Who has an apple tree?

[Shawner]

We're looking at planting an apple tree in our front yard. Don't have any other fruit trees in the yard or nearby so need a self pollinator. Any suggestions for types that do well in the Okanagan? (Peachland)

[LANDM]

We're looking at planting an apple tree in our front yard. Don't have any other fruit trees in the yard or nearby so need a self pollinator. Any suggestions for types that do well in the Okanagan? (Peachland)

Are you prepared to spray appropriately so the SIR program doesn't require you to strip all the fruit off it?

Why not plant something that looks nice and go out and buy your apples locally?

[kgcayenne]

Maybe the OP isn't a lazy git and is already perfectly willing to do what's required.

[Bsuds]

True but they might want to check on the costs to spray just 1 tree as it may not save money to have their own tree and it can be a lot of work. Spraying, pruning etc.

[Shawner]

I'm going to take care of the tree appropriately.

Does anyone have an answer to my initial question?

[Thinktank]

Does anyone have an answer to my initial question?

Yes I have an answer.

Plant an apricot tree. Don't spray.

[Auto1]

Shawner,

Have you tried asking this question to Art Knapp's in Penticton (they sold - can't remember if there is a new name or not...).

Seems like no one here really knows, and it might be best to talk to a professional anyways.

Sorry I can't be more helpful, but I hope you get an answer. Good for you for wanting an apple tree. When the apple pie is ready, let us know!

[LANDM]

Plant one tree and graft two or three varieties on it.

And as for my initial answer, one doesn't have to be a "lazy git" to not know the level of care that apple, pear, and ornamental crab trees take now, due to SIR requirements.

[kgcayenne]

True enough, LANDM. I was abrupt because, honestly, I found your post rubbed me the wrong way. I applaud people who would like to cultivate their own food, and just hate it when others are dismissive. It also highlighted my own limited knowledge of the ills of an apple tree.

My husband also advises against one and explained how there are so damn many backyard trees that aren't looked after, that the SIR program has not been as successful as they'd expected. I suppose we don't need another one out there to be part of the problem.

The OP needs to visit a nursery, not Castanet Forums.

[Shawner]

Shawner,

Have you tried asking this question to Art Knapp's in Penticton (they sold - can't remember if there is a new name or not...).

Seems like no one here really knows, and it might be best to talk to a professional anyways.

Sorry I can't be more helpful, but I hope you get an answer. Good for you for wanting an apple tree. When the apple pie is ready, let us know!

Not yet, no. Hopefully we'll make it out there (or to Dogwood or Bylands) next weekend

[LANDM]

True enough, LANDM. I was abrupt because, honestly, I found your post rubbed me the wrong way. I applaud people who would like to cultivate their own food, and just hate it when others are dismissive. It also highlighted my own limited knowledge of the ills of an apple tree.

My husband also advises against one and explained how there are so damn many backyard trees that aren't looked after, that the SIR program has not been as successful as they'd expected. I suppose we don't need another one out there to be part of the problem.

The OP needs to visit a nursery, not Castanet Forums.

Haha, it's not the first time that my posts have rubbed someone the wrong way, and won't be the last.
In this case, he has had some good advice......probably better than he would get at a nursery.

As always with my posts, YMMV. And your husband is wise. You are most fortunate. Again.....haha.

[kgcayenne]

Am so very lucky. <3 my husband grew up on an orchard here in the 70s before things were as troublesome as they are now.