{"title":"Best Apples for Hard Cider","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe 14 varieties in our catalog that scored 8 or higher out of 10 for hard cider. Scored on sugar, acid and tannin, and on what the variety brings to a blend or a single-variety cider.\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":"franklin-cider-apple","title":"Franklin Cider Apple","description":"\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOverview\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eApparently immune to cedar apple rust, scab, and potentially fireblight, Franklin is a vigorous, precocious, and a reliably annual bearing apple that is excellent for cider but almost equally as impressive as a fresh eating apple.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFruit Description\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFranklin produces a small-medium, heavily russeted apple over a greenish background with some blushing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCider Qualities\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYielding a juice high in both sugar (17.5–19 Brix) and decent amounts of tannins, Franklin is crisp fresh eating and produces a bittersharp juice that holds its own as a varietal cider. Bust out the cider press and start experimenting by blending other zone 3 fruits in with a Franklin cider. We’ve experimented with the like of adding nanking cherries and it’s delicious!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCan be grown in much of Montana, perhaps except the coldest places east of the divide that can see sub -50F temps.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePollination\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlant with any of our cider apples for pollination.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Bud 118 Semi-Dwarf: 4-6 ft. (Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping)","offer_id":45125879005250,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/franklin-cider-apple-on-tree.webp?v=1789020066"},{"product_id":"frostbite-apple","title":"Frostbite Apple","description":"\u003ch3\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrostbite Apple is a cold-hardy dessert apple developed by the University of Minnesota as part of its northern apple breeding program. It was released in the early 21st century and bred specifically to withstand harsh winters while still delivering high fruit quality, drawing on hardy Malus genetics adapted to extreme cold.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFruit Quality \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrostbite produces small to medium-sized apples with dark red skin and exceptionally sweet, intense flavor.  When Luke tried this on Bob Purvis' farm in 2022, he was taken aback by the unique, tropical punch flavor. The flesh is firm and crisp. Apparently can be used in specialty cider, where its high sugar content adds richness and complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrostbite is among the most cold-hardy apples available and is generally rated hardy to at least −40°F, making it suitable for Zone 3 and possibly colder microclimates. It was specifically selected to survive severe northern winters while maintaining reliable productivity and fruit quality. That said, almost none of the University of Minnesota apples survive and do well for Ed Schultz in Gallatin Gateway, where Ed sees -47F regularly, and these Minnesota apples don't shut down in time for the Fall cold there. Therefore, Frostbite has seen damage at those temps but fortunately the damage has mainly been on its limbs, and not penetrated into the trunk.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Dolgo Full Size: 3-5 ft. (One Year Older)","offer_id":45125952733250,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Dolgo Full Size: 4-6 ft. (One Year Older) Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping","offer_id":42499083108418,"sku":null,"price":74.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Dolgo Full Size: 6-7 ft. (One Year Older) Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping","offer_id":45125952766018,"sku":null,"price":94.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/frostbite-apple-in-hand.jpg?v=1789020066"},{"product_id":"golden-harvey-apple","title":"Golden Harvey Apple","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"232\"\u003eThis is the first year we have grown Golden Harvey, 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=\"234\" data-end=\"248\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"249\" data-end=\"720\"\u003eGolden Harvey, also historically known as Brandy Apple, is one of the classic old English apples and is generally dated to at least the 1600s. From the research we have done in creating this description, its exact lineage is not documented, but it is repeatedly described in historical pomology as a highly esteemed apple for both dessert use and cider. It was especially valued in western England, where it earned a reputation for exceptional richness and sugar content. However, it fell out of favor due to its small size.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"722\" data-end=\"748\"\u003eFruit Quality \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"749\" data-end=\"1272\"\u003eGolden Harvey produces small to medium-sized fruit, often with heavy russeting and a golden background. The flavor is described as intensely rich, sweet, and complex, improving with storage rather than being best straight off the tree. Historically, it was considered one of the finest winter dessert apples. It is also well known as a cider apple, with high sugar levels that earned it the name Brandy Apple, as it was capable of producing notably strong cider in favorable years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1274\" data-end=\"1294\"\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1295\" data-end=\"1761\"\u003eBased on available descriptions and modern cultivar listings, Golden Harvey is generally regarded as hardy in the approximate zone 4 range. This corresponds to winter survival into roughly the −30°F range under favorable conditions, with performance depending heavily on rootstock, site selection, fall acclimation, and wind exposure. Our Spring 2027 trees are one year older and grafted onto Bud 118, which has decent drought tolerance. Applied to Montana, it appears best suited to milder locations or well-protected sites within the warmest valleys of western MT. These are: Blackfoot, Bitterroot, Clark Fork, Flathead, Jocko, Lower Kootenai, Mission, Missoula, and Upper Flathead \/ North Fork.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1763\" data-end=\"1798\"\u003eOther Notable Characteristics\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1799\" data-end=\"2200\"\u003eFrom the literature, Golden Harvey is repeatedly noted for excellent keeping quality, with fruit often stored well into late winter or spring. It also holds historical importance in traditional English cider culture, particularly in Herefordshire. Disease resistance is not generally cited as exceptional, so thoughtful siting and management would be important in regions with higher disease pressure.\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":42499171057730,"sku":null,"price":89.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/golden-harvey-apple-fruit-cut.png?v=1789020103"},{"product_id":"golden-russet-apple","title":"Golden Russet Apple","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis is one of the newer apples we have begun growing, and while our long-term experience in Montana is still developing, both historical accounts and early local observations point to Golden Russet as an exceptional and resilient apple.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGolden Russet is a historic American apple with a long lineage in the United States, documented as early as the early 1800s. William Coxe described it in 1817 as one of the finest apples in New Jersey in the autumn and early winter months. A.J. Downing, writing in his 1845 edition of \u003cem\u003eFruit Trees of America\u003c\/em\u003e, praised it as one of the most delicious and tender apples, noting that its flesh resembles the buttery texture of a pear more than that of an ordinary apple. Though neither large nor visually striking, it became widely cultivated in New England and the western states due to its productivity and exceptional flavor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFruit Quality \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGolden Russet produces medium-sized, fully russeted fruit with dense, crisp flesh and very high sugar content. The flavor is rich, sweet, and complex, often described as honeyed or nutty. It is truly an all-purpose apple, well suited for fresh eating, culinary use, cider, jelly, juice, pies, sauce, and drying. It is also one of the best keeping apples, commonly storing for up to five months, and often remaining excellent in flavor even after the skin has begun to shrivel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGolden Russet has weathered intense cold snaps in the Bitterroot Valley without showing signs of winter injury. Trees in this area experienced mid-winter lows approaching −40°F on January 12, 2024 and came through without apparent damage. While Golden Russet is often listed more conservatively in terms of hardiness, these observations suggest it is hardy to roughly −40°F, although any colder than that would be experimental. It is a solid zone 3 apple, although growers in the coldest places should look to the many other cold hardy apples we offer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOther Notable Characteristics\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGolden Russet has long been prized for its productivity and storage ability, as well as its value in cider making, where its high sugar levels produce rich, full-bodied cider. While it is one of the newer apples we have grown locally, its historical reputation and early performance in Montana, particularly the more mild Western part of the state, suggest it has potential as a fairly cold-hardy, high-quality apple for northern growers. However, it would not be in the top class of hardy apples.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePhoto by George Gruenfeld\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Bud 118 Semi-Dwarf: 3-4 ft.","offer_id":45125959680066,"sku":null,"price":44.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bud 118 Semi-Dwarf: 4-6 ft. (Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping)","offer_id":42499178266690,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/golden-russet-apple-fruit.jpg?v=1789020103"},{"product_id":"nailbiter-apple","title":"Nailbiter Apple","description":"\u003cp\u003eDescription coming soon!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42482852855874,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}]},{"product_id":"otterson-apple","title":"Otterson Crabapple","description":"\u003ch3 dir=\"ltr\" style=\"line-height: 1.38; margin-top: 14pt; margin-bottom: 4pt;\" id=\"docs-internal-guid-cc095853-7fff-476d-cd39-356974f6484e\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 13pt; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" style=\"line-height: 1.38; margin-top: 12pt; margin-bottom: 12pt;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eOtterson is a red-fleshed crabapple or cider crab valued for intensely red, astringent juice and strong ornamental appeal.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 dir=\"ltr\" style=\"line-height: 1.38; margin-top: 14pt; margin-bottom: 4pt;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 13pt; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Parentage\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" style=\"line-height: 1.38; margin-top: 12pt; margin-bottom: 12pt;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eIts background is described in cider-focused sources as being selected for deep red juice and vigor. According to Pomiferous: \"Long considered an open-pollinated seedling of \u003ca class=\"standard apple-link\" href=\"https:\/\/pomiferous.com\/applebyname\/rf-niedzwetzkyanas-apple-id-7913\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e RF: Niedzwetzkyana's Apple\u003c\/a\u003e. The pollen parent is now pegged as\u003ca class=\"standard apple-link\" href=\"https:\/\/pomiferous.com\/applebyname\/fameuse-id-2662\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e Fameuse \u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 dir=\"ltr\" style=\"line-height: 1.38; margin-top: 14pt; margin-bottom: 4pt;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 13pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eFruit Quality \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" style=\"line-height: 1.38; margin-top: 12pt; margin-bottom: 12pt;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003ePrimarily a cider and blending crab: high color, notable astringency, and best when blended with other juices.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 dir=\"ltr\" style=\"line-height: 1.38; margin-top: 14pt; margin-bottom: 4pt;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 13pt; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eGrowth Habit \u0026amp; Spacing\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" style=\"line-height: 1.38; margin-top: 12pt; margin-bottom: 12pt;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eOften described as vigorous. Treat like an apple or crabapple for spacing: commonly 12–16 ft on semi-dwarf, wider on standard roots.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 dir=\"ltr\" style=\"line-height: 1.38; margin-top: 14pt; margin-bottom: 4pt;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 13pt; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003ePollination\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" style=\"line-height: 1.38; margin-top: 12pt; margin-bottom: 12pt;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eLike most Malus, it’s not reliably self-fertile and benefits from another apple or crabapple nearby. It also serves as an excellent pollenizer for many apples if bloom overlaps.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 dir=\"ltr\" style=\"line-height: 1.38; margin-top: 14pt; margin-bottom: 4pt;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 13pt; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" style=\"line-height: 1.38; margin-top: 12pt; margin-bottom: 12pt;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eCommonly sold around the Zone 4 class, if it is anything like its parents, we would suspect is to be hardy in zone 3, but not much if any below -40F.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eImage: Resolution enhanced from a public domain image. The crabapple 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)","offer_id":42503198015554,"sku":null,"price":89.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/otterson-crabapple-fruit-cut.jpg?v=1789020680"},{"product_id":"roxbury-russett-apple","title":"Roxbury Russet Apple","description":"\u003ch3\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNote: \u003cem\u003eThis is a new variety for us, so the information below is based on historical pomological sources and grower reports rather than our own long-term, first-hand experience.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRoxbury Russet is widely regarded as the oldest named apple cultivar in North America, long valued for its durability, storability, and distinctive russeted fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOrigin and History\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRoxbury Russet originated in Massachusetts and is documented in cultivation by the mid-1600s, making it a foundational apple of early colonial orchards. It was grown extensively throughout New England for centuries, not because it was flashy or early, but because it reliably produced fruit that could be stored and eaten deep into winter. Its longevity in American orchards speaks to both its resilience and its practical value in a pre-refrigeration world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFruit \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe fruit is medium-sized with heavy, rough russeting over greenish-gold skin. Flesh is firm, dense, and mildly sweet with a nutty, earthy, almost pear-like flavor that develops and improves noticeably after storage. Roxbury Russet has historically been prized as a winter keeper, excelling for fresh eating after a period of storage, as well as for baking and cider. It is not typically an apple meant for immediate eating at harvest, but rather one that rewards patience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowth Habit \u0026amp; Spacing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTrees are typically vigorous, long-lived, and spreading, especially on standard rootstocks. Like many very old cultivars, Roxbury Russet can be slower to come into bearing compared to modern apples, but it compensates with durability and longevity. Spacing on Dolgo rootstock (what we currently offer) is in the 18-20 ft. range. Tighter spacing could be applied for a more intensive pruning regiment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePollination\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRoxbury Russet is not self-fertile and requires a compatible apple pollenizer with overlapping bloom. As a diploid apple, it both requires and provides viable pollen and fits well into mixed plantings with other mid-season blooming apples. Examples of what could cross with Roxbury Russet includes the following: 9-22 End, Alexander, Arkansas Black, Ashmead’s Kernel, Blue Pearmain, Brown Snout, Cortland, Crimson Beauty, Empire, Freedom, Frostbite, KinderKrisp, McIntosh, MN 1628, Northern Spy, Paula Red, Pristine, Spartan, Chestnut, Centennial, Martha, Rescue, Trailman\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCommonly reported as a zone 4 apple, there are anecdotal online claims of survival to colder temperatures, sometimes as low as the -40°F range, but we have not confirmed this. For now, until we have more experience with it, we are listing it as hardy to -30F, and therefore for Montana growers, should just be grown in the warmest valleys of western MT. These are: Blackfoot, Bitterroot, Clark Fork, Flathead, Jocko, Lower Kootenai, Mission, Missoula, and Upper Flathead \/ North Fork. For Eastern MT, could possibly work in Billings and the surrounding warmer microclimates.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Dolgo Full Size: 5-7 ft. (One Year Older) Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping","offer_id":42504523776066,"sku":null,"price":89.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/roxbury-russet-apple-harvest.jpg?v=1789021037"},{"product_id":"yates-apple","title":"Yates Apple","description":"\u003cp\u003eDescription coming soon!\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":42511541239874,"sku":null,"price":74.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/yates-apple-fruit.jpg?v=1789021379"},{"product_id":"wickson-crabapple","title":"Wickson Crabapple","description":"\u003ch3 data-start=\"3171\" data-end=\"3185\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3186\" data-end=\"3500\"\u003eWickson Crabapple is a high-sugar, high-acid Malus fruit prized for intense flavor and for adding structure to cider blends. It’s widely used as a “booster” fruit because it can raise both perceived brightness and fermentable sugars in blends, and it’s also valued for kitchen. Our friends at Western Cider in Missoula have brewed a killer Wickson varietal cider, and often use it in their blends to offer flavor complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"3502\" data-end=\"3570\"\u003eOrigin \u0026amp; History\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3571\" data-end=\"4077\"\u003eWickson is an Albert Etter introduction from Humboldt County, California, generally reported as introduced in 1944 and named in honor of E. J. Wickson, a prominent California horticultural figure. Its parentage is commonly repeated as Newtown Pippin and Esopus Spitzenburg, but the historical paperwork is described as confusing\/unclear in multiple sources; the safest accurate phrasing is that it is often cited as a Newtown Pippin × Esopus Spitzenburg-type cross, with parentage not perfectly documented.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"4079\" data-end=\"4097\"\u003eFruit \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4098\" data-end=\"4522\"\u003eThe fruit is small (crabapple-sized to “large crab” sized depending on grower and climate) and is known for unusually high sugar paired with strong acidity. That combination makes it especially valuable for hard cider and juice blending, and it is also commonly used where high pectin is beneficial (jellies\/jams). In terms of the flavor for fresh eating, here are unedited taste notes from Luke when he tried the fruit fresh on 10\/2\/25 on Missoula, MT:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4098\" data-end=\"4522\"\u003e\"Intense. Delicious and very bright and fruity. Slight citrus, melon, hints of raspberry and strawberry. Tangy with some nice sweetness. Mild astringency about 15 seconds after eating.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4098\" data-end=\"4522\"\u003eThe fruit ripens in Missoula end of Sept.\/Early Oct. so it is fairly late for us in Missoula. Likely would not ripen in time in shorter growing season, such as parts of Alaska, even if it did survive into the -40Fs (we're not sure if it can, see 'Cold Hardiness' below).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"4524\" data-end=\"4542\"\u003eGrowth Habit\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4543\" data-end=\"4782\"\u003eWickson is vigorous and productive, with abundant bloom and strong annual bearing in nursery descriptions. It is also  a good pollenizer for other apples\/crabapples because of heavy bloom and viable pollen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"4784\" data-end=\"4797\"\u003eSpacing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4798\" data-end=\"5238\"\u003eWe offer Wickson on Bud 118 semi-dwarf. Bud 118 is a vigorous, cold-hardy semi-dwarf rootstock which is noted as semi-standard in the literature, but our experience growing it in Montana is that it is more so a semi-dwarf. Perhaps in warmer climate\/longer growing season\/deeper and less dry\/alkaline soils that it would behave more as a semi-standard. Aim for 15 ft. in MT and perhaps further apart in better growing conditions\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"5240\" data-end=\"5257\"\u003ePollination\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5258\" data-end=\"5931\"\u003eLike most Malus species, Wickson is not self-fertile and needs a pollenizer. It is diploid and fertile, and examples of pollenizers for Wickson that we offer include: Centennial, Hewe's Virginia, Honeycrisp, Liberty, Newtown Pippin, William's Pride, Zestar!, Snowsweet, Spartan, and Wolf River\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"5933\" data-end=\"5953\"\u003eCold hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5954\" data-end=\"6332\"\u003eWickson is commonly listed as a Zone 3. In our experience in Montana, Wickson withstood -38°F in Corvallis, MT from a 1\/13\/24 polar front, without any winter injury. Whether Wickson can withstand temperatures lower than this is likely, but how much lower we do not know. In order to be conservative, we are listing Wickson as a solid zone 3a.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"6334\" data-end=\"6351\"\u003eOther Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"6352\" data-end=\"6848\"\u003eWickson has a long-running “identity confusion” history in fruit circles (it has been mis-sold under other names in some contexts), so sourcing true-to-type material matters if someone is collecting it for cider work. On disease: sources describe it as very slightly susceptible to fire blight, scab, and cedar-apple rust (not a “disease-resistant” crabapple), so good airflow, balanced fertility, and standard sanitation practices are the right management frame rather than promising resistance.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Bud 118 Semi-Dwarf: 2-4 ft.","offer_id":42511537799234,"sku":null,"price":39.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Bud 118 Semi-Dwarf: 4-5 ft. bud grafts on one year older rootstock","offer_id":42511199633474,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/wickson-crabapple-on-tree.jpg?v=1789021327"},{"product_id":"hewes-virginia-crabapple","title":"Hewe's Virginia Crabapple","description":"\u003ch3\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHewe’s Virginia Crab (also called Virginia Crab and often listed under Hughes\/Hugh’s as a synonym) is one of the best-known historic American cider crabs from Virginia, documented in the colonial era and strongly associated with early American cidermaking. \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/southerngardenhistory.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/12\/SouthernPlantLists.pdf?\"\u003eIt appears in 18th-century Southern nursery listings (mid-1700s),\u003c\/a\u003e and it was \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.monticello.org\/house-gardens\/in-bloom-at-monticello\/hewe-s-crab-apple\/\"\u003efamously grown at Monticello by Thomas Jefferson\u003c\/a\u003e as a cider apple.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eParentage is not conclusively documented. In pomological and museum\/historic-orchard references it is commonly described as either a chance seedling of, or a hybrid involving, the native Southern crabapple (Malus angustifolia) and a European domesticated apple type—but this should be treated as an informed hypothesis rather than proven pedigree.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFlavor \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHewe’s is historically prized for cider: small fruit, high juice value for its size, and a profile that can contribute structure (acid\/tannin) and aromatic lift to blends—while also being one of the rare crabs frequently cited as capable of standing alone as a varietal cider.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Missoula, MT, our friend Michael Billington of Western Cider has used Hewe’s in several blends and also as a standout varietal dry cider. Luke tasted the fruit fresh at peak ripeness in fall 2025 and noted: somewhat thick skin; starts sweet then turns tart quickly; not super complex; slight chalkiness (not overbearing).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom the broader references we reviewed while creating this description, Hewe’s is consistently described as unusually hardy for a cider apple, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.cumminsnursery.com\/buy-trees\/product-detail.php?id=28753\u0026amp;type=scion\u0026amp;\"\u003eincluding historical notes \u003c\/a\u003ethat it was once used as a rootstock far into northern regions, implying strong winter durability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHardiness ratings do vary by source (some list it around Zone 4, others as cold as Zone 3), which is a reminder that “zone ratings” are not the same as a verified single-temperature kill threshold.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat said, Western Ag Resarch Center's field observation noted that Hewe’s Virginia Crab survived −38°F on the morning of January 12, 2024 with very minor tip damage (if any). That performance supports treating it as a legitimately cold-climate cider crab for Montana, and it helps explain why Zach and Katrina at the Western Ag Research Center in Corvallis, MT had \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ciderassociation.org\/2022-apple-crop-outlook\/\"\u003edescribed\u003c\/a\u003e it among the cold-harder cultivars in station-orchard contexts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowth Habit\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHewe’s is generally described as vigorous and productive, and it’s widely noted as an excellent pollenizer (crabapples in general, and Hewe’s specifically, are often planted partly for pollination support in mixed orchards).\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":42499221061698,"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":45133048021058,"sku":null,"price":89.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/hewes-virginia-crabapple-in-hand.jpg?v=1789020135"},{"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":"hidden-rose-apple","title":"Hidden Rose Apple","description":"\u003ch3 data-start=\"314\" data-end=\"328\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"329\" data-end=\"769\"\u003eHidden Rose is a red-fleshed apple that originated as a chance seedling in the Airlie area of Oregon’s Willamette Valley in the mid-1900s (commonly referenced as discovered in the 1960s). Parentage is not documented. It has been circulated under multiple names, including Airlie Red Flesh, Mountain Rose, and Newell-Kimzey, with “Hidden Rose” becoming the best-known market name.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"771\" data-end=\"797\"\u003eFruit Quality \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"798\" data-end=\"1150\"\u003eHidden Rose is best known for its striking pink-to-red interior flesh, which makes it especially attractive for fresh slices, salads, and visual culinary uses. Its eating quality tends to land in the “good, crisp, tart-leaning” category.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1152\" data-end=\"1589\"\u003eWe obtained cuttings for grafting these originally from Rod McIver, and the guy he got his cuttings from said: \"Hidden Rose apple is not anyone's favorite apple but everyone agrees it’s a good apple\". Rod argued that it is \"like a Granny Smith that has flavor, and a quality Granny Smith.\" Luke thought the flavor was certainly good when he tried it for the first time on October 19th, 2023 at Rod’s. In general, it also has value for juice\/cider where color and acidity can be an asset, though it’s most famous as a fresh “novelty-plus-quality” apple.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1591\" data-end=\"1611\"\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1612\" data-end=\"2259\"\u003ePublished hardiness guidance for Hidden Rose is typically given as a zone range rather than a verified single “kills-at” temperature, and those zone ratings are often around the Zone 4 class in general references. What matters most for Montana, though, is direct local observation: Hidden Rose survived approximately −35°F unscathed at Rod McIver’s off Rose Crossing in Kalispell, Montana on January 13, 2024. That single event does not prove a universal lower limit for every site and rootstock combination, but it does support treating Hidden Rose as legitimately cold-tolerant in northwest Montana conditions when properly acclimated and sited. So we would list Hidden Rose as a solid zone 3b apple.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2261\" data-end=\"2296\"\u003eOther Notable Characteristics\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2297\" data-end=\"2594\"\u003eFirstly, Hidden Rose is an excellent keeper. The photo used was taken in the first week of March, 5 months after the apple was picked off the tree in Kalispell, and had not even shown any signs of breakdown by that point. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2297\" data-end=\"2594\"\u003eThat said, the red flesh is the headline trait, but the broader value is that it pairs that novelty with respectable crispness and a tart profile that many people recognize and enjoy. If you like Granny Smith but want more character (and dramatic color), Hidden Rose is often described as fitting that niche. Certainly much hardier than a Granny Smith.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"M26 Semi-Dwarf: 3-5 ft. (2 Years Older)","offer_id":43010503737410,"sku":null,"price":64.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/hidden-rose-apple-cut.jpg?v=1789020135"},{"product_id":"baldwin-apple","title":"Baldwin Apple","description":"\u003ch3 data-end=\"189\" data-start=\"170\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"572\" data-start=\"191\"\u003eBaldwin is a historic American apple celebrated for its rich, aromatic flavor—sweet, slightly spicy, and incredibly balanced. In the right climate, it produces beautiful deep-red fruit that excels in fresh eating, pies, and traditional New England-style cider. This variety was once one of the most widely grown apples in the U.S. for good reason: the fruit quality is outstanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"577\" data-start=\"574\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"614\" data-start=\"579\"\u003eHardiness \u0026amp; Site Suitability\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"776\" data-start=\"616\"\u003eBaldwin is \u003cstrong data-end=\"655\" data-start=\"627\"\u003enot a cold-hardy variety\u003c\/strong\u003e and struggles in northern climates. It is a\u003cstrong data-end=\"721\" data-start=\"700\"\u003e Zone 5 apple (if not zone 6)\u003c\/strong\u003e, and would likely only work in the absolute warmest microclimates in Montana (part of Missoula that are up and out of frost pooling areas). Our own trees experienced \u003cstrong data-end=\"960\" data-start=\"935\"\u003etrunk damage at –25°F\u003c\/strong\u003e, and that’s the reason we stopped growing and offering them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1125\" data-start=\"1023\"\u003eThese are the \u003cstrong data-end=\"1085\" data-start=\"1037\"\u003elast remaining trees from a couple years ago\u003c\/strong\u003e. Once gone, they will not be restocked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"1130\" data-start=\"1127\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"1152\" data-start=\"1132\"\u003eBearing Habit\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1380\" data-start=\"1154\"\u003eBaldwin is \u003cstrong data-end=\"1177\" data-start=\"1165\"\u003ebiennial\u003c\/strong\u003e, meaning it produces a heavy crop one year and very little the next. In colder or more stressful conditions, it can become \u003cstrong data-end=\"1314\" data-start=\"1301\"\u003etriennial\u003c\/strong\u003e, making it unreliable for growers who need consistent production.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"1385\" data-start=\"1382\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"1408\" data-start=\"1387\"\u003eFruit \u0026amp; Flavor\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1731\" data-start=\"1410\"\u003eWhen it does fruit, Baldwin delivers. The apples are medium to large with dense, juicy flesh and a high-aroma profile. The flavor is complex and memorable—excellent fresh, superb for baking, and historically one of the top cider apples in the Northeast. In the right climate, this is an exceptional-flavor heritage apple.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"1736\" data-start=\"1733\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"1788\" data-start=\"1738\"\u003ePollination \u0026amp; Compatible Varieties We Offer\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2021\" data-start=\"1790\"\u003eBaldwin is \u003cstrong data-end=\"1821\" data-start=\"1801\"\u003enot self-fertile\u003c\/strong\u003e, so it requires a compatible mid-season apple pollenizer. For customers in climates where Baldwin \u003cem data-end=\"1924\" data-start=\"1920\"\u003eis\u003c\/em\u003e suitable (Zone 5B–6), we offer several excellent mid-season bloom partners:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-end=\"2062\" data-start=\"2023\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2062\" data-start=\"2027\"\u003eCompatible Pollenizers We Offer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul data-end=\"2470\" data-start=\"2063\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2131\" data-start=\"2063\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2131\" data-start=\"2065\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2077\" data-start=\"2065\"\u003eMcIntosh\u003c\/strong\u003e – Classic mid-season pollenizer; highly compatible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2199\" data-start=\"2132\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2199\" data-start=\"2134\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2148\" data-start=\"2134\"\u003eHoneycrisp\u003c\/strong\u003e – Overlaps well in bloom; strong pollen partner.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2272\" data-start=\"2200\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2272\" data-start=\"2202\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2224\" data-start=\"2202\"\u003eChestnut Crabapple\u003c\/strong\u003e – Reliable pollenizer with long bloom window.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2339\" data-start=\"2273\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2339\" data-start=\"2275\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2287\" data-start=\"2275\"\u003eHaralson\u003c\/strong\u003e – Another solid mid-season apple that pairs well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2402\" data-start=\"2340\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2402\" data-start=\"2342\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2355\" data-start=\"2342\"\u003eFrostbite\u003c\/strong\u003e – Good overlap and strong pollination vigor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2470\" data-start=\"2403\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2470\" data-start=\"2405\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2420\" data-start=\"2405\"\u003eKinderKrisp\u003c\/strong\u003e – Early-to-mid bloom but overlaps enough to work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2628\" data-start=\"2472\"\u003eAny \u003cstrong data-end=\"2496\" data-start=\"2476\"\u003emid-season apple\u003c\/strong\u003e in our catalog will pollenize Baldwin effectively, so growers in Zone 5B–6 have multiple suitable pairings from our current lineup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"2633\" data-start=\"2630\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"2653\" data-start=\"2635\"\u003eBottom Line\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2952\" data-start=\"2655\"\u003eBaldwin is a fantastic variety \u003cstrong data-end=\"2723\" data-start=\"2686\"\u003eif you live in the proper climate\u003c\/strong\u003e—a flavorful, historic apple with real character. But it is \u003cstrong data-end=\"2850\" data-start=\"2783\"\u003enot appropriate for the vast majority of Montana or any region with deep winter cold\u003c\/strong\u003e. For those in Zone 5B–6, it can still be an excellent addition when paired with the right pollenizer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eImage courtesy of: National Fruit Collection, \u003ca title=\"w:Brogdale\" class=\"extiw\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Brogdale\"\u003eBrogdale\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"6-7 ft.","offer_id":42498810609730,"sku":null,"price":119.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"7-8 ft","offer_id":42498810642498,"sku":null,"price":139.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/baldwin-apple-on-tree.jpg?v=1789019191"},{"product_id":"trail-crabapple","title":"Trail Crabapple","description":"\u003cp\u003eNew Variety. Description Coming Soon!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Malus baccata Full Size: 3-5 ft.","offer_id":45156179476546,"sku":null,"price":49.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/MontanaFruitTreeCoPhotoComingSoon_0d67a39c-ac9f-4376-bd6b-1449a2bb81d8.png?v=1788563872"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.montanafruittrees.com\/collections\/best-apples-for-hard-cider.oembed","provider":"Montana Fruit Trees","version":"1.0","type":"link"}