294 Apple Tree Rehab. Gravel Gardens.

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 BuzzsproutPictured: Yellow Newtown Pippin Apple (Photo: Dave Wilson Nursery)Help Keep This Podcast Going by Supporting Our Sponsors!Smart Pots https://smartpots.com/fred/ Dave Wilson Nursery https://www.davewilson.com/home-garden/Topic Links:Flashback Episode of the Week: #158 Problem PlantsPruning 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 SuppliesOlbrich Botanical GardensGravel Garden BasicsGravel Garden VideoAll About Farmer Fred: Farmer Fred websiteThe Farmer Fred Rant! Blog Facebook:  "Get Growing with Farmer Fred" Instagram/Threads: farmerfredhoffman https://www.instagram.com/farmerfredhoffman/Farmer Fred on TikTokFarmer Fred Garden Minute Videos on YouTube As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases from possible links mentioned here.Got a garden question? • Leave an audio question without making a phone call via Speakpipe, at https://www.speakpipe.com/gardenbasics• Call or text us the question: 916-292-8964. • Fill out the contact box at GardenBasics.net• E-mail: [email protected] Thank you for listening, subscribing and commenting on the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast and the Beyond the Garden Basics  Newsletter.