Received this Empire Apple Tree as a gift the beginning of May, from Cindy, Steve, Brooke, and Jeremy Faulkes:) Was not planning an orchard at this time, but amazing how things can change. After much, much research on blooming time, space and other requirements(including having a companion cross-pollinator) AND the fact that the orchard area is over 150ft from the water source, we set to work and now have the beginnings of an orchard:)

Tree placed approx. 30ft from edge of Ponderosa Pines which are to the north/northwest, with apple tree in full morning and afternoon sun. Hole dug twice as wide. Good garden soil added to hold some moisture in the sand. Round rubber mulching circle cut and placed around to hold in the moisture and eliminate grass and weeds under the tree.

Irrigation hoses (150ft) to the orchard with Y connectors and 25ft soaker hose layed coiled over mulching circle. Watered well and will continue to water as needed in this dry weather.