What is the minimum / maximum distance apple trees should be apart for pollination? Got 2apple trees to plant. A 3yr Laxton superb that is gonna grow freely - just pruned annually for height restriction, and a 4yr Sunset to be trained as a cordon. I hope to restrict roots spreading vigorously.
Also - Is it true that patio paths at the sides will force the roots to go deeper as opposed to spreading out as much. Don't want roots to take all soil goodness from other veg if i can help it.
Don't put them closer together than the expected height of the mature trees. The distance needed for pollination is the distance pollinating insects fly, which is greater than most people realise. You don't have to worry as long as there's a pollinator in the general area.