Top 20 Apple Varieties to Grow: Tips and Advice for a Successful Harvest

If you’re considering growing your own apples, choosing the right variety is crucial. Different apple varieties thrive in various climates, serve distinct culinary purposes, and offer unique flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, this guide will introduce you to the top 20 apple varieties to grow, along with some essential tips and advice to ensure a bountiful harvest.

1. Honeycrisp

A modern favorite for its exceptional crispness and balanced sweetness. Honeycrisp thrives in cooler climates and requires plenty of space for its large, vigorous trees.

Tip: Ensure the soil is well-drained and rich in organic matter for the best flavor.

2. Gala

One of the most widely grown apples, Gala is known for its sweet, mild flavor and adaptability to a wide range of climates.

Tip: Plant Gala in full sun for optimal fruit production.

3. Fuji

Originally from Japan, Fuji apples are known for their sweetness and long shelf life. They do best in warmer climates.

Tip: Prune the tree to encourage better airflow and light penetration for larger fruits.

4. Granny Smith

This tart green apple is perfect for baking and making cider. It grows well in various climates, but it’s especially successful in warmer regions.

Tip: Granny Smith requires a long growing season, so plant it in areas with a late frost.

5. Pink Lady (Cripps Pink)

With its vibrant color and balanced sweet-tart flavor, Pink Lady is popular for fresh eating and cooking.

Tip: Pink Lady apples need a warm climate and plenty of sun to ripen fully.

6. Golden Delicious

This yellow apple is a reliable producer with a sweet, mellow flavor. It grows well in many regions and is versatile in the kitchen.

Tip: Plant in well-drained soil and ensure it receives full sun for the best yields.

7. Braeburn

Braeburn apples are crisp, with a sharp, sweet-tart flavor. They’re versatile and store well, making them a great choice for home growers.

Tip: Ensure regular watering, especially during dry periods, for optimal fruit development.

8. Jonagold

A cross between Jonathan and Golden Delicious, Jonagold offers a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. It does best in temperate climates.

Tip: Prune regularly to maintain a good shape and promote fruiting.

9. McIntosh

A classic cold-climate apple, McIntosh is known for its tender flesh and slightly tart flavor. It’s excellent for making applesauce and cider.

Tip: Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases like apple scab.

10. Cortland

Cortland apples are similar to McIntosh but tend to be a bit sweeter. They are excellent for fresh eating and salads as they resist browning.

Tip: Cortland trees benefit from cross-pollination with other apple varieties to enhance fruit set.

11. Empire

A cross between McIntosh and Red Delicious, Empire apples are sweet, crisp, and perfect for snacking.

Tip: Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.

12. Spartan

Spartan apples are small, red, and sweet, with a hint of tartness. They do well in cooler climates and are great for fresh eating.

Tip: Thin the fruit to prevent overloading the tree, which can reduce the size and quality of the apples.

13. Ashmead’s Kernel

A heritage variety with a unique, complex flavor that combines sweetness, acidity, and a hint of spiciness. It’s perfect for cider making.

Tip: Be patient—Ashmead’s Kernel trees take several years to bear fruit but are well worth the wait.

14. Winesap

Known for its wine-like flavor, Winesap is great for cider and baking. It’s a hardy variety that grows well in a range of climates.

Tip: Winesap trees need cross-pollination from another apple variety for the best fruit production.

15. Red Delicious

Once the most popular apple in the U.S., Red Delicious is prized for its sweet flavor and attractive appearance. It grows well in many regions.

Tip: Thin the fruit early in the season to encourage larger apples.

16. Rome Beauty

Rome Beauty apples are known for their versatility in cooking, particularly baking, where they hold their shape and flavor well.

Tip: Plant Rome Beauty in full sun and well-drained soil for the best results.

17. Cox’s Orange Pippin

This English variety is known for its complex, aromatic flavor. It requires a temperate climate and a lot of care to grow successfully.

Tip: Cox’s Orange Pippin is susceptible to diseases, so keep an eye on tree health and use organic sprays as needed.

18. Mutsu (Crispin)

A large green apple with a sweet, honeyed flavor, Mutsu is perfect for fresh eating and baking. It grows best in warmer regions.

Tip: Prune regularly to control its vigorous growth and ensure good fruit production.

19. Liberty

A disease-resistant variety that’s perfect for organic gardens, Liberty apples have a sweet-tart flavor and are great for fresh eating.

Tip: Since it’s resistant to many common apple diseases, it’s a low-maintenance choice for backyard growers.

20. Arkansas Black

This deep red apple is known for its dense, crisp texture and tart flavor. It grows well in warm climates and is excellent for long-term storage.

Tip: Arkansas Black apples improve in flavor with storage, so keep them in a cool place after harvest.

Tips for Growing Apples Successfully

1. Location is key: Choose a spot with full sun and well-drained soil.
2. Cross-pollination: Most apple varieties need a second variety nearby to ensure good pollination and fruit set.
3. Pruning: Regular pruning is essential to keep your trees healthy, promote airflow, and improve fruit size.
4. Watering: Deep watering is essential, especially during dry periods, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
5. Pest control: Monitor for common pests like aphids, codling moths, and apple maggots. Use organic or chemical controls as needed.
6. Fertilization: Feed your apple trees annually with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and fruiting.

Common Questions and Answers

Q1: How long does it take for an apple tree to produce fruit?
Most apple trees take 3 to 5 years to produce fruit after planting, though some varieties may take longer.

Q2: What is the best time to plant apple trees?
The best time to plant apple trees is in early spring or late fall when the tree is dormant.

Q3: How often should I water my apple tree?
Apple trees should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season, more frequently in hot or dry conditions.

Q4: Can I grow apples in a small space?
Yes, dwarf or semi-dwarf apple trees are perfect for smaller spaces and can even be grown in large containers.

Q5: How do I prevent apple tree diseases?
Good air circulation, proper pruning, and using disease-resistant varieties are key to preventing common apple tree diseases like apple scab and fire blight.