How to revive Granny Smith apple tree with leaf curl?

[Barbbillk1]

I purchased 2 apple trees from Bunnings.  One was a Granny Smith and the other was a Golden Delicious.  They were planted at the same time May or June. 

Both seemed to be growing well.  But the other day I noticed the Granny Smith appeared to have a leaf  problem.  The tree has blossomed and there a quite a few young apples growing.  

Some of the mature leaves are turning brownish and the tree leaves seem to be turning in.  I’ve attached photos showing the problem leaves and a few of the tree itself.

hope you can help.

Top side of leafTop side of another leafTop side of another leafTop side of another leafNotice how the leaves are turning inBottom side of all leavesThe tree and note leaves turning inYoung apples formingAnother branch with apples forming. Leaves turning in again.

[MitchellMc · Accepted solution]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @Barbbillk1. It's terrific to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about Apply tree care.

It sounds like your Granny Smith apple tree may be experiencing environmental stress, possibly due to issues like water imbalance, nutrient deficiencies, or even early signs of fungal disease. Leaf curling and browning are often signs of watering issues, where the soil may be too dry or overly saturated. To check this, feel the soil around the tree’s roots; it should be moist but not waterlogged, and the top few inches should dry out between waterings.

The quality of the soil is also important, and from the images, it appears that the soil might be quite poor. When planting, did you enrich the soil with compost or any organic matter? Apple trees thrive in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil, so incorporating compost at the time of planting can improve the structure and fertility, supporting root health and overall tree resilience.

Nutrient deficiencies, particularly a lack of nitrogen, can cause leaf discolouration and curling as well. A balanced fertiliser with a focus on nitrogen applied in spring might help boost leaf health. Additionally, as apple trees are prone to fungal diseases like apple scab or powdery mildew, check the leaves for any small dark spots or powdery coatings. If you notice these, an appropriate fungicide can help prevent further spread.

Have you had some hot days there recently? This issue could be as simple as the leaves have been burnt. If this is the case, you might like to erect some shade cloth supported by stakes to protect them until they are better established.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell
 

[Barbbillk1]

Thank you.  Much appreciate the info.

Barb