If the leaves on an apple tree have become smaller or the crown has become smaller, then this is the first sign that the tree needs the help of a gardener.
Even if there are apples and the harvest is tolerable, you should not relax. First of all, this is a sign of a violation that will soon affect the fruiting of the tree.
Why do apple trees have leaves?
Roughly speaking, a tree breathes with its leaves. Photosynthesis depends on their size and quantity, and then all other issues, including the harvest. This applies not only to apple trees, but to all fruit crops.
What happened to the crown?
There may be several reasons. Summer residents highlight the most basic ones that they encounter more often.
1. This may be a lack of nutrients (primarily nitrogen) or, on the contrary, an excess of them.
2. The close proximity of groundwater does not have the best effect on the condition of the crown.
3. Next on the list of causes are infectious and fungal diseases or attacks by insect pests.
4. The list ends with freezing of the root system or the above-ground part of the tree.
What to do
Small foliage or a small amount of it must be dealt with. To do this, it is enough to carefully choose a place for planting a seedling.
Otherwise, it will remain to carry out timely pruning and treatment against fungal diseases. It is equally important to treat cut areas and other damage with paint, garden pitch or other preparations.
