Today we answer a listener’s question: can we reduce the height of an old, beloved backyard apple tree to a height where we can reach the fruit while standing on the ground? Yes, but it will take several growing seasons for it to return to production. America’s Favorite Retired College Horticulture Professor, Debbie Flower and myself talk about all the ways to reduce the height of an overgrown apple tree. 

Plus, we discuss a gardening trend gaining popularity east of the Rockies: gravel gardening. Which, for you desert dwellers, is not the same as your rock-filled front yards. (originally aired in Ep. 167). 

We’re podcasting from Barking Dog Studios here in the beautiful Abutilon Jungle in Suburban Purgatory, it’s the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast, brought to you today by Smart Pots and Dave Wilson Nursery.  Let’s go!

Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and TRANSCRIPTS  at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net. Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout

Pictured: Yellow Newtown Pippin Apple (Photo: Dave Wilson Nursery)

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Smart Pots https://smartpots.com/fred/
Dave Wilson Nursery https://www.davewilson.com/home-garden/

Topic Links:

Flashback Episode of the Week: #158 Problem Plants
Pruning to Restore an Old, Neglected Apple Tree (OSU)
Fruit Tree Grafting Info (U. of New Hampshire)
Grafting Fruit Trees (Dave Wilson Nursery Video)
How to Graft a Fruit Tree (Bark Grafting) (Dave Wilson Nursery Video)
Fruit Tree Grafting Supplies
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
Gravel Garden Basics
Gravel Garden Video

All About Farmer Fred:
Farmer Fred website
The Farmer Fred Rant! Blog
Facebook:  "Get Growing with Farmer Fred"
Instagram/Threads: farmerfredhoffman
https://www.instagram.com/farmerfredhoffman/
Farmer Fred on TikTok
Farmer Fred Garden Minute Videos on YouTube
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