Apple trees are not typically thought of as shade-loving trees. So, Can Apple Trees Grow in Shade? Well, the answer is yes, apple trees grow in shade. There are a few varieties that can tolerate some shade. The best type of apple tree for growing in partial shade is the Enterprise apple.
This variety is known for its ability to withstand colder temperatures and still produce fruit. That means before planting an apple tree in the shade, you must choose the right variety that can grow well in the shade.
Well, in this article below, I will tell you some useful information about this topic. If you are looking to plant apple trees in shade then this article will be very much helpful for you.
Can Apple Trees Grow in Shade
Yes, it is possible for apple trees to grow in shade, but they may not produce as much fruit as those that are grown in full sun. Because apple trees need a good amount of sunlight for growing. If they won’t get proper sunlight then it is very difficult to grow and make fruits.
The amount of sunlight that an apple tree receives affects the number of apples that it has. If you are looking to plant an apple tree in your yard and there is a shady spot, it is worth a try.
Can Apple Trees Survive in Shade?
Yes, apple trees can survive in the shade, but they may not produce as much fruit as they would if they were in full sun. Apple trees need at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to produce a good crop of apples.
If your apple tree is in the shade for part of the day, it will still produce some apples, but the yield may be less than it would be if the tree were in full sun.
2 Things to Consider for Shade Tolerant Apple Trees
There are a few things to keep in mind if you want to grow a shade tolerant apple tree, though.
Second, give your tree some extra TLC during the first year or two. It may take a little longer for it to adjust to its new environment and start producing fruit.
What Apple Trees Can Grow In Shade
However, it’s important to note that even the Enterprise apple will need some sunlight to produce a good crop of apples. If you’re looking for an apple tree that can handle full shade, then you might want to try the Liberty Apple. This variety is known for its disease resistance and hardiness, making it a good choice for areas with less than ideal growing conditions.
Do Apple Trees Need Full Sun
Apple trees need full sun in order to produce the best fruit. The tree will still produce fruit if it doesn’t get full sun, but it won’t be as good as it could be. Full sun means at least 8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
If you live in an area with hot summers, your apple tree will need even more sun to prevent the fruit from getting too soft.
How Much Sun Do Apple Trees Need Per Day?
How To Find The Sunlight Place For Apple Trees
- Go outside and find a sunny spot in your yard
- Place a white piece of paper or cloth under the tree
- Set up your camera on a tripod and aim it at the tree
- Use a timer or remote to take a long exposure photograph of the scene
- Review your photo and adjust your settings as needed before taking another picture
What Should I Do Before Planting Apple Trees In Shade
- First, make sure the site is large enough for the tree to reach its full size.
- Second, choose a variety that is known to be tolerant of shade.
- Third, prepare the soil by adding organic matter and ensuring it is well-drained.
- Finally, water the trees regularly during the growing season.

Where Should You Not Plant an Apple Tree?
While apple trees can grow in a variety of locations, there are a few places where they should not be planted. One is near a black walnut tree. The chemicals produced by the black walnut tree’s roots can inhibit the growth of other plants, including apple trees.
Another place to avoid is an area that has been flooded or where the water table is high. Apple trees need well-drained soil and will not do well if their roots are constantly wet. Finally, apple trees should not be planted too close to buildings or other structures. They can grow quite large and their roots can damage foundations and sidewalks.
Can Apple Trees Grow in Pots
One of the great things about apple trees is that they can be grown in pots. This makes them perfect for small yards or balconies. While a potted apple tree will never reach the size of its ground-grown counterpart, it can still produce an abundance of apples.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when growing an apple tree in a pot:
1. The container you choose should be at least 18 inches wide and 24 inches deep or more. A plastic pot is fine, but make sure it has drainage holes.
2. It’s also important to use a good quality potting mix that contains plenty of organic matter.
3. When selecting an apple tree for your pot, look for one that is grafted onto dwarfing rootstock. This will ensure that your tree stays smaller and more manageable. The most popular dwarfing rootstocks are M9 and M26.
4. It’s important to give your potted apple tree plenty of water during the growing season – at least 1 inch per week. During hot, dry weather you may need to water twice per week.
5. Fertilize your tree every four weeks with a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions carefully so you don’t over or under fertilize.
6. Potted apple trees need to be protected from extreme cold weather – especially during their first winter after planting. If possible, move your pots into an unheated garage or shed during periods of very cold weather (below 20 degrees Fahrenheit).
How Much Water Do Apple Trees Need
Water is a key element for any type of tree, especially when it comes to fruit trees. While all trees need water to survive, apple trees have a higher demand for water than other types of trees. This is due to the fact that apples are about 80% water.
Therefore, if an apple tree does not have enough water, the apples will be small, dry, and tasteless. There are a few different factors that affect how much water an apple tree needs including the size of the tree, the climate, and soil conditions. In general, a young apple tree needs about 10 gallons of water per week.
An established tree can get by with about 5 gallons per week. However, during hot weather or periods of drought, you may need to increase watering to as much as 10-20 gallons per day. The best way to determine how much watering your specific apple tree needs is to check the soil around the tree weekly.
The soil should be moist but not soggy. If it feels dry several inches below the surface, then it’s time to give your tree a good soaking. Remember – it’s better to give your apple tree too much water than too little.
Planting Fruit Trees in Shady Areas
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can You Plant Apple Trees in the Shade?
Q: Should You Soak Apple Trees before Planting?
Apple trees are traditionally thought of as needing a lot of sun, but Can Apple Trees Grow in Shade? they can actually tolerate some shade. The amount of sun they need depends on the variety of apple trees, with some needing more sun than others.
The best way to determine how much sun your particular variety of apple trees needs is to consult with a local nursery or gardening center. They will be able to give you specific advice based on the climate where you live and the type of apple tree you have.