I started an apple tree from seed. I understand that the tree will give fruit in a couple of years, but it will not resemble the same as the one I ate. I've seen the pollination chart for apple trees, but I've seen apple trees bear fruit without another apple tree nearby. I understand that bees, bats, and beatles are responsible for pollination. Is another apple tree absolutely required for pollination? Do I need another variety to pollinate each other to bear fruit? Or can two of the same variety bear fruit? If I plant a commercially sold tree for cross pollination, will it in any way alter the taste of the fruit of either tree? How does this work? Can I cut off the top portion of the apple tree that I started from seed and graft on three varieties that cross pollinate? I've seen these sold commercially... I think they're kinda cool... :) Any good books or links? Thanks
Having two or more of the same variety is no different, in terms of pollination, than having a single tree, since they are all clones. It is not definitely necessary to have more than one tree to bear fruit, although it may bear more fruit if a pollinizer (tree) is nearby. The various pollinators (bees, etc.) can travel a fair distance, so if there are other apple trees within, say, a kilometer, then you need not worry about that. Pollination from whatever other type of apple tree doesn't affect the flavor or appearance of the fruit whatsoever. The effect it has is on the seeds produced -- their genetics. You sure could attempt to graft different varieties onto it. Instead of cutting off the top, you could graft individual buds (known as "budding"), which would become a branch of that variety. Let your seedling get at least three feet tall, then graft some buds two-to-three feet up the trunk. Here's a link to check out: http://www.homeorchardsociety.org/article/30/ An inexpensive and very informative book is The Best Apples To Buy And Grow. If the genetic diversity of apples intrigues you, then read Apples by Frank Browning.
