Matthew Reed wrote:
I have this huge old apple tree in my yard. Here are some pictures:

This is a pic of the top of one of the branches. Notice missing bark and
cracks:
http://zootal.no-ip.info/stuff/2006%...s/DSCF3743.jpg
http://zootal.no-ip.info/stuff/2006%...s/DSCF3744.jpg

Trunk:
http://zootal.no-ip.info/stuff/2006%...s/DSCF3745.jpg
http://zootal.no-ip.info/stuff/2006%...s/DSCF3746.jpg

Entire tree:
http://zootal.no-ip.info/stuff/2006%...s/DSCF3750.jpg

The pics may not really give a good indication of the tree's overall health.
The leaves are warped, curled slightly. No new growth. Apples look good, so
far. Some of the branches have missing bark and cracks. I'm not sure how
healthy it is or how long it will live. What can be done to maintain and
improve the health of an old tree like this?


Looks like every other really old apple tree I've ever seen. Do you
fertilize it, or prune it properly, does it get adequate water? Those
are things you can do yourself with some self-study. Call your state ag
agent, should be one in your county, and ask for some help in
determining the health and well-being of your great old tree. The ag
agents are paid with your tax dollars and generally, or so I've found,
are willing to give you advice. Wish I had the tree but apples don't
grow well in SW Louisiana. HTH

George