{"title":"Best Apples for Cooking","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe 9 varieties in our catalog that scored 8 or higher out of 10 for cooking and roasting. Scored on savory dishes, poaching, roasting, grilling, stewing and chutney, where the fruit has to hold together and hold its flavor.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAn 8 is Very good on the adapted Beach (1905) grade, a 9 is Very good to best and a 10 is Best. Varieties that scored 6 or 7 are genuinely good at this too, and you will find them under the matching Shop by Use group.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eEvery score in this list is sourced. Nothing is here because it is popular, and nothing is here on our word alone. The full evidence, including what each variety scored for every other use and why, is in the use guide.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"red-gravenstein","title":"Gravenstein Apple","description":"\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOverview\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-wrap-mode: wrap;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"white-space-collapse: preserve;\"\u003eWe have updated out hardiness for Gravenstein. Not only has this \u003c\/span\u003evariety been successfully growing on Bruce Benson’s farm in Missoula for over 50 years, enduring multiple -30°F winters, it has survived well for Les McCartney in the low spot of the Gallatin Valley in Bozeman, MT, having seen -45F without much winter injury. Gravenstein is a solid zone 3 apple.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eImportant Growing Considerations\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eGravenstein comes with a few specific requirements:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTriploid Variety\u003c\/strong\u003e: It cannot pollenize other apples and requires \u003cstrong\u003etwo diploid pollenizers\u003c\/strong\u003e with overlapping bloom times for successful fruit set.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEarly Blooming\u003c\/strong\u003e: Choose pollenizers accordingly to match its bloom window.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNot a Good Keeper\u003c\/strong\u003e: This apple does not store well post-harvest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eDisease Resistance and Susceptibility\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eGravenstein is:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSusceptible to\u003c\/strong\u003e: Fireblight, powdery mildew, bitter pit, and apple scab\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eResistant to\u003c\/strong\u003e: Cedar-apple rust\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eFlavor Profile\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eGravenstein has a distinctive sweet-tart flavor, often appreciated for its honey-like notes, making it a favorite for fresh eating and cider.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eHardiness Zone and Recommendations\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eThis apple is best suited for Zone 4, based on its ability to survive down to -33°F. However, we do not recommend planting it in areas that routinely experience temps colder than this.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Bud 118 Semi-Dwarf: 3-4 ft. (One Year Older)","offer_id":42499184656450,"sku":null,"price":54.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bud 118 Semi-Dwarf: 4-6 ft. (One Year Older) Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping","offer_id":45131995086914,"sku":null,"price":74.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bud 118 Semi-Dwarf: 5-7 ft. (One Year Older) Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping","offer_id":45131995119682,"sku":null,"price":89.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/gravenstein-apple-fruit.webp?v=1789020103"},{"product_id":"northern-spy-apple","title":"Northern Spy Apple","description":"\u003ch3\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNorthern Spy – A Firm, Flavorful Classic and Breeding Powerhouse\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNorthern Spy was one of the favorite apples of our mentor, Rod McIver. Rod grew it up in Kalispell, where the climate is slightly colder and the growing season shorter than in Missoula. As a late-season variety, Northern Spy was just on the edge of being able to ripen in time for him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAccording to Rod:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“\u003cem\u003eExcellent flavor and firmness, a personal favorite. Many great apples have been derived from it, including Honeycrisp, Sweet 16, Keepsake, etc. Seldom ripens on the tree before the last frost; however, the fruits can be picked and ripen in storage, and they keep very well.\u003c\/em\u003e”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eRipening and Storage\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile Northern Spy often struggles to ripen fully on the tree before the first frost, it is known for ripening well off the tree and storing beautifully. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking for a late apple that can develop flavor in storage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eRootstock and Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor Spring 2027, we have Northern Spy on Bud 118, a semi-dwarf rootstock (in our soils\/climate in MT) that is hardy to roughly -50F (possibly more if there is consistent snow cover).\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Bud 118 Semi-Dwarf: 2-4 ft.","offer_id":42518934028354,"sku":null,"price":39.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bud 118 Semi-Dwarf: 4-6 ft. (Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping)","offer_id":45134156693570,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/northern-spy-apple-on-tree.webp?v=1789020680"},{"product_id":"belle-de-boskoop-aple","title":"Belle de Boskoop Apple","description":"\u003cp\u003eBelle de Boskoop is a large, tart, heirloom apple that originated in Boskoop, Netherlands, in 1856. Recognized for its rustic greenish-yellow skin with red blush and russeting, it has firm, crisp, aromatic flesh with high acidity. This makes it an outstanding all-purpose apple—excellent for pies, cakes, and strudels, prized in cider blends, and sharp but enjoyable fresh if you like a tangy flavor. A superb keeper, its flavor mellows and improves in storage over several months.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe tree is vigorous, heavy-bearing, and some have reported showing a good resistance to scab and canker. It is triploid, requiring a compatible mid-blooming pollenizer, and ripens late in the season. Hardy to zone 4, will liekly do well in most places in Western Montana. Likely wouldn't survive in areas that experience below -40F.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlease note: this is the first year we’re growing Belle de Boskoop in Montana, so our notes are based on trusted secondhand sources rather than firsthand experience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/User:Sandstein\"\u003eImage courtesy of Wikimedia user Sandstein\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Bud 118 Semi-Dwarf: 5-7 ft. (One Year Older) Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping","offer_id":45124784652354,"sku":null,"price":89.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/belle-de-boskoop-apple-fruit.jpg?v=1789019191"},{"product_id":"glocken-apfel-apple","title":"Glockenapfel Apple","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"231\"\u003eThis is the first year we have grown Glockenapfel, and we have not yet tasted the fruit or observed its long-term behavior under Montana conditions, so the information below should be considered secondhand rather than experiential.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"233\" data-end=\"247\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"248\" data-end=\"711\"\u003eFrom the research we have done in creating this description, as well as from what we have read about the variety, Glockenapfel (also known as Weißer Winterglockenapfel and related regional names) is an old European winter apple of uncertain origin that was widely grown in parts of Central Europe. It was historically valued as a true storage apple, prized for keeping quality and for developing flavor after harvest rather than being eaten straight off the tree.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"713\" data-end=\"739\"\u003eFruit Quality \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"740\" data-end=\"1208\"\u003eFrom what we have read, Glockenapfel is a versatile apple used for fresh eating after storage, baking, cooking, and juice or cider in traditional settings. Apparently, the fruit improves significantly with storage, with flavor becoming fuller and more balanced over time, which is characteristic of classic winter apples. It has been described as more useful than flashy, with strengths in reliability and post-harvest performance rather than immediate dessert appeal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1210\" data-end=\"1230\"\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1231\" data-end=\"1746\"\u003eBased on available cultivar descriptions and regional trial notes, Glockenapfel is generally described as winter-hardy and frost-tolerant. Multiple sources suggest survival down to approximately −33°C (around −27°F). This places it as a mildly cold-hardy apple, but not an extreme cold survivor in the −40°F or colder class. Applied to Montana, it appears best suited to milder sites, such as many Zone 5 areas and protected Zone 4b microclimates, rather than the coldest Zone 3 locations. Therefore, it could be grown in the best microclimates (up on a bench\/out of frost pooling zones) within the warmest Montana Valleys west of the divide: Bitterroot, Blackfoot, Clark Fork, Flathead Valley, Jocko, Lower Kootenai, Mission, Missoula, and Upper Flathead \/ North Fork\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1748\" data-end=\"1775\"\u003eOther Characteristics\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1776\" data-end=\"2266\"\u003eApparently excellent storage ability, often keeping well into late winter or early spring under proper conditions. It also has historical significance in apple breeding, having been used as a parent in later cultivars such as Gloster. Reports generally describe moderate disease pressure, with some susceptibility to scab and canker, and better performance on fertile, well-managed soils with adequate moisture rather than thin or drought-prone sites (although since this is grafted onto Bud 118, which seems fairly drought tolerant, not sure why sources site this given rootstock choice would matter more).\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Bud 118 Semi-Dwarf: 4-6 ft. (One Year Older) Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping","offer_id":42499090939970,"sku":null,"price":74.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/glockenapfel-apple-harvest.jpg?v=1789020067"},{"product_id":"spokane-beauty-apple","title":"Spokane Beauty Apple","description":"\u003ch3\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpokane Beauty is a historic Inland Northwest heritage apple valued for its exceptional fruit size, attractive red striping, and strong performance in cold continental climates. It is a dual-purpose dessert and culinary apple long recognized for producing very large fruit with excellent flavor and dependable productivity. The variety became one of the few apple cultivars from eastern Washington to achieve regional notoriety and commercial recognition in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOrigin \u0026amp; History\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpokane Beauty originated in Walla Walla, Washington in the mid-1800s as a chance seedling grown from planted apple pips by settler Stephen Maxson. Its exact parentage is unknown and has never been definitively identified. The seedling was later introduced and promoted by the Maxson family and became known as Spokane Beauty after being exhibited regionally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe variety quickly gained recognition when it was presented at the Spokane Fruit Fair, where it won first-place ribbons in both 1895 and 1896. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries it became one of the most notable apple varieties originating from eastern Washington and was widely planted throughout the Inland Northwest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpokane Beauty reflects the early homesteading era of fruit growing in the Pacific Northwest, when orchardists planted seeds and selected exceptional seedlings capable of surviving harsh continental winters. Because apples do not grow true from seed, Spokane Beauty represents a unique genetic individual preserved through grafting since its discovery.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFruit \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpokane Beauty produces very large to extremely large apples, sometimes reaching extraordinary size and weight compared to most dessert apples. The fruit is round to slightly irregular, with a pale green to yellow base color covered by bright red striping or blush. The flesh is white, crisp, firm, and juicy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen we first tried these apples on Rod McIver’s farm in Kalispell, MT in the Fall of 2023 the first thing we noticed was their massive size. Thinking that the flavor was likely going to be watered down, this was exactly the opposite experience. The flavor was excellent. Good sweetness, with a nice touch of acidity, the apple had a very pleasant lemon flavor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe fruit is excellent for fresh eating and also performs well for baking, drying, sauce, and juice. It holds shape well when cooked and stores for roughly three to four months under proper storage conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowth Habit\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTrees are vigorous and upright to spreading with strong structural growth. Spokane Beauty is a tip-bearing variety that produces fruit on terminal shoots and tends toward annual cropping with proper management. It is known for early productivity, strong vigor, and reliable performance in colder orchard regions. Fruit thinning is often beneficial due to its tendency toward heavy crops.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpacing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe offer Spokane Beauty on Budagovsky 118 rootstock.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn Bud 118, trees should be spaced about 15 feet apart. For tighter plantings, spacing can be reduced to 12 feet apart. For wider spacing in fertile soils or lower-density systems, trees can be spaced up to 18 feet apart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePollination\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLike almost all apples, Spokane Beauty is not self-fertile and requires cross-pollination from another apple or crabapple with overlapping bloom. It is diploid and blooms in the mid-season apple bloom window.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuitable pollenizers include any genetically distinct mid-season blooming Malus domestica or Malus crabapple. From our offerings, this includes McIntosh, Spartan, Kerr, Trailman, Goodland, Liberty, Wealthy, and many others.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpokane Beauty is highly adapted to cold continental climates. It is at least hardy to at least −35°F without winter injury, as shown on Rod McIver’s farm from the −35°F event his property experienced on January 13, 2024 in Kalispell, MT off of Rose Crossing. At least zone 3b.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOther Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpokane Beauty is notable for its unusually large fruit size, with some specimens historically recorded at extremely large weights compared to standard apples. It was also selected as a parent for later cultivars and sports, including the large-fruited Stark Jumbo strain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe variety is susceptible to apple scab and powdery mildew and benefits from standard orchard disease management. Despite this, it has remained valued as a hardy regional heirloom that represents the seedling-selection tradition of early Northwestern orchardists and the development of locally adapted cold-climate fruit genetics\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReference Plate (w\/ cm grid) Image: Resolution enhanced from a public domain image. The apple is unchanged, but some of the surrounding text and numbers may vary.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Bud 118 Semi-Dwarf: 5-7 ft. (One Year Older) Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping","offer_id":42504710488130,"sku":null,"price":89.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/spokane-beauty-apple-in-hand.jpg?v=1789021109"},{"product_id":"martha-applecrab","title":"Martha Applecrab","description":"\u003ch3 data-start=\"8503\" data-end=\"8517\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"8518\" data-end=\"8836\"\u003eMartha is an applecrab from Minnesota dating to the late 1800s, commonly associated with the work of Peter Gideon (the same Minnesota pioneer famous for the Wealthy apple). It’s grown because it’s hardy, reliable, and genuinely useful for fresh eating and cooking. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"8838\" data-end=\"8863\"\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Parentage\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"8864\" data-end=\"9121\"\u003eEdible Crab, applecrab, crabapple. People have different names for Martha and given that we do not know exactly if it is a cross between a pure crab and a domesticated apple (unlike Kerr, which is Dolgo x Harlason), Rod and others we know in Montana refer to it as an applecrab. Its history goes back to the late 1800s, tied to Peter Gideon’s era of Minnesota fruit work. Formal parentage is not typically published in the references most growers use. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"9123\" data-end=\"9149\"\u003eFruit Quality \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"9150\" data-end=\"9444\"\u003eMartha is rose-red, about 2 inches across, with crisp, juicy, slightly yellow flesh and a sweet-tart flavor. The flavor is exceptional and life changing (see the story below!). It’s used for fresh eating, baking, sauce, jelly\/jam, and as an excellent addition to cider blends. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"9446\" data-end=\"9474\"\u003eGrowth Habit \u0026amp; Spacing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"9475\" data-end=\"9745\"\u003eIt’s spreading\/open and productive. Spacing depends on rootstock and training, some of these are on Bud 118 and can be spaced 15 ft. apart. The full size Dolgo should be 20 ft. apart. Both rootstocks can be spaced tighter for a more intense spacing\/pruning regiment, or even further apart for a more lax approach.\u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"9747\" data-end=\"9764\"\u003ePollination\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"9765\" data-end=\"9920\"\u003eAs with essentially all apples\/crabapples, cross-pollination improves fruit set. The list is long but some ideas to go with Martha include Trailman, Kerr, Chestnut, Rescue, Dearborn's Unknown, Mantet, Norland, Norson, Norda, Lodi, Yellow Transparent, and many others.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"9922\" data-end=\"9942\"\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"9943\" data-end=\"10196\"\u003eGiven Martha's success in which it saw no winter injury in Corvallis, MT that saw -38F on 1\/13\/24, Martha is at least hardy to -40F. It's certainly a zone 3a apple, and is likely hardy down to temps even colder, although we simply don't have this data yet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFun Backstory\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px;\"\u003eOne of Luke's mentors, the late \u003cspan class=\"il\"\u003eRod McIver\u003c\/span\u003e, fell in love with fruit growing because of a single taste. When he was in his 50s, a friend from Oregon handed him a \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.montanafruittrees.com\/_t\/c\/v3\/AACsm56CLUQm8PHnpjZJ64o3DU_-RxuYkckCIF9_OXtewTiiHf1d4yS1eX6AkYxH7zNslo9VBXsXd_IkCa8g-5SrMyjOAEYXetqr0XIEkCRbxBB7YD4IvWA-G8hg6_2eSrF-0Oq7sEMYsrWdQSu5ibdBWF6o3azLaDWRqCX8Ci2JTuyQmRZDktPtcuJ7bO7s5rs_WD8judVHVJtCGea7RzYBjDfHtLpOoULrRaDOvOKscnzuzE5P-rqjEnM1xg-_6EARbcjI2S4eubdYpblYS-4oPw9w7vCokh_rsOoF97kwRLdx8Is1dKpNzwLJqzTDI-ei03BGiv-FWyYgzM9L-LRXMpJmON4bheQEJxttZtXnYIhXsZh_t9nZ8zU5gtAXR3Ls_YeVsq9VHtOGsf3xBtUUwVuM96YktKVNirmDtEA-mMF43coPuZ4w3gK_YtcN0A9J5K-6YATipt2XDVjPct3VKzSi01pSX2QrvuNYQd0Fq7DLfZ6JhHjDH0H1m5bVIFxmJlthqq9jkEtIU_uKb9NedHoUsOzhxeQZRDHH_tg=\" style=\"color: rgb(0,0,0); text-decoration: underline;\" data-saferedirecturl=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=https:\/\/www.montanafruittrees.com\/_t\/c\/v3\/AACsm56CLUQm8PHnpjZJ64o3DU_-RxuYkckCIF9_OXtewTiiHf1d4yS1eX6AkYxH7zNslo9VBXsXd_IkCa8g-5SrMyjOAEYXetqr0XIEkCRbxBB7YD4IvWA-G8hg6_2eSrF-0Oq7sEMYsrWdQSu5ibdBWF6o3azLaDWRqCX8Ci2JTuyQmRZDktPtcuJ7bO7s5rs_WD8judVHVJtCGea7RzYBjDfHtLpOoULrRaDOvOKscnzuzE5P-rqjEnM1xg-_6EARbcjI2S4eubdYpblYS-4oPw9w7vCokh_rsOoF97kwRLdx8Is1dKpNzwLJqzTDI-ei03BGiv-FWyYgzM9L-LRXMpJmON4bheQEJxttZtXnYIhXsZh_t9nZ8zU5gtAXR3Ls_YeVsq9VHtOGsf3xBtUUwVuM96YktKVNirmDtEA-mMF43coPuZ4w3gK_YtcN0A9J5K-6YATipt2XDVjPct3VKzSi01pSX2QrvuNYQd0Fq7DLfZ6JhHjDH0H1m5bVIFxmJlthqq9jkEtIU_uKb9NedHoUsOzhxeQZRDHH_tg%3D\u0026amp;source=gmail\u0026amp;ust=1768609171279000\u0026amp;usg=AOvVaw1rXZn2TL0fn8ZYk40hAKNz\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eWickson crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e. The flavor floored him. Wanting to grow it but unable to find a nursery that carried it, he was told the only solution was to learn to graft. So he did. He found cuttings, grafted one successfully, waited four years, and when he finally tasted the fruit he said, in his southern drawl, “This ain’t the fruit I tried five years ago!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px;\"\u003eThat started a decade-long quest. He gathered cuttings from near and far, trialed rootstocks, and devoured books. He didn't realize it at the time but he was falling in love with fruit growing and \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.montanafruittrees.com\/_t\/c\/v3\/AADghJHHwunoPHpr4vQW5PSUxHJOZ5HACNkIZTHmvNx_R9Qc-k9Dr6Sd-BWFsVtLzvRaBvzyuKYKoOyo_mCjzYqVSB1BdEf8DEgJafPQ3sbieI6TH9_zpr5PwvOxOtoYrzRHwCXGuB3IjOX5Czk1n8iXa48hCV0xGOW6g4LKuM1z-pt2wVVjmheDdmAjYs-iSRdQrKVLuCGiJKCY_O5QPr4iHjXamk5NvCc32edS5L7ITPfwasJU-SMoNG7IEKO0ELajqKeKzAQtKuzBCMxFxWmAYct9UT2FsvQL6BdtI5HBkKSVuehHM7X_\" style=\"color: rgb(0,0,0); text-decoration: underline;\" data-saferedirecturl=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=https:\/\/www.montanafruittrees.com\/_t\/c\/v3\/AADghJHHwunoPHpr4vQW5PSUxHJOZ5HACNkIZTHmvNx_R9Qc-k9Dr6Sd-BWFsVtLzvRaBvzyuKYKoOyo_mCjzYqVSB1BdEf8DEgJafPQ3sbieI6TH9_zpr5PwvOxOtoYrzRHwCXGuB3IjOX5Czk1n8iXa48hCV0xGOW6g4LKuM1z-pt2wVVjmheDdmAjYs-iSRdQrKVLuCGiJKCY_O5QPr4iHjXamk5NvCc32edS5L7ITPfwasJU-SMoNG7IEKO0ELajqKeKzAQtKuzBCMxFxWmAYct9UT2FsvQL6BdtI5HBkKSVuehHM7X_\u0026amp;source=gmail\u0026amp;ust=1768609171279000\u0026amp;usg=AOvVaw1D7LuwVvkJNcD2CfU7uprV\" target=\"_blank\"\u003epomology\u003c\/a\u003e (the science\/practice of growing fruit). Finally one late-summer evening, he plucked a tree ripened apple, took a bite, and shouted, “By God, I’ve found it. Martha!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px;\"\u003eThat was the name of the apple he’d tried all those years earlier (and funny enough, the name of his eldest daughter!). Rod went on to have the largest \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.montanafruittrees.com\/_t\/c\/v3\/AACfyB2T7I3cMjlcPqDEm3QA7BdsHFABoUbY9fGzJ6Fs050mLek5YeDccIFYDS0xB1-kxTSVw9UhP320P9-qsg7BCuxaP2VQiFPqw5YOi7EnSvNf866rvKWEQquiWQ_LzaF32oJFzuL6AwBbHpLT1hn0mxOh3SBdQJo18SUtYzMShX4bq9A5a-ASQMF-t0LTEoSvzsYEJuZaoUSXD8NwReGHHAVL_Nc4zD4MPgAINNvSWql9GVnxOHILGTWy6OL5VFdciiquFMdntmiu3hJ3kfcbtTx-HT3tFIrXhwpLjXFq5DvQ2NKeBRv4Fg==\" style=\"color: rgb(0,0,0); text-decoration: underline;\" data-saferedirecturl=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=https:\/\/www.montanafruittrees.com\/_t\/c\/v3\/AACfyB2T7I3cMjlcPqDEm3QA7BdsHFABoUbY9fGzJ6Fs050mLek5YeDccIFYDS0xB1-kxTSVw9UhP320P9-qsg7BCuxaP2VQiFPqw5YOi7EnSvNf866rvKWEQquiWQ_LzaF32oJFzuL6AwBbHpLT1hn0mxOh3SBdQJo18SUtYzMShX4bq9A5a-ASQMF-t0LTEoSvzsYEJuZaoUSXD8NwReGHHAVL_Nc4zD4MPgAINNvSWql9GVnxOHILGTWy6OL5VFdciiquFMdntmiu3hJ3kfcbtTx-HT3tFIrXhwpLjXFq5DvQ2NKeBRv4Fg%3D%3D\u0026amp;source=gmail\u0026amp;ust=1768609171279000\u0026amp;usg=AOvVaw3D_qfrxqXbkHR6HK4cBI6F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003egermplasm\u003c\/a\u003e of fruit varieties in the whole state, and it all started with Martha.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eImages courtesy \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.mofga.org\/maineheritageorchard\/martha-crab\/\"\u003eMaine Organic Farmers and Gardeners\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Malus baccata Full Size: 3-4 ft.","offer_id":45133920665666,"sku":null,"price":44.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Malus baccata Full Size: 4-6 ft. (Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping)","offer_id":45133920698434,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bud 118 Semi-Dwarf: 4-6 ft. (One Year Older) Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping","offer_id":42500875714626,"sku":null,"price":74.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/martha-applecrab-fruit.jpg?v=1789020605"},{"product_id":"newtown-pippin-apple","title":"Newtown Pippin Apple","description":"\u003ch3 data-start=\"190\" data-end=\"201\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"203\" data-end=\"538\"\u003eNewtown Pippin is one of the oldest American apples, originating as a chance seedling in Newtown (now Elmhurst), Queens \/ Long Island, New York in the late 1600s to early 1700s. It has long been regarded as a high-quality dessert apple with exceptional keeping ability and was historically prized for winter use after extended storage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"540\" data-end=\"562\"\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Parentage\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"564\" data-end=\"953\"\u003eParentage is unknown (seedling origin). The cultivar has circulated under several names, most notably \u003cem data-start=\"666\" data-end=\"684\"\u003eAlbemarle Pippin\u003c\/em\u003e, reflecting its long cultivation history in Virginia’s Albemarle region. Sources commonly distinguish Green Newtown and Yellow Newtown forms, which are often treated as closely related strains or sports rather than clearly separate cultivars in all references.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"955\" data-end=\"978\"\u003eFruit Quality \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"980\" data-end=\"1292\"\u003eNewtown Pippin is typically described as green to green-yellow, often with light russeting, and firm yellowish flesh. All the Newtown's we have grown in Missoula, are yellow with a nice blush when ready and are very pretty (see photos).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1294\" data-end=\"1922\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1294\" data-end=\"1342\"\u003eStorage taste notes (Luke Ruffner Robinson):\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1342\" data-end=\"1345\"\u003eFruit harvested in early fall (specifically on Oct. 22nd in Missoula) and stored under refrigeration until late February was tasted fresh on 2\/22\/25. After more than four months in cold storage, the apple remained crisp and crunchy, with no mealiness. The flavor had mellowed into a soft sweetness, with low perceived acidity, yet retained a subtle lemony character on the finish. Flesh texture was fine-grained, clean, and notably crisp, confirming Newtown Pippin’s reputation as a premier long-keeping dessert apple. Overall eating quality at this stage was excellent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1924\" data-end=\"2220\"\u003eUses include fresh eating after storage, long winter keeping, and cider production, where Newtown Pippin contributes aromatic complexity and structure rather than sharp acidity. Historically, it was valued precisely because it reached peak quality \u003cem data-start=\"2172\" data-end=\"2179\"\u003eafter\u003c\/em\u003e extended storage rather than at harvest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2222\" data-end=\"2247\"\u003eGrowth Habit \u0026amp; Spacing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2249\" data-end=\"2326\"\u003eTree vigor and final size depend heavily on rootstock. As a general baseline:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"2327\" data-end=\"2418\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2327\" data-end=\"2364\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2329\" data-end=\"2364\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2329\" data-end=\"2352\"\u003eSemi-dwarf systems:\u003c\/strong\u003e ~12–15+ ft\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2365\" data-end=\"2418\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2367\" data-end=\"2418\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2367\" data-end=\"2405\"\u003eMore vigorous or standard systems:\u003c\/strong\u003e ~18–20+ ft\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2420\" data-end=\"2434\"\u003ePollination\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2436\" data-end=\"2683\"\u003eNewtown Pippin is self-sterile and requires cross-pollination. Plant with another diploid apple cultivar with overlapping bloom. Some examples of pollenizers we offer for Newtown Pippin include: 9-22 End, \u003cspan data-state=\"closed\" class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eAlexander, \u003cspan data-state=\"closed\" class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eArkansas Black, \u003cspan data-state=\"closed\" class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eCarroll, \u003cspan data-state=\"closed\" class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eCortland, \u003cspan data-state=\"closed\" class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eCox Orange Pippin, \u003cspan data-state=\"closed\" class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eCrimson Beauty, Frostbite, Freedom, Empire, and many other mid-season blooming apples.\u003cspan data-state=\"closed\" class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2685\" data-end=\"2702\"\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2704\" data-end=\"3182\"\u003eMost places online list Newtown Pippin as a zone 4 apple. Ours have done well in a warm spot of Missoula that has not experienced sub-30F temps. So we are not necessarily sure if it would survive -30F or colder temps. For now we are listing it as a zone 4 apple until we know that it has survived colder temps. Therefore, this would only be for the warmest valleys in Western MT, such as Missoula, Bitterroot, Mission, Flathead, and Clark Fork, and should be sited in areas that avoid depressions\/preferably up on a bench and out of where frost settles.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Bud 118 Semi-Dwarf: 3-5 ft.","offer_id":42500903010370,"sku":null,"price":44.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bud 118 Semi-Dwarf: 5-7 ft. (Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping)","offer_id":45134027292738,"sku":null,"price":69.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/newtown-pippin-apple-on-tree.jpg?v=1789020679"},{"product_id":"red-gravenstein-apple","title":"Red Gravenstein Apple","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col grow\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"db11016e-0304-40a3-991b-043f3aab6699\" dir=\"auto\" class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal [.text-message+\u0026amp;]:mt-1\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-5-2\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[1px]\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"markdown prose dark:prose-invert w-full break-words dark markdown-new-styling\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"14\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"15\" data-end=\"202\"\u003eRed Gravenstein is a red-skinned sport of the classic Gravenstein apple, prized for its bold, aromatic flavor and versatility while offering a more colorful, attractive fruit on the tree.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"204\" data-end=\"228\"\u003eOrigin and History\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"229\" data-end=\"589\"\u003eGravenstein originated in Denmark in the 1600s and became one of the most widely respected early apples in Europe and North America. Red Gravenstein is a naturally occurring sport selected for its deeper red coloration, while retaining the core eating and culinary qualities that made the original Gravenstein famous among orchardists, cooks, and cider makers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"591\" data-end=\"609\"\u003eFruit \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"610\" data-end=\"980\"\u003eFruit is medium to large with a rich red blush over a yellow-green background. The flesh is juicy, highly aromatic, and well-balanced, combining sweetness with a bright, refreshing acidity. Red Gravenstein excels for fresh eating when fully ripe but is especially outstanding for applesauce, baking, cooking, and cider, where its complex, spicy flavor really stands out.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"982\" data-end=\"1010\"\u003eGrowth Habit \u0026amp; Spacing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1011\" data-end=\"1310\"\u003eTrees are vigorous with an upright to spreading growth habit and can become fairly large if unmanaged. Spacing is typically 18–25 feet depending on rootstock and desired mature size. Regular pruning is recommended to manage vigor, maintain structure, and improve light penetration and fruit quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1312\" data-end=\"1329\"\u003ePollination\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1330\" data-end=\"1424\"\u003eRed Gravenstein is a triploid apple. This has important implications for orchard planning:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"1426\" data-end=\"1683\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1426\" data-end=\"1546\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1428\" data-end=\"1546\"\u003eAs a triploid, it produces little to no viable pollen, so it cannot effectively pollenize other apple trees.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1547\" data-end=\"1683\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1549\" data-end=\"1683\"\u003eFor good fruit set, Red Gravenstein performs best when two compatible diploid apple varieties with overlapping bloom are nearby.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1685\" data-end=\"1750\"\u003eIf someone plants only Red Gravenstein and one other apple:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"1751\" data-end=\"2140\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1751\" data-end=\"1939\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1753\" data-end=\"1939\"\u003eThe other apple may help pollenize Red Gravenstein if bloom overlaps, but fruit set can be inconsistent or light because Gravenstein ideally wants pollen from more than one source.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1940\" data-end=\"2140\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1942\" data-end=\"2140\"\u003eRed Gravenstein will not pollenize that second tree, so the companion apple may also crop poorly unless there is another apple or crabapple in the area (a neighbor’s tree, wild crabapple, etc.).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2142\" data-end=\"2440\"\u003eGood pollination partners from what we commonly offer include long- and mid-bloom apples and crabapples such as Chestnut Applecrab, McIntosh, Honeycrisp, Haralson, Frostbite, or KinderKrisp. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2142\" data-end=\"2440\"\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2463\" data-end=\"3060\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003eGravenstein is generally considered hardy to about zone 4, but real-world observations suggest it can tolerate colder events under favorable conditions, so it is likely even a zone 3b apple. Notably, a Gravenstein (the original type, not specifically this red sport) survived approximately -33°F at Benson’s Farm in Missoula back in the 1980s, and is still growing happily today. While it’s unclear whether that event caused any winter injury at the time, the tree today looks excellent, suggesting strong long-term resilience once established. As with many older apple varieties, site selection and microclimate play a major role in success in very cold regions. Given that we're unsure as to the lower limits of cold that Red Graventein can withstand, we would not recommend it for most of Eastern Montana (apart perhaps from Billings and some of the warmer surrounding areas). Red Gravenstein should work in Kalispell, much of the Flathead and Mission Valleys, Plains and the stretch along the Clark Fork towards Idaho, and warmer microclimates\/on a bench with good airflow in the Bitterroot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"z-0 flex min-h-[46px] justify-start\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eImage courtesy of Wikimedia user \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/User:Jarvin\"\u003eJarvin\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"G935 Dwarf: 4-5 ft. (1 yr. older)","offer_id":42503737278530,"sku":null,"price":99.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"G935 Dwarf: 5-6 ft. (1 yr. older) Pruned to 5 ft. for shipping","offer_id":42503737311298,"sku":null,"price":119.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/red-gravenstein-apple-fruit.png?v=1789020871"},{"product_id":"tolman-sweet-apple","title":"Tolman Sweet Apple","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eNew Variety. Description Coming Soon!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:12px;color:#777;margin-top:24px\"\u003eImage credit: watercolor of the ‘Tolman Sweet’ apple by Amanda Newton, USDA Pomological Watercolor Collection, via \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Pomological_Watercolor_POM00003500.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/a\u003e — public domain.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Bud 118 Semi-Dwarf: 4-6 ft. (Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping)","offer_id":45156178395202,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/tolman-sweet-apple-watercolor.jpg?v=1789021991"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.montanafruittrees.com\/collections\/best-apples-for-cooking.oembed","provider":"Montana Fruit Trees","version":"1.0","type":"link"}