Question
i have 2 golden delicious apple trees. on is almost dead. the bark has lifted off the truck totally. up till this year it had normal apple, this year very small apples. the tree next to it is starting to show the same barking lifting. it has normal production. what is causing this and can the second tree be saved?

Answer
Dear Mary, Generally, when the tree loses its bark all the way around it is already dead.  There are several reasons why this can happen but none that are specific to apple trees.  It could have borers in which case you would see small holes all over the trunk.  It could have been too wet or too dry, or this summer could have been too hot as it was for many areas.  I have seen many plants in watered landscapes this year just burn up from the heat.  It could have had fire blight, in which the leaves start to appear scorched or burned and the tree usually dies very quickly.  Unfortunately, unless you noticed any other symptoms it would be very hard to know specifically what caused the tree to die.  Because the second one is also losing bark, it is a good bet that it will die too.  Since you live in California, I am going to recommend that you contact the county extension office for their information on apple growing and spraying schedule.  Spraying apple trees on a schedule can ensure having good healthy apples and organic options are available.  Be sure to look carefully for small holes from borers, in which case I would spray the trees with a borer spray, being sure to follow label directions and precautions, especially if you still have any apples left on.  Good luck.  I hope this information helps, but please write back if you have further questions.  Melissa