The best apple tree varieties: where to buy and when to plant

Apples aren't just a tasty and healthy treat, they're also a source of inspiration for many gardeners. In this article, we'll delve into the world of apple trees: we'll tell you about the best varieties, where to buy them, and the right planting times. Come join us in the exciting and rewarding world of gardening, which will give you the apple orchard of your dreams.

Why is it worth growing apple trees?

Gardening, especially growing fruit trees, has many advantages. Firstly, apple trees are renowned for their longevity among garden trees. A single tree can yield fruit for decades. Secondly, they require little maintenance and can adapt to a variety of climates. And, of course, home-grown apples will always be tastier and healthier than store-bought ones.

The main criteria for choosing an apple tree variety

Before choosing a variety, there are several important factors to consider. Each apple tree variety has its own characteristics, which can make your gardening life easier or more challenging. Let's look at the main ones:

Fruiting and yield

Different varieties ripen at different times of the year. Some delight you with their fruit as early as early summer, while others ripen closer to fall. Furthermore, there are high-yielding varieties that will delight you with a large number of apples. Finally, it's important to consider the frequency of fruiting: some apple trees bear fruit annually, while others only every other year.

Winter hardiness and disease resistance

If you live in a region with harsh winters, it's important to choose a variety with high winter hardiness. Furthermore, apple trees are susceptible to many diseases, so it's worth considering varieties with increased resistance.

Taste and aroma of fruits

This criterion is perhaps the most subjective, but no less important. There are sweet apples, tart apples, aromatic apples, crisp apples, and soft apples. The choice depends solely on your personal preferences and goals: whether you want to use apples for desserts, jam, or simply enjoy their fresh taste.

Review of the best apple varieties

Now that we've covered the basic selection criteria, let's take a look at the most popular and esteemed apple tree varieties.

Antonovka

A classic Russian variety known for its winter hardiness and disease resistance, Antonovka's fruits have a distinctive sweet and sour flavor and distinct aroma. They are excellent for making jams, juices, and compotes.

White filling

This early apple variety ripens as early as July. Its fruits are distinguished by their tender, juicy flesh, which literally melts in your mouth. The White Naliv variety is popular due to its low maintenance and excellent yield.

Golden Delicious

An American variety that has won the hearts of gardeners worldwide. Its light yellow fruits are sweet, with a subtle honey aroma. Golden Delicious boasts a long shelf life and high disease resistance.

Melba

A Canadian variety that has proven itself to be one of the most delicious. The fruits are medium-sized, with red skin and crisp flesh. Melba ripens in late August to early September and is known for its good yield.

Sinap Orlovsky

This winter variety ripens closer to October. The apples are large, green, and lightly blushed. Sinap Orlovsky has excellent flavor and a long shelf life—until spring.

Columnar apple tree

Where to buy apple tree seedlings?

When purchasing seedlings, it's important to choose trusted and reliable sources. Here are some recommendations:

Garden nurseries

The most reliable option is to contact specialized garden nurseries. They will offer you not only high-quality seedlings but also expert advice on choosing and caring for trees. Furthermore, nurseries often sell certified seedlings, eliminating the risk of purchasing low-quality material. Flower seedlings, apple, pear, plum, and other fruit tree saplings, conifers, and more can be purchased from plant nurseries with mail delivery throughout Moscow, Russia, and the CIS.

Online stores

Modern technology makes it possible to purchase seedlings without even leaving home. Many online stores offer a wide selection of fruit trees and convenient delivery. However, it's important to be careful and choose trusted online platforms with good reviews.

Fairs and exhibitions

You can also find high-quality seedlings at garden fairs and exhibitions. Direct communication with the seller allows you to clarify all the details and receive care recommendations.

When to plant apple trees?

Timing apple tree planting is key to successfully growing the trees. Certain times of the year are ideal for planting, ensuring rapid rooting and healthy growth of the seedlings.

Spring planting

Spring is perhaps the most popular time for planting apple trees. It's important to choose a time when the soil has warmed up, but the heat hasn't yet set in. This typically occurs between April and May, depending on the region. The advantages of spring planting include active growth and root development over the summer and fall.

Autumn planting

Autumn is also a good time to plant trees. The main advantage is the time savings: the seedlings have time to take root before the cold weather sets in. In autumn, it is recommended to plant apple trees in September-October. The winter cold will allow the seedlings to harden off and become stronger.

Practical tips for planting apple trees

Now we'll share some practical tips to help you plant your apple tree correctly and ensure its successful growth and development.

Choosing a landing site

It's important to plant apple trees in a sunny, well-lit location, protected from strong winds. The soil should be loose and fertile, with good drainage. Apple trees don't like stagnant water, so avoid low-lying areas and areas with high groundwater levels.

Preparing the planting hole

The planting hole should be prepared several weeks before the planned planting date. It should be approximately 60-70 cm deep and approximately 100 cm in diameter. It's important to prepare a nutritious soil mixture of topsoil, humus, and mineral fertilizer.

Planting and care

When planting a seedling, it's important to carefully spread the roots to prevent them from bending or breaking. When filling the hole with soil, carefully compact the soil and water the tree generously. Subsequent apple tree care includes regular watering, fertilizing, and pruning to shape the crown.

Features of caring for apple trees of different varieties

Each apple tree variety has its own characteristics, which impact its care. Let's look at the main differences:

Early varieties

Early varieties, such as White Filling, require special attention in the spring. It's important to provide the trees with sufficient moisture, especially during the period of active growth and flowering. Pest and disease control should also be considered, as early varieties are more susceptible to them.

Winter varieties

Winter-bearing varieties, such as Sinap Orlovsky, require special preparation for winter. In the fall, pruning is necessary, removing damaged and diseased branches. In winter, it's important to insulate the trunk and root zone of the trees to prevent them from freezing.

Conclusion

Selecting and planting apple trees is a fascinating process that requires attention and care. The right variety, planting, and care will allow you to enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious and healthy apples. Contact a nursery to purchase seedlings. May your garden become a source of joy and satisfaction, and may your apple trees delight you with their beautiful blossoms and juicy fruit for years to come.