This is a case of leaping before looking. Apple trees can be grown in containers and dwarfs are best for this practice which brings me to ask you ....what kind of apple trees did you purchase?

It depends. What rootstock have they been grafted on to? This information is very important, as the rootstock will determine the size and vigour of the tree. It would have to be a dwarf rootstock for container-growing.

They do sell 'patio' fruit trees which are intended to be grown in large pots, so if that's what you've bought, yes. If you haven't bought those, but have got ordinary trees intended for the garden, the rootstock might make a difference, but to be honest, the majority won't do well unless in the ground.

Apple trees just aren't the best choice for pots at all. They are much too hungry/thirsty and will rapidly deplete the growing medium & even faster as it grows.

I've had apple trees (on dwarf rootstock) growing in large pots for 8 years with no problems whatsoever. As long as you plant in John Innes No 3, trim the roots in winter every three years or so, and begin feeding once the blossom forms, they'll be fine.

I'm assuming they are 3 normal apple trees - no mention of them being dwarfed sized.

Unless they are specifically Patio Trees, then best to grow in the ground. As advised, suffer from watering problems, nutriment problems and at the end of the day less fruit. Did you also have compatible varities for best pollination.

I know there is no mention of them being dwarfs, Bathgate. Nor is there any mention of them being 'normal'. I'm merely pointing out that apple trees on dwarf rootstocks CAN be planted in pots, as your post made it sound as if NO apple trees would do well in pots. I hope that clarifies things.

I only work with the information given.