Malus ‘Profusion’ commonly known as the Profusion crabapple, is a stunning ornamental tree renowned for its abundant pink flowers and vibrant fruit. This hardy tree adds a splash of colour and character to any UK garden, making it a popular choice among gardeners. In this article, we excited to share essential care instructions to help your Malus ‘Profusion’ thrive.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
The Profusion Crabapple is a top-choice spring flowering tree, especially in colder regions. Not only is it very winter hardy and a reliable bloomer in May, it is also highly resistant to all the common apple diseases, so it is very easy to grow. As its name suggests, it carries a profusion of blossoms every spring, in bright shades of violet-red. These are followed my dense hanging clusters of bright-red fruits, miniature sour apples that hang long after the leaves fall, and they become valuable winter food for local birds.
You can also make a delicious jelly from them, to enjoy all winter. The tree will in time grow between 15 and 30 feet tall, and just as wide, so it makes a terrific specimen tree in a medium-sized garden. Plant it on the lawn, or as a backdrop to smaller trees and shrubs.
II. How to Grow and Care
Location
Selecting the ideal location for your Malus ‘Profusion’ is crucial for its health and visual appeal. This tree flourishes in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to produce its spectacular blooms and fruit. While it can tolerate some partial shade, optimal growth and flowering occur in sunny conditions. A well-drained, fertile soil is essential; loamy or sandy soil enriched with organic matter will provide the best environment for healthy growth. Avoid planting in heavy clay or poorly drained areas, as these conditions can lead to root rot.
Watering
Young Malus ‘Profusion’ trees require consistent moisture, particularly during their first growing season. Water deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Once established, the tree becomes more drought-tolerant but will still benefit from regular watering during prolonged dry spells, especially when setting fruit. It? essential to monitor soil moisture, aiming to keep it consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilizing
To encourage healthy growth and vibrant blooms, apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring as new growth begins. A slow-release fertiliser designed for flowering trees is ideal, providing essential nutrients gradually throughout the growing season. Be cautious not to over-fertilise, as excessive nitrogen can lead to lush foliage at the expense of flowers and fruit. If your soil is rich in organic matter, you may find that additional fertilisation is unnecessary.
Planting Instructions
The best time to plant Malus ‘Profusion’ is in early spring or autumn when the soil is workable. Start by digging a hole that is twice the width of the root ball and the same depth. This allows the roots ample space to spread and establish. Position the tree in the hole, ensuring that the graft union the swollen area where the tree was grafted onto the rootstock?its just above soil level. Backfill the hole gently, firming the soil to remove any air pockets. After planting, water thoroughly to help settle the soil, and consider adding a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pruning
Pruning is an important aspect of caring for your Malus ‘Profusion’. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring, just before new growth starts. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches to improve air circulation and light penetration. Light pruning will help maintain the tree? shape and encourage a bushier growth habit. Avoid heavy pruning, as the tree? natural form is already quite attractive.
Winter Care
This crabapple is hardy in the UK, but providing some winter protection can be beneficial, especially for younger trees. A layer of mulch around the base helps insulate the roots and retain moisture. In particularly cold weather, wrapping young trees with horticultural fleece can offer added protection against frost and harsh winds.
Pests and Diseases
Malus ‘Profusion’ is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can occasionally encounter issues such as aphids, scale insects, and apple scab. Regularly inspect your tree for any signs of infestation or disease. Maintaining good air circulation and overall tree health will help prevent problems. If you spot any pests, consider using organic pest control methods that are safe for beneficial insects and the environment.
III. Uses and Benefits
Malus Profusion is commonly grown as a specimen, maintained in a courtyard garden, used in an avenue planting, planted to border an entrance, or included in a mixed planting.