Pruning the apple trees is also important, I think this is the resource our local gardener recommends.
http://extension.usu.edu/files/publi...ion/HG_363.pdf
I am scared to put fruit trees in our front yard, because I don't want people messing with them and stealing the fruit, and I'm also worried about the car exhaust on the fruit.
There are several nearby houses with apple trees in the front yard, though.