I don't claim to expertise but since I didn't see any other responses: I've had an apple tree for about 6 years. Bought it at Bakers. It's multi variety but the best
producer on the tree is by far the Dorsett area. Sits in a lawn area (not too wise). Good production for a small tree this year (a bushel easy) but it seems to do well one year and then "rest" the next.

OK to answer some of your concerns: The leaves DO get stressed in the heat, often appearing light green-->yellow-->brown. At Baker's they recommended watering 2x/week, but I don't. I have a flood bubbler set to go off every 2 weeks. It obviously also gets surface water since it's in the lawn. I can't see a benefit to being in the house. Even mine which is a small tree is at least 10' tall and 8' wide. I believe most of these hybrids that don't need cold dormant time were developed in the middle east where climates aren't that different. Maybe more humid. Personally, I'd get it out of the pot and into the ground. Good luck.

G

Gallen, thanks for your input. He's refused to put it in the ground, but at least he has it partially sunk and 'insulated' with about half a bale of straw. I'm feeling sorry for that little tree...

My young Anna apple tree was very stressed last summer, and somewhere I read that their bark is thin and tender when they are young and must be protected in the summer. This year I lightly wrapped the trunk in shade cloth and it is doing MUCH better. Give it a try!

Good idea. I just read a bulletin from UC Davis that also suggests painting the trunk and even some branches. I'll pass it along, but he's one of those people you can tell, but you can't tell much. ;-)

Here is a link that might be useful: caring for young fruit trees