Getting your apple tree to produce more fruit in Victoria, BC, involves several horticultural practices tailored to the region's climate and soil conditions. Here's how you can encourage your apple tree to yield a bountiful harvest:

1. Choose the Right Varieties

Select apple varieties that are well-suited to Victoria's climate. Consider early to mid-season varieties that can thrive in the mild conditions, and ensure you have compatible pollinators if your variety requires cross-pollination.

2. Plant in a Suitable Location

Apple trees need full sun, at least 6-8 hours a day, to produce fruit abundantly. Ensure the tree is planted in a location that gets ample sunlight and is protected from strong winds that could damage the tree or its pollinators.

3. Improve Soil Conditions

Apple trees prefer well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Before planting, amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and structure. Regularly adding organic matter can help maintain healthy soil conditions.

4. Watering

Especially during the first few years and in dry periods, ensure your apple tree receives enough water to avoid stress. Deep, infrequent watering encourages the development of a strong root system. However, avoid overwatering, as apple trees do not thrive in waterlogged soil.

5. Pruning and Training

Proper pruning and training are crucial for maximizing fruit production. Prune in late winter to remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches and to open up the canopy to light and air circulation. This encourages the growth of fruiting spurs. Consider espalier or other training systems to maximize sun exposure and improve air circulation.

6. Fertilization

Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring, after the tree has established for a year. Be cautious with nitrogen-rich fertilizers, which can promote leafy growth at the expense of fruit. In subsequent years, adjust fertilization based on the tree's growth and fruiting, as well as soil test results.

7. Thin the Fruit

Fruit thinning can significantly impact the size and quality of the harvest. Once the tree sets fruit and after the natural "June drop," thin the apples so that they are about 6 inches apart on the branch. This prevents overbearing, which can lead to smaller fruits and biennial bearing patterns.

8. Pest and Disease Management

Regularly inspect your apple tree for signs of pests and diseases. Implement integrated pest management practices, using cultural, mechanical, biological, and chemical controls as necessary, to keep the tree healthy. Healthy trees are more likely to produce abundant fruit.

9. Mulching

Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree to conserve soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.

By following these steps and providing consistent care, you can encourage your apple tree to produce more fruit in Victoria, BC. Remember, patience and attention to the tree's needs over the seasons are key to enjoying a fruitful harvest.