Demystifying the Crab Apple Tree Growth Rate

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

• Young trees less than 5 years old grow rapidly as they establish roots and branching structure

• Growth rate slows as trees enter maturity. Older trees channel energy into flower and fruit production rather than new vegetative growth.

Tree Health

• Healthy trees with robust root systems and access to sunlight, water, and nutrients grow more vigorously.

• Stressed trees divert energy into survival rather than growth, resulting in a slower growth rate.

Pruning Practices

• Regular pruning encourages new growth by removing old wood and stimulating new bud formation.

• Neglected trees that are never pruned often have congested canopies and slower growth rates.

Climate Conditions

• Warm climates with long growing seasons accelerate growth. Crabapples grow slower in areas with cold winters.

• Adequate rainfall and supplemental irrigation results in faster growth than dry conditions.

Soil Quality

• Rich, loose, well-drained soil enables the best growth rate.

• 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?

• A 5-gallon potted crab apple may grow around 12 to 18 inches in the first year.

• 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.

• 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:

• ‘Adirondack’ – Moderate growth to around 15 feet tall and 12 feet wide.

• ‘Donald Wyman’ – Moderate grower maturing around 20 feet tall and wide.

• ‘Indian Summer’ – Fast growing; can reach 25 feet tall and wide.

• ‘Prairifire’ – Quickly reaches mature size of 20 feet tall and wide.

• ‘Profusion’ – Moderate growth rate; mature size around 20 feet.

• ‘Sargent’ – Grows slowly, only reaching 8 to 10 feet tall.

• ‘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:

• Select a variety suited for your growing zone.

• Choose the healthiest tree with a robust root system.

• Plant in spring or fall when temperatures are mild.

• situate in full sun.

• Space trees adequately apart and away from structures.

• Prepare a deep planting hole and loosen compacted soil.

• set the tree at the proper planting depth.

• Water thoroughly after planting and as needed thereafter.

• Apply 2-4 inches of organic mulch around the tree (but avoid mulch volcanoes).

• Stake the tree for support the first year if needed.

• Prune selectively to encourage desired form.

• Fertilize according to soil test results.

• Control weeds and grass competition.

• 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:

• Tree age – Older, more mature nursery trees flower sooner than young whips. Container trees flower quicker than bare root.

• Tree size – Larger caliper trees often bloom sooner than smaller whip trees.

• Pruning – Pruning delays flowering but improves long-term form. Avoid heavy pruning the first 3 years.

• Tree health – Healthy, vigorous trees flower sooner than stressed trees still establishing.

• Climate – Crab apples flower earlier in warmer climates compared to colder regions.

Once your crab apple begins flowering, how long until fruits develop?

• Most crab apples set fruit 2 to 3 years after the initial flowering.

• Some varieties, like ‘Adirondack’, may flower heavily but not bear much fruit.

• 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.

Achieving Maximum Crab Apple Growth

With their spring blossoms and bold fruits, crab apple trees add four-season excitement to any landscape. Follow best practices when planting and caring for your new tree. Once established, a healthy crab apple will achieve its cultivar’s maximum growth rate, rewarding you with years of enjoyment watching your tree rapidly progress from a small stick to a glowing focal point.