Melba apple tree: description of the variety, reviews

This particular apple variety is quite popular all over the world. If you look at some of the reviews from gardeners, you'll see that these apple trees are spoken of very positively. If a gardener wants to plant such a variety on their property, fruit trees, he should learn a little more about this particular apple tree variety and how to properly care for such plants in the first months of their life.

A detailed description of this variety, a few words about its origin

This variety is quite young, especially when compared to other apple tree species. However, this particular plant has a long and interesting history, which will be discussed in more detail in this article. It's worth noting that the Melba apple tree, based on descriptions (photos) and reviews, has quite a rich history. The first seeds were created back in 1898, when the variety was bred accidentally during the self-pollination of another apple tree variety.

The first tree, which began to bear sweet and incredibly delicious apples, was grown from a seed. The tree was grown in Canada, and later, the seeds of this plant migrated to more southern countries. A little later, gardeners living in the Moscow region and in colder regions also began growing these apple trees. However, it's worth noting that these apple trees thrive and bear fruit only in warmer regions of the country. For example, many grow these fruits in Ukraine, as the climate there is ideal for this apple variety.

Melba apple trees, according to descriptions, photos, and reviews (videos), have a low trunk. Once fully grown, the crown eventually takes on a nearly even, rounded shape, requiring no assistance in shaping the crown. This particular apple variety produces incredibly beautiful and large flower buds, most often delicate shades of white with hints of purple; in some cases, the flowers themselves are painted in soft pink hues.

How does the plant behave during the ripening of apple fruits?

Ripening occurs at the very end of summer, most often between late August and mid-September. Each fruit can be quite large, but medium-sized apples are most common. The fruit should be slightly flattened, weighing 150 grams or more. When touched, the fruit is very tender and smooth, with a thin waxy coating on the surface. Each ripe fruit has a very sweet flavor, and the flesh itself is medium-dense and juicy, with a scent reminiscent of sweet caramel candies. Important to know: apple tree planting patterns in autumnto get a large harvest of these fruits.

Does the apple tree have any advantages and disadvantages?

Although this variety is very popular, it does have some advantages and disadvantages that require special attention. It's worth starting with the fact that each apple tree has its own strengths. When it comes to the Melba apple tree, whether it's planted early or late isn't as important based on descriptions, photos, and reviews, but the late variety is most often found. The undeniable advantage of this fruit tree is its fertility, as well as its ability to produce a harvest very early after planting.

For example, if a gardener plants a small tree in their garden, with proper care it will produce its first harvest in just four years, a significant advantage over other apple varieties. The fruit ripens quite early, so by late summer, the gardener can harvest the first crop of ripe apples and enjoy their wonderful, juicy flavor.

Another advantage this variety has over other apple trees is its large harvest. While the apple tree is still growing and developing slowly, the gardener shouldn't expect a large harvest, but once the tree has grown sufficiently, it's possible to obtain a truly excellent harvest in just one year of fruiting.

A tree reaches full maturity after approximately eleven years of growth. With proper annual care, by its peak, the tree can produce between thirty and eighty kilograms of apples per season. However, the harvest will also depend on the weather conditions in a given region. If the apple trees are quite old, they bear fruit periodically, meaning they can produce a harvest every two or three years, which will be the first sign of renewal.

What is so attractive about ripe fruits?

Ripe apples are ideal for market sale; the fruits have a beautiful appearance and are impressive in size. Furthermore, these apples have excellent flavor and exceptional juiciness, which is a major selling point. Trees can grow in a variety of conditions, but the main factor is a long summer period, which is why apple trees thrive in the southern regions of our country.

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Even ripe fruits can be stored for a long time after picking, which is why these varieties are often transported to markets across the country. Sellers don't have to worry about the quality of the goods they receive, as the large fruits will withstand transportation well and retain their attractive appearance. Even if a gardener picks the fruit for themselves and their family, the apples can be stored in a convenient location, where they will remain fresh and tasty for at least two months. Many people know about the Melba's Daughter apple variety; the description (photo) and reviews of this tree speak only of the positive qualities, which is why many gardeners choose to plant this type of fruit tree in their gardens.

If we consider not only the taste of this type of fruit but also its nutritional value, we can see that these apples are considered the healthiest. Each fruit contains a large amount of sugar, fiber, a small amount of essential vitamin C, and pectin, which is essential for normal body function. However, this product is completely fat-free, which is certainly a plus.

How else are the fruits of this variety used?

Gardeners can make delicious compotes from these sweet and juicy apples, and they also make excellent jams and preserves. Since apple trees produce a substantial harvest, the fruit can be processed into juice or dried. Dried apples retain the most nutrients, and in winter, they are used for compotes, pie fillings, or flavorful pies.