Body
Standard apple trees will be larger than dwarfs and semi-dwarfs. The trunk should be 6 to 10 feet tall and the scaffolds spaced 8 to 15 inches apart, in clusters spaced 30 to 36 inches apart, or in a combination of clusters and spaced branches. The number of scaffolds selected may vary from 10 to 15. The height of the trunk will vary with the number of scaffolds: the more scaffolds selected, the taller the trunk required. Some growers prefer fewer scaffolds, allowing them to become large; others prefer more scaffolds of smaller size.
Training at planting time and through the first 5 years. The system of pruning standard apple trees at planting time and after 2, 3, 4, and 5 years is similar to that described for dwarf trees except for the differences in number of scaffolds and the vertical spacing along the trunk. Standard trees may grow more vigorously and usually are slower coming into bearing than those on dwarfing rootstocks. They may require more severe pruning and may need special treatments to bring them into bearing.
Pruning after 6 to 10 years. During this period make any selections needed to complete the framework. The main leader may be removed back to the top scaffold (suggested for standard trees) or it may be allowed to bear fruits. On dwarf and semi-dwarf trees, allowing the top of the main leader to bear fruit usually bends it over and the top of the main leader then becomes the highest scaffold.
