There is nothing like going into your own backyard and picking an apple. The reward of that fresh fruit would make any one smile.

Growing your own fruit does require some effort. Fruit trees will need pruning which basically is training the tree to grow correctly. Pruning allows light to color fruit and air to circulate through the tree which reduces disease.

Choosing a variety should be the first item of business. Today there are trees that will reach a height of 6 feet. These trees most often require some staking. Then there are the old standard trees which will grow to over 30 feet. Choose a tree that will fit your sight and meet your requirements.

Today the homeowner can choose varieties that have flavor and are disease resistant. The great part about disease resistance is it usually requires less spraying. Of course these trees are not resistant to all disease so some spraying will still be required.

Disease resistant does not mean insect resistant. One will still have to keep an eye out for insect damage as well.

Some apples one should consider include varieties such as Liberty which is red, crisp and juicy. This apple will store well for you too. Jonafree is red over yellow with less acid than a well known variety called Jonathan.

Another apple called Pristine is an early apple which will ripen in July.

So if an apple tree is coming to your landscape choose a disease resistant apple.

Remember to plant fruit trees away from sidewalks. They drop fruit and attract bees certain times of the year.