Malus Matton Tom Matthews

• Malus Matton Tom Mathews is a modern apple cultivar developed for reliable cropping in temperate Australian conditions.
• This deciduous fruit tree produces medium-sized apples with crisp texture and balanced sweet-tart flavour profile.
• The variety displays attractive spring blossoms followed by good fruit set, typically ripening in late summer to early autumn.
• Popular among home orchardists for its manageable size and consistent annual production of quality eating apples.

• Water deeply once weekly during growing season, twice weekly in hot weather, reducing to monthly in winter dormancy.
• Position in full sun location with morning sun exposure and protection from strong afternoon winds.
• Plant in well-draining soil enriched with compost, maintaining pH between 6.0-7.0 for optimal nutrient uptake.
• Feed with balanced fertiliser in early spring and potassium-rich fertiliser during fruit development period.
• Prune annually in winter to remove dead wood and maintain open canopy structure for good air circulation.
• Mulch heavily around root zone but keep mulch away from trunk to prevent collar rot issues.

• Plant in full sun location with at least 6 hours direct sunlight daily for optimal fruit production and tree health.
• Water deeply once or twice weekly during growing season, reducing frequency in winter. Maintain consistent soil moisture during fruit development.
• Apply balanced fertiliser in early spring and again in summer, supplementing with potassium during fruiting season.
• Prune during winter dormancy to maintain open canopy structure and remove dead, diseased or crossing branches.
• Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping mulch away from trunk.

• Codling moth larvae can tunnel into developing fruit - use pheromone traps and apply organic sprays during flowering period. Remove any fallen fruit promptly to break the pest cycle.
• Apple scab appears as dark spots on leaves and fruit during humid conditions. Ensure good air circulation and apply copper-based fungicide in early spring.
• Aphids may cluster on new growth causing leaf curl and sticky honeydew. Spray with insecticidal soap or encourage beneficial insects like ladybirds.
• Fire blight causes blackened, burnt-looking branches and requires immediate pruning of affected areas. Sterilise pruning tools between cuts to prevent spread.