proper irrigation allow crab apple trees to reach their maximum growth potential. Trees grown in shade or poor soil will likely be smaller. Cultivar – Genetics primarily dictate the natural size of the tree. Always choose a variety suited to the space you have available.
How do crabapple trees grow?
Crabapple trees are quite adaptable and can grow in a range of soil types from sandy to clay. However, they prefer well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. They also do best in full sun, which helps to promote abundant flowering and fruiting and reduces the risk of disease.