{"title":"Powdery Mildew Resistant Fruit Trees \u0026 Berries","description":"\u003cp\u003eFruit trees, berries and vines that hold up to powdery mildew. Unlike most leaf diseases, mildew doesn't need wet leaves to get going, so it shows up even in dry country like ours. Picking resistant varieties is the easiest way to stay ahead of it.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cdetails class=\"mft-more\"\u003e\u003csummary\u003eMore about powdery mildew\u003c\/summary\u003e\u003cp\u003eOn apples, mildew stunts new shoots and can russet the fruit. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/liberty-apple\"\u003eLiberty\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/williams-pride-apple\"\u003eWilliam's Pride\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/nova-easygro-apple\"\u003eNova Easygro\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/pristine\"\u003ePristine\u003c\/a\u003e resist it along with scab. For colder spots, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/wolf-river-apple\"\u003eWolf River\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/spartan-apple\"\u003eSpartan\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/lodi-apple\"\u003eLodi\u003c\/a\u003e are rated to zone 2b, and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/dolgo-crabapple-bundle-of-2\"\u003eDolgo\u003c\/a\u003e crabapple (zone 1b) and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/chestnut-crabapple\"\u003eChestnut\u003c\/a\u003e applecrab (zone 2) resist it too.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGooseberries are where mildew does the most damage, and every gooseberry we grow resists it: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/hinnomakired\"\u003eHinnomaki Red\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/captivator-gooseberry-bundle-of-2\"\u003eCaptivator\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/black-velvet-gooseberry-bundle-of-2\"\u003eBlack Velvet\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/jeanne-gooseberry-bundle-of-3\"\u003eJeanne\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/invicta-gooseberry\"\u003eInvicta\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/pixwell-gooseberry\"\u003ePixwell\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/jahns-prairie-gooseberry\"\u003eJahn's Prairie\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/titania-black-currant-bundle-of-2\"\u003eTitania\u003c\/a\u003e black currant and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/honeyberry-bundle-of-4\"\u003ehoneyberry\u003c\/a\u003e do well against it too.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor grapes, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/itasca-grape-bundle-of-2\"\u003eItasca\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/sabrevois-grape-bundle-of-2\"\u003eSabrevois\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/somerset-seedless-grape-bundle-of-2\"\u003eSomerset Seedless\u003c\/a\u003e are the ones to look at. Good airflow and a healthy soil food web still matter. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/disease-resistance\"\u003edisease resistance charts\u003c\/a\u003e break it all down plant by plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-faq\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuestions we get\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat gooseberries resist powdery mildew?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll of ours. Hinnomaki Red, Captivator, Black Velvet, Jeanne, Invicta, Pixwell and Jahn's Prairie all resist it and are hardy to zone 3.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhich apple trees resist powdery mildew?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLiberty, William's Pride, Nova Easygro, Pristine, Wolf River, Spartan, Lodi, Zestar and Arkansas Black, among others. Dolgo crabapple resists it too and takes zone 1b.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhy do I get powdery mildew in a dry climate?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePowdery mildew doesn't need rain or wet leaves to infect, just humidity and mild temperatures. That's why it's one of the few diseases that's a real problem out here.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/details\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"alexander-apple","title":"Alexander Apple (Spring 2027)","description":"\u003cstyle\u003e\n.mft-layout{--mft-line:#d9d5cc;--mft-soft:#e8e4dc}\n.mft-layout h3,.mft-layout h4{text-transform:none;letter-spacing:normal}\n.mft-layout .mft-facts{border:1px solid var(--mft-line);border-radius:12px;padding:1.5rem 1.75rem .5rem}\n.mft-layout .mft-facts\u003ep{margin:0 0 1.1rem}\n.mft-layout .mft-facts table{width:100%;border-collapse:collapse;margin:0;border:0}\n.mft-layout .mft-facts th,.mft-layout .mft-facts td{border:0;border-top:1px solid var(--mft-soft);padding:.85rem 0;vertical-align:top;text-align:left;background:none}\n.mft-layout .mft-facts th{width:9rem;padding-right:1.1rem;font-weight:700}\n.mft-layout .mft-story{margin-top:3.5rem}\n.mft-layout .mft-sec{padding:2.25rem 0;border-top:1px solid var(--mft-line)}\n.mft-layout .mft-sec:first-child{padding-top:0;border-top:0}\n.mft-layout .mft-sec:last-child{padding-bottom:0}\n.mft-layout .mft-sec h3{font-size:1.5rem;line-height:1.25;font-weight:500;margin:0 0 .75rem}\n.mft-layout .mft-sec\u003e:last-child{margin-bottom:0}\n.mft-layout .mft-faq{margin-top:3rem;border:1px solid var(--mft-line);border-radius:12px;padding:1.5rem 1.75rem .25rem}\n.mft-layout .mft-faq\u003eh3{font-size:1.625rem;line-height:1.25;font-weight:500;margin:0 0 1rem}\n.mft-layout .mft-q{border-top:1px solid var(--mft-soft)}\n.mft-layout .mft-q\u003esummary{list-style:none;cursor:pointer;display:flex;align-items:center;justify-content:space-between;gap:1rem;min-height:44px;padding:1rem .25rem}\n.mft-layout .mft-q\u003esummary::-webkit-details-marker{display:none}\n.mft-layout .mft-q\u003esummary h4{margin:0;font-size:1.0625rem;line-height:1.4;font-weight:700}\n.mft-layout .mft-q\u003esummary::after{content:\"\";flex:none;width:18px;height:18px;background:linear-gradient(currentColor,currentColor) center\/100% 1.5px no-repeat,linear-gradient(currentColor,currentColor) center\/1.5px 100% no-repeat;transition:transform .2s}\n.mft-layout .mft-q[open]\u003esummary::after{transform:rotate(45deg)}\n.mft-layout .mft-q\u003esummary:focus-visible{outline:2px solid #4a5f37;outline-offset:2px}\n.mft-layout .mft-a{padding:0 2.5rem 1rem .25rem}\n.mft-layout .mft-a p{margin:0}\n@media (max-width:600px){.mft-layout .mft-facts,.mft-layout .mft-faq{padding-left:1rem;padding-right:1rem}.mft-layout .mft-facts th{width:6.5rem}.mft-layout .mft-a{padding-right:.25rem}}\n\u003c\/style\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-layout\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-facts\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a glance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Alexander Apple is an apple tree rated hardy to zone 3 in our ratings (winters to -40°F), not self-fertile, so it needs a different variety nearby as a pollenizer (bloom group 4 of 7, mid for an apple or crabapple), and it ripens about Sep 7 to Sep 27 in Missoula (our Missoula estimate).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"mft-facts-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHardy to\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eZone 3 to 7. A bare number means the whole of zone 3, colder half included (winters to -40°F). Find your zone with our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/cold-hardiness-calculator\"\u003ecold hardiness calculator\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"mft-chill\"\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eChill hours\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout 1,000 hours (800 to 1,200). Our estimate. No published figure exists for this variety yet. Montana winters give it plenty. In milder climates, make sure your winters average at least this much. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003eCheck your chill hours\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#alexander-apple\"\u003esee our sources\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePollination\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNeeds Cross-Pollination. Bloom group 4 of 7 (mid), late spring here. Plant a different apple or crabapple variety that blooms in groups 3 to 5. It has good pollen, so it can also pollenize other apples blooming at the same time. Good partners we carry: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/otterson-apple\"\u003eOtterson Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/trail-crabapple\"\u003eTrail Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/burgundy-apple\"\u003eBurgundy Apple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/cortland\"\u003eCortland Apple\u003c\/a\u003e and 103 more. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/apple-pollination-map\"\u003eApple Pollination Map\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRipens\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout Sep 7 to Sep 27 in Missoula (a Missoula estimate from published sources). Real years swing about a week either way. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/ripening-map\"\u003eSee the date for your town\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRootstock and size\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBud 118: semi-dwarf in our dry Montana soils, semi-standard on paper, about 12 to 18 ft tall unpruned. Stands on its own, few suckers. Spy 227: full size. A Northern Spy selection. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/rootstocks\"\u003eOur rootstock guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGood for\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSauce and butter (7\/10), cooking and roasting (6\/10), canning and freezing (6\/10), jams and jellies (6\/10). Scores are our own 1 to 10 ratings; 8 and up makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDeer\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eA deer favorite. Fence it or cage it.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat you get\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBare root, 3-5 ft. Shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring, roots wrapped in moist sawdust. Guaranteed to bud out.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-story\"\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"mft-sec\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe Origins of ‘Alexander’\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Alexander’ likely originated in Ukraine sometime during the 1700s, where it was thought to have been known as Aporta. The name Alexander was later attributed to the apple in honor of Russia's Emperor Alexander I.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"mft-sec\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eArrival in America\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the early 1800s, as pioneers migrated to the colder, harsher regions of the western United States, many European cultivars and their American seedlings struggled to survive the extreme winters of Wisconsin, Minnesota, and northern New England.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRecognizing the need for more cold-hardy varieties, the Massachusetts Horticultural Society partnered with the London Horticultural Society to import four Russian cultivars:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e'Tetovsky'\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e'Red Astrachan'\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e'Duchess of Oldenburg'\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e'Alexander'\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese varieties have since spread across Montana. While 'Alexander' is found in lower numbers than 'Duchess', it can still be spotted from the Bitterroot and Flathead areas to valleys throughout Eastern Montana.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1906, the Montana State Board of Horticulture declared that ‘Alexander’ was a cultivar “successful in nearly every part of Montana.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"mft-sec\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFlavor and Usage\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Alexander’ is a large dessert apple and tastes great fresh off the tree. However, it does not store well and tends to become mealy quickly, making it better suited for sauce.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe apples produce a rich, lemony-flavored applesauce that’s both intense and pleasantly tangy. Though not widely known for it, ‘Alexander’ also has the potential to make a great cider—something we have yet to try ourselves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"mft-sec\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe rate ‘Alexander’ hardy to -40°F. Some reports have it surviving down to -50°F, but we're conservatively listing it at -40°F until we get more winter survival data from really cold areas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-faq\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuestions we get about Alexander Apple\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdetails class=\"mft-q\" open\u003e\u003csummary\u003e\u003ch4\u003eDoes Alexander Apple need a pollenizer?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003c\/summary\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"mft-a\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eYes. Alexander Apple needs pollen from a different variety that blooms at about the same time. Plant a different apple or crabapple variety that blooms in groups 3 to 5. It has good pollen, so it can also pollenize other apples blooming at the same time. Partners we carry include \u003ca href=\"\/products\/otterson-apple\"\u003eOtterson Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/trail-crabapple\"\u003eTrail Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/burgundy-apple\"\u003eBurgundy Apple\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/details\u003e\n\u003cdetails class=\"mft-q\"\u003e\u003csummary\u003e\u003ch4\u003eHow cold hardy is Alexander Apple?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003c\/summary\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"mft-a\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eWe rate Alexander Apple hardy to zone 3, which means winters down to about -40°F. Our ratings come from real winters at our two Montana sites and from trusted growers across the North, not from a catalog average.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/details\u003e\n\u003cdetails class=\"mft-q\"\u003e\u003csummary\u003e\u003ch4\u003eHow many chill hours does Alexander Apple need?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003c\/summary\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"mft-a\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAbout 1,000 hours of winter chill (we count hours at or below 45°F), likely somewhere between 800 and 1,200. Nobody has published a chill figure for it, so that's our estimate from its relatives and origin. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003echill hours guide\u003c\/a\u003e has a calculator for your winters, and our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#alexander-apple\"\u003eresearch page\u003c\/a\u003e lists the sources.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/details\u003e\n\u003cdetails class=\"mft-q\"\u003e\u003csummary\u003e\u003ch4\u003eWhen does Alexander Apple ripen?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003c\/summary\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"mft-a\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAbout Sep 7 to Sep 27 in Missoula, Montana (an estimate built from published sources and our climate). Warmer places run earlier and cooler places later; our ripening map converts the date to your town.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/details\u003e\n\u003cdetails class=\"mft-q\"\u003e\u003csummary\u003e\u003ch4\u003eHow big does Alexander Apple get?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003c\/summary\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"mft-a\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eWe graft Alexander Apple onto Bud 118 (semi-dwarf in our dry Montana soils, semi-standard on paper), which makes a tree roughly 12 to 18 ft tall if you never prune it. Some sizes are on Spy 227.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/details\u003e\n\u003cdetails class=\"mft-q\"\u003e\u003csummary\u003e\u003ch4\u003eWhat is Alexander Apple good for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003c\/summary\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"mft-a\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eOur top use scores for Alexander Apple are sauce and butter (7\/10), cooking and roasting (6\/10), canning and freezing (6\/10), jams and jellies (6\/10).\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/details\u003e\n\u003cdetails class=\"mft-q\"\u003e\u003csummary\u003e\u003ch4\u003eIs Alexander Apple disease resistant?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003c\/summary\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"mft-a\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor some diseases, yes. It's resistant to apple scab and powdery mildew. It's very prone to fire blight. Nobody has published solid data on it for cedar-apple rust yet, so we list that as unknown. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/apple-disease-resistance-chart#alexander-apple\"\u003eapple disease resistance chart\u003c\/a\u003e has every rating, the notes and the sources.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/details\u003e\n\u003cdetails class=\"mft-q\"\u003e\u003csummary\u003e\u003ch4\u003eWill deer eat Alexander Apple?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003c\/summary\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"mft-a\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eYes, deer love it. Protect Alexander Apple with a fence or a cage, especially while it is young.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/details\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Bud 118 Semi-Dwarf: 3-5 ft.","offer_id":42498751430722,"sku":null,"price":49.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Spy 227 Full Size: 3-5 ft. (One Year Older)","offer_id":45124728586306,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/alexander-apple-fruit.webp?v=1789019153"},{"product_id":"arkansas-black","title":"Arkansas Black Apple (Spring 2027)","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"mft-facts\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a glance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Arkansas Black Apple is an apple tree rated hardy to zone 3 in our ratings (winters to -40°F), and not self-fertile, so it needs a different variety nearby as a pollenizer (bloom group 5 of 7, mid-late for an apple or crabapple).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"mft-facts-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHardy to\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eZone 3 to 8. A bare number means the whole of zone 3, colder half included (winters to -40°F). Our trees came through -38°F in Corvallis, Montana in January 2024. Find your zone with our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/cold-hardiness-calculator\"\u003ecold hardiness calculator\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"mft-chill\"\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eChill hours\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout 600 hours (500 to 800). Well documented. Independent sources agree. Montana winters give it plenty. In milder climates, make sure your winters average at least this much. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003eCheck your chill hours\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#arkansas-black\"\u003esee our sources\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePollination\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNeeds Cross-Pollination. Bloom group 5 of 7 (mid-late), late spring here. Plant a different apple or crabapple variety that blooms in groups 4 to 6. Some sources call it a triploid, so don't count on it as the only pollenizer for another tree until that's settled. Good partners we carry: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/black-oxford-apple\"\u003eBlack Oxford Apple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/honeycrisp\"\u003eHoneycrisp Apple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/northern-spy-apple\"\u003eNorthern Spy Apple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/oriole-apple\"\u003eOriole Apple\u003c\/a\u003e and 71 more. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/apple-pollination-map\"\u003eApple Pollination Map\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRootstock and size\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBud 118: semi-dwarf in our dry Montana soils, semi-standard on paper, about 12 to 18 ft tall unpruned. Stands on its own, few suckers. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/rootstocks\"\u003eOur rootstock guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGood for\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWinter storage (9\/10), fresh eating (7\/10), pies and baking (7\/10), cooking and roasting (6\/10), juice and sweet cider (6\/10), hard cider (6\/10). Scores are our own 1 to 10 ratings; 8 and up makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDeer\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eA deer favorite. Fence it or cage it.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat you get\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBare root, 3-4 ft or 4-6 ft. Shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring, roots wrapped in moist sawdust. Guaranteed to bud out.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eArkansas Black: A Striking, Hardy Apple\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" class=\"\"\u003eArkansas Black produces a medium-sized fruit with dark red skin, so dark it’s nearly black. The flesh is firm, white, juicy, and crisp, offering a well-balanced, pleasant flavor. It’s excellent for fresh eating and also makes great juice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eStorage and Shelf Life\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" class=\"\"\u003eArkansas Black is a heavy-bearing, vigorous tree and a solid zone 3 for us. The apples are known for their excellent storage capabilities. In our experience, the apples retained their firmness 3–4 months after harvest, though they did lose some tartness over time. Despite that, they remained fairly sweet and very edible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eDisease Resistance\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" class=\"\"\u003eAnother strong point for Arkansas Black is its resistance to cedar-apple rust, along with some resistance to scab and fireblight, a big plus for growers in areas prone to these common apple diseases.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eCold Hardiness and Rootstock\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eArkansas Black is a solid zone 3 for us, and here is why. Our trees at Canyon View Nursery in Corvallis, Montana came through -38°F the night of January 12, 2024, when an arctic air mass poured south out of Canada into the Bitterroot. That kind of cold is the hardest test a tree gets. It moves in as a whole air mass on the wind, so there is no layer of warmer air overhead and slope and air drainage can't spare a tree the way they do on a still, clear night. Coming through that is why we moved it from 3b to a full zone 3.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" class=\"\"\u003eWe have grafted this onto B118 for Spring 2027\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" class=\"\"\u003eNote: Arkansas Black is not recommended for planting in Eastern Montana, Alaska, or any region where winter temperatures regularly drop below -40°F.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:12px;color:#777;margin-top:24px\"\u003ePhotos: “Arkansas black apple” by Calstanhope, via \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Arkansas_black_apple.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/a\u003e, licensed \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/4.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eCC BY-SA 4.0\u003c\/a\u003e; “Starr-160103-3379-Malus pumila-Arkansas Black fruit-Piiholo-Maui (26673327260)” by Forest and Kim Starr, via \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Starr-160103-3379-Malus_pumila-Arkansas_Black_fruit-Piiholo-Maui_(26673327260).jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/a\u003e, licensed \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/3.0\/us\/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eCC BY 3.0 us\u003c\/a\u003e; “Starr-160103-3382-Malus pumila-Arkansas Black fruit with bite-Piiholo-Maui (26946830615)” by Forest and Kim Starr, via \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Starr-160103-3382-Malus_pumila-Arkansas_Black_fruit_with_bite-Piiholo-Maui_(26946830615).jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/a\u003e, licensed \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/3.0\/us\/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eCC BY 3.0 us\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-faq\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuestions we get about Arkansas Black Apple\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes Arkansas Black Apple need a pollenizer?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Arkansas Black Apple needs pollen from a different variety that blooms at about the same time. Plant a different apple or crabapple variety that blooms in groups 4 to 6. Some sources call it a triploid, so don't count on it as the only pollenizer for another tree until that's settled. Partners we carry include \u003ca href=\"\/products\/black-oxford-apple\"\u003eBlack Oxford Apple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/honeycrisp\"\u003eHoneycrisp Apple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/northern-spy-apple\"\u003eNorthern Spy Apple\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow cold hardy is Arkansas Black Apple?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe rate Arkansas Black Apple hardy to zone 3, which means winters down to about -40°F. Our own trees came through -38°F in Corvallis, Montana in January 2024. Our ratings come from real winters at our two Montana sites and from trusted growers across the North, not from a catalog average.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow many chill hours does Arkansas Black Apple need?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout 600 hours of winter chill (we count hours at or below 45°F), likely somewhere between 500 and 800. That figure is well documented: independent sources agree. Listed at 500 to 600 chill hours, low for an apple, so it also suits milder winters. Montana winters cover it easily. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003echill hours guide\u003c\/a\u003e has a calculator for your winters, and our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#arkansas-black\"\u003eresearch page\u003c\/a\u003e lists the sources.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow big does Arkansas Black Apple get?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe graft Arkansas Black Apple onto Bud 118 (semi-dwarf in our dry Montana soils, semi-standard on paper), which makes a tree roughly 12 to 18 ft tall if you never prune it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat is Arkansas Black Apple good for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur top use scores for Arkansas Black Apple are winter storage (9\/10), fresh eating (7\/10), pies and baking (7\/10), cooking and roasting (6\/10). Anything scored 8 or higher makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWill deer eat Arkansas Black Apple?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, deer love it. Protect Arkansas Black Apple with a fence or a cage, especially while it is young.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat arrives, and when does Arkansas Black Apple ship?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA dormant bare-root plant, roots wrapped in moist sawdust with a vapor barrier, shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring. Sizes offered: 3-4 ft or 4-6 ft. We guarantee our plants bud out. Stone fruits can be slow, so if one still has not budded out by August 15, write to us and we credit you for the following spring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Bud 118 Semi-Dwarf: 3-4 ft.","offer_id":45124758929474,"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":45124758962242,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/arkansas-black-apple.jpg?v=1791615010"},{"product_id":"black-velvet-gooseberry-bundle-of-2","title":"Black Velvet Gooseberry (Bundle of 2) | Spring 2027","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"mft-facts\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a glance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Black Velvet Gooseberry is a gooseberry shrub rated hardy to zone 3 from other growers' reports (winters to -40°F), and self-fertile, so one plant can crop.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"mft-facts-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHardy to\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eZone 3 to 7. A bare number means the whole of zone 3, colder half included (winters to -40°F). Find your zone with our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/cold-hardiness-calculator\"\u003ecold hardiness calculator\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"mft-chill\"\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eChill hours\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout 1,000 hours (700 to 2,000). Our estimate. No published figure exists for this variety yet. Montana winters give it plenty. In milder climates, make sure your winters average at least this much. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003eCheck your chill hours\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#black-velvet-gooseberry-bundle-of-2\"\u003esee our sources\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePollination\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSelf-Fertile. Bloom group 3 of 7 (early-mid), very early spring here. Black Velvet sets fruit on its own, so one plant will crop. A second gooseberry variety nearby can give larger fruit set. Bloom group is our estimate from the variety's origin and relatives. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/currant-gooseberry-pollination-chart\"\u003eCurrant \u0026amp; Gooseberry Pollination Chart\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGood for\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFresh eating (8\/10), pies and baking (7\/10), jams and jellies (7\/10), canning and freezing (6\/10). Scores are our 1 to 10 ratings, but we're still new to this one, so they lean on published descriptions and other growers rather than our own harvests. 8 and up makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDeer\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRarely bothered by deer.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat you get\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBare root, 1-2 ft. Shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring, roots wrapped in moist sawdust. Guaranteed to bud out.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eBlack Velvet is a hybrid of gooseberry and Worcesterberry, described as having medium, dark red, sweet, high-quality fruit with a superb, almost blueberry-like flavor. This is our first year growing it, so we don’t have our own cold hardiness data for Montana yet, and the zone 3 rating above comes from other growers’ reports.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003ePlant Size \u0026amp; Age\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eThese Black Velvet Gooseberries are the large grade and are currently in 1-gallon pots, but will be bare rooted for Spring 2027. They are 3 years old.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"border:1px solid #cfcfcf;border-left:4px solid #8a1c1c;background:#faf7f6;padding:14px 18px;margin-top:28px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0 0 10px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShipping restrictions: white pine blister rust quarantine\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0 0 10px;\"\u003eGooseberries and currants (\u003cem\u003eRibes\u003c\/em\u003e species) are alternate hosts for white pine blister rust. We \u003cstrong\u003ecannot ship this plant to New Hampshire or North Carolina\u003c\/strong\u003e, where its sale or importation is prohibited by state law. North Carolina prohibits all \u003cem\u003eRibes\u003c\/em\u003e statewide; New Hampshire permits only a short list of named rust-resistant cultivars, which does not include this variety.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0 0 10px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePermit or county-level restrictions also apply in:\u003c\/strong\u003e Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and West Virginia (prohibited in specific counties or townships) and Delaware, Michigan, and Rhode Island (state permit required). Please check your local rules before ordering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0;font-size:0.9em;color:#555;\"\u003eOrders placed to a prohibited state will be cancelled and refunded.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-faq\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuestions we get about Black Velvet Gooseberry\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes Black Velvet Gooseberry need a pollenizer?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. Black Velvet Gooseberry is self-fertile, so a single plant can set fruit. A second gooseberry variety nearby can give larger fruit set.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow cold hardy is Black Velvet Gooseberry?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe list Black Velvet Gooseberry at zone 3, which means winters down to about -40°F. We're still new to it, so that rating comes from other growers' reports rather than our own winters. We'll adjust it as our own plants go through more Montana winters.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow many chill hours does Black Velvet Gooseberry need?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout 1,000 hours of winter chill (we count hours at or below 45°F), likely somewhere between 700 and 2,000. Nobody has published a chill figure for it, so that's our estimate from its relatives and origin. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003echill hours guide\u003c\/a\u003e has a calculator for your winters, and our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#black-velvet-gooseberry-bundle-of-2\"\u003eresearch page\u003c\/a\u003e lists the sources.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat is Black Velvet Gooseberry good for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur top use scores for Black Velvet Gooseberry are fresh eating (8\/10), pies and baking (7\/10), jams and jellies (7\/10), canning and freezing (6\/10). Since we're still new to it, those scores lean on published descriptions and other growers rather than our own harvests. Anything scored 8 or higher makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWill deer eat Black Velvet Gooseberry?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRarely. Deer seldom bother Black Velvet Gooseberry, though a hungry winter deer will try almost anything.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat arrives, and when does Black Velvet Gooseberry ship?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTwo dormant bare-root plants, roots wrapped in moist sawdust with a vapor barrier, shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring. Sizes offered: 1-2 ft. We guarantee our plants bud out. Stone fruits can be slow, so if one still has not budded out by August 15, write to us and we credit you for the following spring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"1-2 ft.","offer_id":42498924314690,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/black-velvet-gooseberry-fruit.webp?v=1789019220"},{"product_id":"captivator-gooseberry-bundle-of-2","title":"Captivator Gooseberry (Bundle of 2) | Spring 2027","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"mft-facts\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a glance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Captivator Gooseberry is a gooseberry shrub rated hardy to zone 3 in our ratings (winters to -40°F), self-fertile, so one plant can crop, and it ripens about Jul 9 to Jul 19 in Missoula (our Missoula estimate).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"mft-facts-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHardy to\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eZone 3 to 7. A bare number means the whole of zone 3, colder half included (winters to -40°F). Find your zone with our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/cold-hardiness-calculator\"\u003ecold hardiness calculator\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"mft-chill\"\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eChill hours\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout 1,000 hours (800 to 2,000). Our estimate. No published figure exists for this variety yet. Montana winters give it plenty. In milder climates, make sure your winters average at least this much. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003eCheck your chill hours\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#captivator-gooseberry-bundle-of-2\"\u003esee our sources\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePollination\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSelf-Fertile. Bloom group 3 of 7 (early-mid), very early spring here. Captivator sets fruit on its own, so one plant will crop. A second gooseberry variety nearby can give larger fruit set. Bloom group is our estimate from the variety's origin and relatives. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/currant-gooseberry-pollination-chart\"\u003eCurrant \u0026amp; Gooseberry Pollination Chart\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRipens\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout Jul 9 to Jul 19 in Missoula (a Missoula estimate from published sources). Real years swing about a week either way. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/ripening-map\"\u003eSee the date for your town\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGood for\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFresh eating (8\/10), pies and baking (7\/10), jams and jellies (7\/10), canning and freezing (6\/10). Scores are our own 1 to 10 ratings; 8 and up makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDeer\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRarely bothered by deer.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat you get\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBare root. Shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring, roots wrapped in moist sawdust. Guaranteed to bud out.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"\u003eSimilar to \u003ca href=\"\/products\/hinnomakired\"\u003eHinnomaki Red\u003c\/a\u003e in terms of their pretty red berries, Captivator is slightly more tart than Hinnomaki Red. We’ve noticed that they are “jammier” than Hinnomaki, in that when you eat the berries, it’s like eating a berry of jam. It has a nice, unique flavor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"\u003eHardy to -40°F or more, Captivator is perfect for cold climates.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"\u003ePlant Size \u0026amp; Root Health\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"\u003eThese shrubs are 1–2 feet tall and have excellent root systems, with lots of fine root hairs to help them establish quickly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"border:1px solid #cfcfcf;border-left:4px solid #8a1c1c;background:#faf7f6;padding:14px 18px;margin-top:28px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0 0 10px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShipping restrictions: white pine blister rust quarantine\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0 0 10px;\"\u003eGooseberries and currants (\u003cem\u003eRibes\u003c\/em\u003e species) are alternate hosts for white pine blister rust. We \u003cstrong\u003ecannot ship this plant to North Carolina\u003c\/strong\u003e, which prohibits all \u003cem\u003eRibes\u003c\/em\u003e statewide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0 0 10px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePermit or county-level restrictions also apply in:\u003c\/strong\u003e New Hampshire, where ‘Captivator’ is on the state’s approved rust-resistant cultivar list but still requires a permit from the Division of Forests \u0026amp; Lands before planting; Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and West Virginia (prohibited in specific counties or townships); and Delaware, Michigan, and Rhode Island (state permit required). Please check your local rules before ordering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0;font-size:0.9em;color:#555;\"\u003eOrders placed to a prohibited state will be cancelled and refunded.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:12px;color:#777;margin-top:24px\"\u003ePhotos: “PI 556051 'Captivator' (Ribes uva-crispa), fruit photo rib0137.001.captivator.fruit1.2007” by USDA-ARS National Clonal Germplasm Repository, Corvallis, Oregon (GRIN-Global), via \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/npgsweb.ars-grin.gov\/gringlobal\/accessiondetail?id=1451023\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eUSDA GRIN\u003c\/a\u003e, public domain; “PI 556051 'Captivator' (Ribes uva-crispa), fruit photo rib0137.001.captivator.fruit2.2007” by USDA-ARS National Clonal Germplasm Repository, Corvallis, Oregon (GRIN-Global), via \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/npgsweb.ars-grin.gov\/gringlobal\/accessiondetail?id=1451023\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eUSDA GRIN\u003c\/a\u003e, public domain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-faq\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuestions we get about Captivator Gooseberry\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes Captivator Gooseberry need a pollenizer?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. Captivator Gooseberry is self-fertile, so a single tree can set fruit. Captivator sets fruit on its own, so one plant will crop. A second gooseberry variety nearby can give larger fruit set.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow cold hardy is Captivator Gooseberry?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe rate Captivator Gooseberry hardy to zone 3, which means winters down to about -40°F. Our ratings come from real winters at our two Montana sites and from trusted growers across the North, not from a catalog average.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow many chill hours does Captivator Gooseberry need?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout 1,000 hours of winter chill (we count hours at or below 45°F), likely somewhere between 800 and 2,000. Nobody has published a chill figure for it, so that's our estimate from its relatives and origin. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003echill hours guide\u003c\/a\u003e has a calculator for your winters, and our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#captivator-gooseberry-bundle-of-2\"\u003eresearch page\u003c\/a\u003e lists the sources.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhen does Captivator Gooseberry ripen?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout Jul 9 to Jul 19 in Missoula, Montana (an estimate built from published sources and our climate). Warmer places run earlier and cooler places later; our ripening map converts the date to your town.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat is Captivator Gooseberry good for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur top use scores for Captivator Gooseberry are fresh eating (8\/10), pies and baking (7\/10), jams and jellies (7\/10), canning and freezing (6\/10). Anything scored 8 or higher makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWill deer eat Captivator Gooseberry?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRarely. Deer seldom bother Captivator Gooseberry, though a hungry winter deer will try almost anything.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat arrives, and when does Captivator Gooseberry ship?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA dormant bare-root plant, roots wrapped in moist sawdust with a vapor barrier, shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring. We guarantee our plants bud out. Stone fruits can be slow, so if one still has not budded out by August 15, write to us and we credit you for the following spring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42472434696258,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/captivator-gooseberries-on-bush.jpg?v=1791615286"},{"product_id":"chestnut-crabapple","title":"Chestnut Applecrab (Spring 2027)","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"mft-facts\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a glance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Chestnut Applecrab is an applecrab tree rated hardy to zone 2 in our ratings (winters to -50°F), not self-fertile, so it needs a different variety nearby as a pollenizer (bloom group 2 of 7, early for an apple or crabapple), and it ripens about Aug 31 to Sep 10 in Missoula (picked and dated at our place in Missoula).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"mft-facts-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHardy to\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eZone 2 to 8. A bare number means the whole of zone 2, colder half included (winters to -50°F). Find your zone with our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/cold-hardiness-calculator\"\u003ecold hardiness calculator\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"mft-chill\"\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eChill hours\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout 750 hours (600 to 950). From published figures. Montana winters give it plenty. In milder climates, make sure your winters average at least this much. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003eCheck your chill hours\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#chestnut-crabapple\"\u003esee our sources\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePollination\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNeeds Cross-Pollination. Bloom group 2 of 7 (early), late spring here. Plant a different apple or crabapple variety that blooms in groups 1 to 3. It has good pollen, so it can also pollenize other apples blooming at the same time. Good partners we carry: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/dolgo-crabapple-bundle-of-2\"\u003eDolgo Crabapple (Bundle of 2)\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/crimson-beauty-apple\"\u003eCrimson Beauty Apple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/lodi-apple\"\u003eLodi Apple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/martha-applecrab\"\u003eMartha Applecrab\u003c\/a\u003e and 42 more. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/apple-pollination-map\"\u003eApple Pollination Map\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRipens\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout Aug 31 to Sep 10 in Missoula (picked and dated off our own trees). Real years swing about a week either way. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/ripening-map\"\u003eSee the date for your town\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRootstock and size\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eM26: dwarf to semi-dwarf, about 8 to 14 ft tall unpruned. Stake it the first few years. Bud 118: semi-dwarf in our dry Montana soils, semi-standard on paper, about 12 to 18 ft tall unpruned. Stands on its own, few suckers. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/rootstocks\"\u003eOur rootstock guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGood for\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFresh eating (9\/10), sauce and butter (7\/10), pollenizing other trees (7\/10), canning and freezing (6\/10), jams and jellies (6\/10). Scores are our own 1 to 10 ratings; 8 and up makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDeer\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eA deer favorite. Fence it or cage it.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat you get\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBare root, 3-5 ft or 4-6 ft. Shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring, roots wrapped in moist sawdust. Guaranteed to bud out.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChestnut, developed by the University of Minnesota, is technically an applecrab—50% apple and 50% crabapple.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe parentage of Chestnut is a cross between \u003ca href=\"\/products\/siberian-crabapple-bundle-of-2\"\u003eSiberian Crab\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/malinda-apple\"\u003eMalinda\u003c\/a\u003e, released by the University of Minnesota in 1946.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBut don’t let the “crabapple” part fool you. Hand this to someone who thinks crabapples are too tart or ornamental, and you’ll likely make a believer out of them.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eFlavor Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eOne of the sweetest applecrabs we’ve tried\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eIn Fall 2023 (Kalispell orchard), we noted hints of bubblegum\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eIn Fall 2024 (WARC field day), the flavor shifted to nutty, mellow, sweet, and less acidic. Super yummy!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eRipens 1–2 weeks before \u003ca href=\"\/products\/kerr-crab\"\u003eKerr\u003c\/a\u003e, making it a perfect complementary variety\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eWant something intense and tangy? Go with Kerr\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eWant something smooth, sweet, and nutty? Get Chestnut\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eRipening \u0026amp; Use\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eRipens early: 1st–2nd week of September in western Montana\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eGreat for fresh eating, but also works in sauces or ciders\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eStores decently for a crabapple\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eHardy to at least -50°F\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eIdeal for Zone 2 and possibly colder\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eEarly enough to ripen even in parts of Alaska\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eRootstock \u0026amp; Tree Info\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eFor Spring 2027, our Chestnut applecrabs are grafted onto Bud 118, hardy to -50 F or more, and M26, which is less hardy (to -40F) and a little less dwarfing. If buying Chestnut on M26 and you can experience sub -40F, then bury the graft.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-faq\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuestions we get about Chestnut Applecrab\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes Chestnut Applecrab need a pollenizer?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Chestnut Applecrab needs pollen from a different variety that blooms at about the same time. Plant a different apple or crabapple variety that blooms in groups 1 to 3. It has good pollen, so it can also pollenize other apples blooming at the same time. Partners we carry include \u003ca href=\"\/products\/dolgo-crabapple-bundle-of-2\"\u003eDolgo Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e (Bundle of 2), \u003ca href=\"\/products\/crimson-beauty-apple\"\u003eCrimson Beauty Apple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/lodi-apple\"\u003eLodi Apple\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow cold hardy is Chestnut Applecrab?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe rate Chestnut Applecrab hardy to zone 2, which means winters down to about -50°F. Our ratings come from real winters at our two Montana sites and from trusted growers across the North, not from a catalog average.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow many chill hours does Chestnut Applecrab need?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout 750 hours of winter chill (we count hours at or below 45°F), likely somewhere between 600 and 950. That comes from published figures for this variety. Blooms early, with Dolgo. Lab tests put it well below standard apples, about 750 hours. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003echill hours guide\u003c\/a\u003e has a calculator for your winters, and our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#chestnut-crabapple\"\u003eresearch page\u003c\/a\u003e lists the sources.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhen does Chestnut Applecrab ripen?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout Aug 31 to Sep 10 in Missoula, Montana (picked and dated off our own trees). Warmer places run earlier and cooler places later; our ripening map converts the date to your town.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow big does Chestnut Applecrab get?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe graft Chestnut Applecrab onto M26 (dwarf to semi-dwarf), which makes a tree roughly 8 to 14 ft tall if you never prune it. Some sizes are on Bud 118.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat is Chestnut Applecrab good for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur top use scores for Chestnut Applecrab are fresh eating (9\/10), sauce and butter (7\/10), pollenizing other trees (7\/10), canning and freezing (6\/10). Anything scored 8 or higher makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWill deer eat Chestnut Applecrab?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, deer love it. Protect Chestnut Applecrab with a fence or a cage, especially while it is young.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"M26 Semi-Dwarf: 3-5 ft. (One Year Older)","offer_id":42498963603522,"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":42498963701826,"sku":null,"price":74.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/chestnut-applecrab-harvest-in-hand.webp?v=1789019775"},{"product_id":"dolgo-crabapple-bundle-of-2","title":"Dolgo Crabapple (Bundle of 2) | Spring 2027","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"mft-facts\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a glance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Dolgo Crabapple is a crabapple tree rated hardy to zone 1b in our ratings, not self-fertile, so it needs a different variety nearby as a pollenizer (bloom group 2 of 7, early for an apple or crabapple), and it ripens about Aug 19 to Sep 1 in Missoula (our Missoula estimate).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"mft-facts-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHardy to\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eZone 1b to 9. The b means the warmer half of zone 1 only. Find your zone with our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/cold-hardiness-calculator\"\u003ecold hardiness calculator\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"mft-chill\"\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eChill hours\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout 500 hours (400 to 1,000). Published figures disagree, so treat this as a middle estimate. Montana winters give it plenty. In milder climates, make sure your winters average at least this much. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003eCheck your chill hours\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#dolgo-crabapple-bundle-of-2\"\u003esee our sources\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePollination\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNeeds Cross-Pollination. Bloom group 2 of 7 (early), late spring here. Plant a different apple or crabapple variety that blooms in groups 1 to 3. It has good pollen, so it can also pollenize other apples blooming at the same time. Good partners we carry: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/chestnut-crabapple\"\u003eChestnut Applecrab\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/crimson-beauty-apple\"\u003eCrimson Beauty Apple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/lodi-apple\"\u003eLodi Apple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/martha-applecrab\"\u003eMartha Applecrab\u003c\/a\u003e and 42 more. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/apple-pollination-map\"\u003eApple Pollination Map\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRipens\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout Aug 19 to Sep 1 in Missoula (estimated for Missoula from published sources). Real years swing about a week either way. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/ripening-map\"\u003eSee the date for your town\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGood for\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eJams and jellies (9\/10), ornamental value (8\/10), pollenizing other trees (8\/10), sauce and butter (7\/10), hard cider (7\/10), juice and sweet cider (6\/10). Scores are our own 1 to 10 ratings; 8 and up makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDeer\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eA deer favorite. Fence it or cage it.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat you get\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBare root, 2-3 ft. Shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring, roots wrapped in moist sawdust. Guaranteed to bud out.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProducing massive amounts of white flowers every Spring that will then turn to 1-inch crimson red crabapples, Dolgo is a must for many reasons.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eUses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhether it’s eating the good tasting crabapples (high acidity which I like), used for processing, or as a pollenizer or rootstock on which to top graft, Dolgo is a must for many reasons in the orchard.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDisease Resistance \u0026amp; Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd did I mention it's resistant to scab, fireblight, and cold hardy to zone 2. When some of our rootstocks such as some in the Geneva or Emla series had suffered from some frost damage at our nursery from the early fall frost (-10F) on 10\/25\/20, Dolgo didn’t bat an eye.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCider \u0026amp; Culinary Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough I’ve never used Dolgo for cider, I have used one of its descendants, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/kerr-crab\"\u003eKerr apple crab\u003c\/a\u003e (which is crossed with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/haralson-apple\"\u003eHaralson\u003c\/a\u003e) and that made for I think the best tasting cider I’ve ever had. Some sources say it makes great jelly and I’d bet Dolgo cider ain’t too shabby, especially when blended with something sweet like \u003ca href=\"\/products\/macoun-apple\"\u003eMacoun\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/products\/honeycrisp\"\u003eHoneycrisp\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eZone 2 hardy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-faq\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuestions we get about Dolgo Crabapple\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes Dolgo Crabapple need a pollenizer?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Dolgo Crabapple needs pollen from a different variety that blooms at about the same time. Plant a different apple or crabapple variety that blooms in groups 1 to 3. It has good pollen, so it can also pollenize other apples blooming at the same time. Partners we carry include \u003ca href=\"\/products\/chestnut-crabapple\"\u003eChestnut Applecrab\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/crimson-beauty-apple\"\u003eCrimson Beauty Apple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/lodi-apple\"\u003eLodi Apple\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow cold hardy is Dolgo Crabapple?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe rate Dolgo Crabapple hardy to zone 1b. Our ratings come from real winters at our two Montana sites and from trusted growers across the North, not from a catalog average.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow many chill hours does Dolgo Crabapple need?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout 500 hours of winter chill (we count hours at or below 45°F), likely somewhere between 400 and 1,000. Published figures for it disagree, so treat that as a middle estimate. Nurseries list 400 to 500 hours and it fruits in low-chill California, though a lab test ranked it closer to standard apples. It blooms early, so watch spring frosts. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003echill hours guide\u003c\/a\u003e has a calculator for your winters, and our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#dolgo-crabapple-bundle-of-2\"\u003eresearch page\u003c\/a\u003e lists the sources.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhen does Dolgo Crabapple ripen?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout Aug 19 to Sep 1 in Missoula, Montana (an estimate built from published sources and our climate). Warmer places run earlier and cooler places later; our ripening map converts the date to your town.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat is Dolgo Crabapple good for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur top use scores for Dolgo Crabapple are jams and jellies (9\/10), ornamental value (8\/10), pollenizing other trees (8\/10), sauce and butter (7\/10). Anything scored 8 or higher makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWill deer eat Dolgo Crabapple?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, deer love it. Protect Dolgo Crabapple with a fence or a cage, especially while it is young.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat arrives, and when does Dolgo Crabapple ship?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA dormant bare-root plant, roots wrapped in moist sawdust with a vapor barrier, shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring. Sizes offered: 2-3 ft. We guarantee our plants bud out. Stone fruits can be slow, so if one still has not budded out by August 15, write to us and we credit you for the following spring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"2-3 ft.","offer_id":45224515240002,"sku":null,"price":74.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/DolgoCrabapplesinthehand.jpg?v=1789598191"},{"product_id":"honeyberry-bundle-of-4","title":"Honeyberry (Bundle of 4) | Spring 2027","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"mft-facts\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a glance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Honeyberry is a honeyberry shrub rated hardy to zone 2 in our ratings (winters to -50°F), and not self-fertile, so it needs a different variety nearby as a pollenizer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"mft-facts-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eAlso called\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eHaskap, blue honeysuckle (Lonicera caerulea)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHardy to\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eZone 2 to 7. A bare number means the whole of zone 2, colder half included (winters to -50°F). Find your zone with our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/cold-hardiness-calculator\"\u003ecold hardiness calculator\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"mft-chill\"\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eChill hours\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout 1,000 hours (750 to 1,200). From published figures. Montana winters give it plenty. In milder climates, make sure your winters average at least this much. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003eCheck your chill hours\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#honeyberry-bundle-of-4\"\u003esee our sources\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePollination\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNeeds Cross-Pollination. Bloom group 3 of 7 (early-mid), very early spring here. Plant the whole bundle together: Aurora needs Tundra nearby to set fruit. If you add more honeyberries later, pick early-to-mid bloomers like Borealis or Indigo types, not the late Boreal series. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/pollination-charts#honeyberry\"\u003ePollination Charts\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGood for\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFresh eating (8\/10), canning and freezing (8\/10), pies and baking (7\/10), jams and jellies (7\/10), sauce and butter (7\/10), juice and sweet cider (6\/10). Scores are our own 1 to 10 ratings; 8 and up makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDeer\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRarely bothered by deer.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat you get\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBare root, 3 Aurora and 1 Tundra. Shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring, roots wrapped in moist sawdust. Guaranteed to bud out.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince we tried a fresh Aurora Honeyberry during Montana State’s Western Ag. Research Center taste testing in July of 2019, we knew we had to grow it. Aurora consistently produces large berries, is easy to harvest, and demonstrates excellent flavor. Aurora is hardy to below -50°F. That said, a friend grows them in the Yukon, where temperatures dip below -65°F! He’s not so sure of the variety, but the point is, they’re tough and very well may grow in such extremes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePollination\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur pollenizer for the Aurora is Tundra, which we have found to be extremely reliable. The flavor is almost as good as Aurora, although the berry size is slightly smaller and the berries are a hint more tart. They are however, precocious and hardy. Easily hardy to at least -50F, which we must depend on in cold climates if we want Aurora to survive and do well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eBundle \u0026amp; Planting Instructions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese honeyberries come in a bundle of 4, 3 Aurora and 1 pollenizer, Tundra. They must be planted together for pollination.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePlant Size\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese honeyberries are currently our larger grade and going on their fourth year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:12px;color:#777;margin-top:24px\"\u003ePhotos: “Haskap (honeyberry)” by karen_hine, via \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/55620187@N05\/18469129480\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eFlickr\u003c\/a\u003e, public domain; “Жимолость голубая ягоды Саратов” by ИринаЯ, via \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:%D0%96%D0%B8%D0%BC%D0%BE%D0%BB%D0%BE%D1%81%D1%82%D1%8C_%D0%B3%D0%BE%D0%BB%D1%83%D0%B1%D0%B0%D1%8F_%D1%8F%D0%B3%D0%BE%D0%B4%D1%8B_%D0%A1%D0%B0%D1%80%D0%B0%D1%82%D0%BE%D0%B2.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/a\u003e, licensed \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/4.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eCC BY-SA 4.0\u003c\/a\u003e; “Blooming Lonicera caerulea” by WildBoar, via \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Blooming_Lonicera_caerulea.JPG\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/a\u003e, public domain; “Lonicera caerulea 2017” by Max071086, via \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Lonicera_caerulea_2017.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/a\u003e, licensed \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/4.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eCC BY-SA 4.0\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-faq\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuestions we get about Honeyberry\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes Honeyberry need a pollenizer?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Honeyberry needs pollen from a different variety that blooms at about the same time. Plant the whole bundle together: Aurora needs Tundra nearby to set fruit. If you add more honeyberries later, pick early-to-mid bloomers like Borealis or Indigo types, not the late Boreal series.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow cold hardy is Honeyberry?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe rate Honeyberry hardy to zone 2, which means winters down to about -50°F. Our ratings come from real winters at our two Montana sites and from trusted growers across the North, not from a catalog average.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow many chill hours does Honeyberry need?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout 1,000 hours of winter chill (we count hours at or below 45°F), likely somewhere between 750 and 1,200. That comes from published figures for this variety. Aurora needs roughly 1,000 to 1,200 chill hours. Once that's met, haskaps wake fast in warm spells, so frost can catch early blooms. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003echill hours guide\u003c\/a\u003e has a calculator for your winters, and our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#honeyberry-bundle-of-4\"\u003eresearch page\u003c\/a\u003e lists the sources.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat is Honeyberry good for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur top use scores for Honeyberry are fresh eating (8\/10), canning and freezing (8\/10), pies and baking (7\/10), jams and jellies (7\/10). Anything scored 8 or higher makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWill deer eat Honeyberry?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRarely. Deer seldom bother Honeyberry, though a hungry winter deer will try almost anything.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat arrives, and when does Honeyberry ship?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA dormant bare-root plant, roots wrapped in moist sawdust with a vapor barrier, shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring. Sizes offered: 3 Aurora and 1 Tundra. We guarantee our plants bud out. Stone fruits can be slow, so if one still has not budded out by August 15, write to us and we credit you for the following spring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"3 Year Old Larger Grade: 3 Aurora and 1 Tundra","offer_id":42611829145666,"sku":null,"price":139.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/honeyberry-haskap-ripe-berries.jpg?v=1791617882"},{"product_id":"itasca-grape-bundle-of-2","title":"Itasca Grape (Bundle of 2) | Spring 2027","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"mft-facts\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a glance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Itasca Grape is a grape vine rated hardy to zone 3b in our ratings (winters to -35°F), self-fertile, so one plant can crop, and it ripens about Sep 22 to Oct 1 in Missoula (our Missoula estimate).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"mft-facts-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHardy to\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eZone 3b to 8. The b means the warmer half of zone 3 only (winters to -35°F). Find your zone with our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/cold-hardiness-calculator\"\u003ecold hardiness calculator\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"mft-chill\"\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eChill hours\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout 550 hours (400 to 800). Our estimate. No published figure exists for this variety yet. Montana winters give it plenty. In milder climates, make sure your winters average at least this much. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003eCheck your chill hours\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#itasca-grape-bundle-of-2\"\u003esee our sources\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePollination\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSelf-Fertile. Bloom group 3 of 7 (early-mid), late spring to early summer here. Itasca sets fruit on its own, so one variety is enough. Grapes bloom in June, well after tree fruit. Bloom group is our estimate from the variety's origin and relatives. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/grape-pollination-chart\"\u003eGrape Pollination Chart\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRipens\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout Sep 22 to Oct 1 in Missoula (a Missoula estimate from published sources). Real years swing about a week either way. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/ripening-map\"\u003eSee the date for your town\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGood for\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWine (8\/10). Scores are our own 1 to 10 ratings; 8 and up makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDeer\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eA deer favorite. Fence it or cage it.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat you get\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBare root. Shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring, roots wrapped in moist sawdust. Guaranteed to bud out.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"84\" data-end=\"98\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"99\" data-end=\"311\"\u003eThe newest grape from the University of Minnesota’s breeding program, Itasca has proven itself to be one of the most cold-hardy grapes out there—even surpassing \u003ca href=\"\/products\/frontenac-grape-bundle-of-2\"\u003eFrontenac\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/marquette-grape-bundle-of-2\"\u003eMarquette\u003c\/a\u003e in terms of cold tolerance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"313\" data-end=\"351\"\u003eAromatics \u0026amp; Winemaking Potential\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"352\" data-end=\"615\"\u003eWith aromas of apple, pear, and violet and naturally lower acidity, this variety is especially well suited for dry white wines and sparkling wines. That said, some very nice off-dry wines have also been produced from Itasca, showing its versatility in the winery.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"617\" data-end=\"660\"\u003eEarly Ripening \u0026amp; Excellent Production\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"661\" data-end=\"918\"\u003eItasca is a very productive grape that ripens early, reaching brix levels in the mid-20s and a moderate acidity around 10 g\/L. It’s self-pollinating and suitable for most of Montana, and if you’ve got the right site, it could even be worth trying in Zone 3.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"920\" data-end=\"952\"\u003eResilient in Harsh Winters\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"953\" data-end=\"1237\"\u003eIf you regularly see temps below -30°F in the winter, it’s been our experience—and the experience of many others planting Itasca (and Marquette, among others)—that the tops may die back the first few winters, but the vines will consistently come up from the base the following spring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1239\" data-end=\"1525\"\u003eThis is totally fine because these vines are from rooted cuttings, not grafts, so what grows back will still be 100% Itasca. While it might set the grape back a bit at first, after a couple of years the vine typically becomes strong enough to withstand deeper frosts without dying back. But there likely will be a limit for the whole plant, which may be around -40F (although we're unsure of the precise number that extreme cold would kill the whole plant).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1527\" data-end=\"1543\"\u003ePlant Size\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1544\" data-end=\"1619\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003eThese are vines going on their second year with an established root system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:12px;color:#777;margin-top:24px\"\u003eAbout the photo: this isn’t Itasca itself. Photos of Itasca are either under copyright or simply unavailable, so we picked the open-source image that looks closest to the fruit. Photo: “Reif werden die Trauben” by Christine Tögel, via \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Reif_werden_die_Trauben.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/a\u003e, licensed \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/4.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eCC BY-SA 4.0\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-faq\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuestions we get about Itasca Grape\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes Itasca Grape need a pollenizer?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. Itasca Grape is self-fertile, so a single tree can set fruit. Itasca sets fruit on its own, so one variety is enough. Grapes bloom in June, well after tree fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow cold hardy is Itasca Grape?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe rate Itasca Grape hardy to zone 3b, which means winters down to about -35°F. Our ratings come from real winters at our two Montana sites and from trusted growers across the North, not from a catalog average.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow many chill hours does Itasca Grape need?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout 550 hours of winter chill (we count hours at or below 45°F), likely somewhere between 400 and 800. Nobody has published a chill figure for it, so that's our estimate from its relatives and origin. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003echill hours guide\u003c\/a\u003e has a calculator for your winters, and our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#itasca-grape-bundle-of-2\"\u003eresearch page\u003c\/a\u003e lists the sources.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhen does Itasca Grape ripen?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout Sep 22 to Oct 1 in Missoula, Montana (an estimate built from published sources and our climate). Warmer places run earlier and cooler places later; our ripening map converts the date to your town.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat is Itasca Grape good for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur top use scores for Itasca Grape are wine (8\/10). Anything scored 8 or higher makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWill deer eat Itasca Grape?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, deer love it. Protect Itasca Grape with a fence or a cage, especially while it is young.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat arrives, and when does Itasca Grape ship?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA dormant bare-root plant, roots wrapped in moist sawdust with a vapor barrier, shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring. We guarantee our plants bud out. Stone fruits can be slow, so if one still has not budded out by August 15, write to us and we credit you for the following spring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42472437416002,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/white-grape-cluster-on-vine.jpg?v=1791615998"},{"product_id":"jeanne-gooseberry-bundle-of-3","title":"Jeanne Gooseberry (Bundle of 2) | Spring 2027","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"mft-facts\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a glance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Jeanne Gooseberry is a gooseberry shrub rated hardy to zone 3 in our ratings (winters to -40°F), self-fertile, so one plant can crop, and it ripens about Jul 16 to Jul 26 in Missoula (our Missoula estimate).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"mft-facts-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHardy to\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eZone 3 to 7. A bare number means the whole of zone 3, colder half included (winters to -40°F). Find your zone with our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/cold-hardiness-calculator\"\u003ecold hardiness calculator\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"mft-chill\"\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eChill hours\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout 1,000 hours (1,000 to 1,400). From published figures. Montana winters give it plenty. In milder climates, make sure your winters average at least this much. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003eCheck your chill hours\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#jeanne-gooseberry-bundle-of-3\"\u003esee our sources\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePollination\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSelf-Fertile. Bloom group 6 of 7 (late), very early spring here. Jeanne sets fruit on its own. It blooms one to two weeks after other gooseberries, which can help it miss late frosts. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/currant-gooseberry-pollination-chart\"\u003eCurrant \u0026amp; Gooseberry Pollination Chart\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRipens\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout Jul 16 to Jul 26 in Missoula (a Missoula estimate from published sources). Real years swing about a week either way. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/ripening-map\"\u003eSee the date for your town\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGood for\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFresh eating (8\/10), pies and baking (7\/10), jams and jellies (7\/10), canning and freezing (6\/10). Scores are our own 1 to 10 ratings; 8 and up makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDeer\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRarely bothered by deer.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat you get\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBare root. Shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring, roots wrapped in moist sawdust. Guaranteed to bud out.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJeanne is a late-ripening, dark red dessert gooseberry with an unknown European pedigree. The genotype has been observed for 24 years at the USDA National Germplasm Repository in Corvallis, Oregon. Its origin prior to Corvallis is undocumented. Jeanne was named in honor of the late Ms. Cheryl Jeanne Gunning, who worked in the tissue culture laboratory of the NCGR from 1981 to 1985.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHigh Yield \u0026amp; Organic-Friendly\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe yield from ‘Jeanne’ is higher than many other gooseberry plants. When the USDA released it in 2005, they noted, \"We expect that this cultivar will be good for organic production because of its pest resistance and very good fruit quality.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHardy to sub -40°F temperatures, Jeanne is a great choice for colder climates.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePlant Size \u0026amp; Root System\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese Jeanne Gooseberry plants have a nice root system (lots of fine root hairs) and are, on average, 1-2 ft.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"border:1px solid #cfcfcf;border-left:4px solid #8a1c1c;background:#faf7f6;padding:14px 18px;margin-top:28px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0 0 10px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShipping restrictions: white pine blister rust quarantine\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0 0 10px;\"\u003eGooseberries and currants (\u003cem\u003eRibes\u003c\/em\u003e species) are alternate hosts for white pine blister rust. We \u003cstrong\u003ecannot ship this plant to New Hampshire or North Carolina\u003c\/strong\u003e, where its sale or importation is prohibited by state law. North Carolina prohibits all \u003cem\u003eRibes\u003c\/em\u003e statewide; New Hampshire permits only a short list of named rust-resistant cultivars, which does not include this variety.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0 0 10px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePermit or county-level restrictions also apply in:\u003c\/strong\u003e Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and West Virginia (prohibited in specific counties or townships) and Delaware, Michigan, and Rhode Island (state permit required). Please check your local rules before ordering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0;font-size:0.9em;color:#555;\"\u003eOrders placed to a prohibited state will be cancelled and refunded.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:12px;color:#777;margin-top:24px\"\u003eAbout the photo: this isn’t Jeanne itself. Photos of Jeanne are either under copyright or simply unavailable, so we picked the open-source image that looks closest to the fruit. Photo: “Røde Stikkelsbær” by Øyvind Holmstad, via \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:R%C3%B8de_Stikkelsb%C3%A6r.JPG\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/a\u003e, licensed \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/3.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eCC BY-SA 3.0\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-faq\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuestions we get about Jeanne Gooseberry\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes Jeanne Gooseberry need a pollenizer?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. Jeanne Gooseberry is self-fertile, so a single tree can set fruit. Jeanne sets fruit on its own. It blooms one to two weeks after other gooseberries, which can help it miss late frosts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow cold hardy is Jeanne Gooseberry?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe rate Jeanne Gooseberry hardy to zone 3, which means winters down to about -40°F. Our ratings come from real winters at our two Montana sites and from trusted growers across the North, not from a catalog average.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow many chill hours does Jeanne Gooseberry need?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout 1,000 hours of winter chill (we count hours at or below 45°F), likely somewhere between 1,000 and 1,400. That comes from published figures for this variety. Jeanne needs at least 1,000 chill hours and blooms a week or two after other gooseberries, which helps it dodge late frosts. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003echill hours guide\u003c\/a\u003e has a calculator for your winters, and our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#jeanne-gooseberry-bundle-of-3\"\u003eresearch page\u003c\/a\u003e lists the sources.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhen does Jeanne Gooseberry ripen?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout Jul 16 to Jul 26 in Missoula, Montana (an estimate built from published sources and our climate). Warmer places run earlier and cooler places later; our ripening map converts the date to your town.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat is Jeanne Gooseberry good for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur top use scores for Jeanne Gooseberry are fresh eating (8\/10), pies and baking (7\/10), jams and jellies (7\/10), canning and freezing (6\/10). Anything scored 8 or higher makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWill deer eat Jeanne Gooseberry?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRarely. Deer seldom bother Jeanne Gooseberry, though a hungry winter deer will try almost anything.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat arrives, and when does Jeanne Gooseberry ship?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA dormant bare-root plant, roots wrapped in moist sawdust with a vapor barrier, shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring. We guarantee our plants bud out. Stone fruits can be slow, so if one still has not budded out by August 15, write to us and we credit you for the following spring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42472437448770,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/dark-red-gooseberries-representative.jpg?v=1791615759"},{"product_id":"liberty-apple","title":"Liberty Apple (Spring 2027)","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"mft-facts\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a glance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Liberty Apple is an apple tree rated hardy to zone 4 in our ratings (winters to -30°F), not self-fertile, so it needs a different variety nearby as a pollenizer (bloom group 3 of 7, early-mid for an apple or crabapple), and it ripens about Sep 28 to Oct 12 in Missoula (our Missoula estimate).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"mft-facts-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHardy to\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eZone 4 to 8. A bare number means the whole of zone 4, colder half included (winters to -30°F). Our notes have it taking -40°F. Find your zone with our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/cold-hardiness-calculator\"\u003ecold hardiness calculator\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"mft-chill\"\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eChill hours\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout 1,050 hours (850 to 1,150). Well documented. Independent sources agree. Montana winters give it plenty. In milder climates, make sure your winters average at least this much. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003eCheck your chill hours\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#liberty-apple\"\u003esee our sources\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePollination\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNeeds Cross-Pollination. Bloom group 3 of 7 (early-mid), late spring here. Plant a different apple or crabapple variety that blooms in groups 2 to 4. It has good pollen, so it can also pollenize other apples blooming at the same time. Good partners we carry: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/hewes-virginia-crabapple\"\u003eHewe's Virginia Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/hyslop-crabapple\"\u003eHyslop Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/wickson-crabapple\"\u003eWickson Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/blue-pearmain-apple\"\u003eBlue Pearmain Apple\u003c\/a\u003e and 100 more. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/apple-pollination-map\"\u003eApple Pollination Map\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRipens\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout Sep 28 to Oct 12 in Missoula (a Missoula estimate from published sources). Real years swing about a week either way. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/ripening-map\"\u003eSee the date for your town\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRootstock and size\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBud 118: semi-dwarf in our dry Montana soils, semi-standard on paper, about 12 to 18 ft tall unpruned. Stands on its own, few suckers. Dolgo: full size, about 20 to 30 ft tall unpruned. Very hardy and well anchored. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/rootstocks\"\u003eOur rootstock guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGood for\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFresh eating (7\/10), sauce and butter (7\/10), pies and baking (6\/10), canning and freezing (6\/10), winter storage (6\/10), jams and jellies (6\/10). Scores are our own 1 to 10 ratings; 8 and up makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDeer\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eA deer favorite. Fence it or cage it.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat you get\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBare root, 3-5 ft or 5-7 ft or 2-4 ft or 4-6 ft. Shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring, roots wrapped in moist sawdust. Guaranteed to bud out.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col grow\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv 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\"\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\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLiberty is an excellent choice for beginners and one of the best apples for Montana growers. It thrives in Rod McIver’s orchard in the colder part of Kalispell, which is a solid Zone 4. Introduced in 1978 by the NY Ag Experiment Station, Liberty is a cross between \u003ca href=\"\/products\/macoun-apple\"\u003eMacoun\u003c\/a\u003e and Purdue 54-12.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDisease Resistance\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLiberty is one of the few apples resistant to all the major apple diseases. It does not suffer from the scab issues or pre-harvest drop that McIntosh is known for. Its resistance comes from the Vf Malus floribunda scab-resistant gene, making Liberty an extremely easy and reliable apple to grow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFlavor\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLiberty is essentially an improved McIntosh, though without the classic McIntosh aroma. We actually prefer it more than McIntosh—its flavor is excellent, balanced, and consistently good, making it a favorite among cold-climate growers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn terms of cold hardiness, we rate Liberty as being comparable to McIntosh. It can withstand temperatures as low as -40°F, but anything colder than that might be too much for it. If you’re in an area that regularly experiences sub -40°F temperatures, you may want to consider other, more cold-hardy apple varieties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eRootstock and Availability for Spring 2027 Fulfillment\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor Spring 2027, we have Liberty in several different grades and ages, grafted onto two different rootstocks:\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBud 118 Rootstock:\u003c\/strong\u003e Semi-dwarf hardy to -45°F or more.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/dolgo-crabapple-bundle-of-2\"\u003eDolgo\u003c\/a\u003e:\u003c\/strong\u003e Hardy to -50°F, possibly -60°F. Full size.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-faq\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuestions we get about Liberty Apple\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes Liberty Apple need a pollenizer?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Liberty Apple needs pollen from a different variety that blooms at about the same time. Plant a different apple or crabapple variety that blooms in groups 2 to 4. It has good pollen, so it can also pollenize other apples blooming at the same time. Partners we carry include \u003ca href=\"\/products\/hewes-virginia-crabapple\"\u003eHewe's Virginia Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/hyslop-crabapple\"\u003eHyslop Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/wickson-crabapple\"\u003eWickson Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow cold hardy is Liberty Apple?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe rate Liberty Apple hardy to zone 4, which means winters down to about -30°F. Our notes have it taking -40°F. Our ratings come from real winters at our two Montana sites and from trusted growers across the North, not from a catalog average.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow many chill hours does Liberty Apple need?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout 1,050 hours of winter chill (we count hours at or below 45°F), likely somewhere between 850 and 1,150. That figure is well documented: independent sources agree. Tested at about 1,050 chill hours, a bit below average for apples. It still needs a real winter, but that's never a problem in Montana. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003echill hours guide\u003c\/a\u003e has a calculator for your winters, and our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#liberty-apple\"\u003eresearch page\u003c\/a\u003e lists the sources.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhen does Liberty Apple ripen?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout Sep 28 to Oct 12 in Missoula, Montana (an estimate built from published sources and our climate). Warmer places run earlier and cooler places later; our ripening map converts the date to your town.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow big does Liberty Apple get?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe graft Liberty Apple onto Bud 118 (semi-dwarf in our dry Montana soils, semi-standard on paper), which makes a tree roughly 12 to 18 ft tall if you never prune it. Some sizes are on \u003ca href=\"\/products\/dolgo-crabapple-bundle-of-2\"\u003eDolgo\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat is Liberty Apple good for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur top use scores for Liberty Apple are fresh eating (7\/10), sauce and butter (7\/10), pies and baking (6\/10), canning and freezing (6\/10).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWill deer eat Liberty Apple?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, deer love it. Protect Liberty Apple with a fence or a cage, especially while it is young.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Bud 118 Semi-Dwarf: 3-5 ft.","offer_id":45133866991682,"sku":null,"price":49.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bud 118 Semi-Dwarf: 5-7 ft.","offer_id":45133875937346,"sku":null,"price":69.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Dolgo Full Size: 2-4 ft. (One Year Older)","offer_id":42500853497922,"sku":null,"price":49.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Dolgo Full Size: 5-7 ft. (One Year Older)","offer_id":45133866926146,"sku":null,"price":89.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bud 118 Semi-Dwarf: 4-6 ft. (One Year Older)","offer_id":45133866958914,"sku":null,"price":74.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/liberty-apple-on-tree.webp?v=1789020421"},{"product_id":"pixwell-gooseberry","title":"Pixwell Gooseberry (Bundle of 2) | Spring 2027","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"mft-facts\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a glance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Pixwell Gooseberry is a gooseberry shrub rated hardy to zone 3 in our ratings (winters to -40°F), and self-fertile, so one plant can crop.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"mft-facts-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHardy to\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eZone 3 to 8. A bare number means the whole of zone 3, colder half included (winters to -40°F). Find your zone with our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/cold-hardiness-calculator\"\u003ecold hardiness calculator\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"mft-chill\"\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eChill hours\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout 1,000 hours (800 to 1,500). From published figures. Montana winters give it plenty. In milder climates, make sure your winters average at least this much. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003eCheck your chill hours\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#pixwell-gooseberry\"\u003esee our sources\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePollination\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSelf-Fertile. Bloom group 3 of 7 (early-mid), very early spring here. Pixwell sets fruit on its own, so one plant will crop. A second gooseberry variety nearby can give larger fruit set. Bloom group is our estimate from the variety's origin and relatives. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/currant-gooseberry-pollination-chart\"\u003eCurrant \u0026amp; Gooseberry Pollination Chart\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGood for\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePies and baking (8\/10), jams and jellies (8\/10), fresh eating (7\/10), canning and freezing (7\/10). Scores are our own 1 to 10 ratings; 8 and up makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDeer\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRarely bothered by deer.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat you get\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBare root, 2-3 ft. Shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring, roots wrapped in moist sawdust. Guaranteed to bud out.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eOne of our favorite cold climate shrubs for the fruit and ease of maintenance, Pixwell produces a medium sized gooseberry that is perfect for pies, jellies, and especially fresh of the shrub on a hot summer day. Pixwell has some tartness and when left on the shrub for longer, the berries turn slightly pink and generate a higher brix (more sugars) to balance the tartness. Can be planted in all parts of Montana. Zone 3.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eSelf-fertile but plant two different varieties for larger fruit set.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"border:1px solid #cfcfcf;border-left:4px solid #8a1c1c;background:#faf7f6;padding:14px 18px;margin-top:28px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0 0 10px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShipping restrictions: white pine blister rust quarantine\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0 0 10px;\"\u003eGooseberries and currants (\u003cem\u003eRibes\u003c\/em\u003e species) are alternate hosts for white pine blister rust. We \u003cstrong\u003ecannot ship this plant to New Hampshire or North Carolina\u003c\/strong\u003e, where its sale or importation is prohibited by state law. North Carolina prohibits all \u003cem\u003eRibes\u003c\/em\u003e statewide; New Hampshire permits only a short list of named rust-resistant cultivars, which does not include this variety.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0 0 10px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePermit or county-level restrictions also apply in:\u003c\/strong\u003e Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and West Virginia (prohibited in specific counties or townships) and Delaware, Michigan, and Rhode Island (state permit required). Please check your local rules before ordering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0;font-size:0.9em;color:#555;\"\u003eOrders placed to a prohibited state will be cancelled and refunded.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:12px;color:#777;margin-top:24px\"\u003ePhoto: “PI 556056 'Pixwell' (Ribes uva-crispa), fruit photo rib0220.001.pixwell.fruit1.2007” by USDA-ARS National Clonal Germplasm Repository, Corvallis, Oregon (GRIN-Global), via \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/npgsweb.ars-grin.gov\/gringlobal\/accessiondetail?id=1451028\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eUSDA GRIN\u003c\/a\u003e, public domain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-faq\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuestions we get about Pixwell Gooseberry\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes Pixwell Gooseberry need a pollenizer?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. Pixwell Gooseberry is self-fertile, so a single tree can set fruit. Pixwell sets fruit on its own, so one plant will crop. A second gooseberry variety nearby can give larger fruit set.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow cold hardy is Pixwell Gooseberry?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe rate Pixwell Gooseberry hardy to zone 3, which means winters down to about -40°F. Our ratings come from real winters at our two Montana sites and from trusted growers across the North, not from a catalog average.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow many chill hours does Pixwell Gooseberry need?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout 1,000 hours of winter chill (we count hours at or below 45°F), likely somewhere between 800 and 1,500. That comes from published figures for this variety. About 1,000 chill hours. Grows anywhere in Montana; it's mild-winter areas where gooseberries come up short on chill. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003echill hours guide\u003c\/a\u003e has a calculator for your winters, and our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#pixwell-gooseberry\"\u003eresearch page\u003c\/a\u003e lists the sources.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat is Pixwell Gooseberry good for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur top use scores for Pixwell Gooseberry are pies and baking (8\/10), jams and jellies (8\/10), fresh eating (7\/10), canning and freezing (7\/10). Anything scored 8 or higher makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWill deer eat Pixwell Gooseberry?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRarely. Deer seldom bother Pixwell Gooseberry, though a hungry winter deer will try almost anything.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat arrives, and when does Pixwell Gooseberry ship?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA dormant bare-root plant, roots wrapped in moist sawdust with a vapor barrier, shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring. Sizes offered: 2-3 ft. We guarantee our plants bud out. Stone fruits can be slow, so if one still has not budded out by August 15, write to us and we credit you for the following spring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"2-3 ft.","offer_id":42547513491522,"sku":null,"price":69.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/pixwell-gooseberries-on-bush.jpg?v=1791616155"},{"product_id":"pristine","title":"Pristine Apple (Spring 2027)","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"mft-facts\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a glance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Pristine Apple is an apple tree rated hardy to zone 4 in our ratings (winters to -30°F), not self-fertile, so it needs a different variety nearby as a pollenizer (bloom group 3 of 7, early-mid for an apple or crabapple), and it ripens about Aug 9 to Aug 21 in Missoula (our Missoula estimate).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"mft-facts-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHardy to\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eZone 4 to 8. A bare number means the whole of zone 4, colder half included (winters to -30°F). Find your zone with our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/cold-hardiness-calculator\"\u003ecold hardiness calculator\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"mft-chill\"\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eChill hours\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout 1,000 hours (850 to 1,200). Our estimate. No published figure exists for this variety yet. Montana winters give it plenty. In milder climates, make sure your winters average at least this much. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003eCheck your chill hours\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#pristine\"\u003esee our sources\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePollination\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNeeds Cross-Pollination. Bloom group 3 of 7 (early-mid), late spring here. Plant a different apple or crabapple variety that blooms in groups 2 to 4, such as Red Splendor Crabapple. Its pollen quality isn't confirmed yet, so don't count on it as the only pollenizer for another tree. Good partners we carry: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/red-splendor-crabapple\"\u003eRed Splendor Crabapple (Bundle of 2)\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/hewes-virginia-crabapple\"\u003eHewe's Virginia Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/hyslop-crabapple\"\u003eHyslop Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/wickson-crabapple\"\u003eWickson Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e and 100 more. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/apple-pollination-map\"\u003eApple Pollination Map\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRipens\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout Aug 9 to Aug 21 in Missoula (a Missoula estimate from published sources). Real years swing about a week either way. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/ripening-map\"\u003eSee the date for your town\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRootstock and size\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBud 118: semi-dwarf in our dry Montana soils, semi-standard on paper, about 12 to 18 ft tall unpruned. Stands on its own, few suckers. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/rootstocks\"\u003eOur rootstock guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGood for\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFresh eating (7\/10). Scores are our own 1 to 10 ratings; 8 and up makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDeer\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eA deer favorite. Fence it or cage it.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat you get\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBare root, 3-5 ft or 5-7 ft. Shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring, roots wrapped in moist sawdust. Guaranteed to bud out.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003ePristine is a very early-ripening yellow apple that delivers a crisp, tart-sweet flavor with subtle notes of spice, banana, and green apple. Bred as part of the Purdue-Rutgers-Illinois (PRI) disease-resistant breeding program, Pristine was named for its notably clean, disease-resistant fruit and foliage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eFlavor \u0026amp; Use\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFlavor profile:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tart to sweet with a touch of astringency and spice\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBest for: \u003c\/strong\u003eFresh eating, salads, light cooking\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStorage:\u003c\/strong\u003e Although most summer apples don’t store well, we’ve successfully kept Pristine in refrigeration for about a month post-harvest with no signs of breakdown—surprisingly good for an early apple.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eDisease Resistance\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003ePristine is an excellent choice for organic or low-spray growers due to its:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eHigh resistance to scab\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eModerate resistance to powdery mildew, fire blight, and cedar-apple rust\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eIn essence, it’s a more refined, disease-resistant version of Golden Delicious, tailored for the 21st century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eClimate Considerations\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eWhile Pristine performs well in many climates, it is only hardy to around -40°F, making it marginal or unsuitable for the coldest areas of Montana, Alaska, Wyoming, Idaho, Minnesota, or Wisconsin. If you’re in one of these ultra-cold regions, consider hardier alternatives such as:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/norkent-apple\"\u003eNorkent\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/prairie-sensation-apple\"\u003ePrairie Sensation\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/rescue-apple-crab\"\u003eRescue\u003c\/a\u003e or other early applecrabs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eSpring 2027 Availability\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eOur Spring 2027 Pristine trees are bare root, 3-5 ft. and 5-7 ft. tall, and grafted onto Bud 118 semi-dwarf rootstock, which is even more cold hardy than Pristine. However, we wouldn't recommend planting Pristine if you are in an area that can witness sub-40F temps.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-faq\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuestions we get about Pristine Apple\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes Pristine Apple need a pollenizer?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Pristine Apple needs pollen from a different variety that blooms at about the same time. Plant a different apple or crabapple variety that blooms in groups 2 to 4, such as \u003ca href=\"\/products\/red-splendor-crabapple\"\u003eRed Splendor Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e. Its pollen quality isn't confirmed yet, so don't count on it as the only pollenizer for another tree. Partners we carry include Red Splendor Crabapple (Bundle of 2), \u003ca href=\"\/products\/hewes-virginia-crabapple\"\u003eHewe's Virginia Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/hyslop-crabapple\"\u003eHyslop Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow cold hardy is Pristine Apple?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe rate Pristine Apple hardy to zone 4, which means winters down to about -30°F. Our ratings come from real winters at our two Montana sites and from trusted growers across the North, not from a catalog average.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow many chill hours does Pristine Apple need?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout 1,000 hours of winter chill (we count hours at or below 45°F), likely somewhere between 850 and 1,200. Nobody has published a chill figure for it, so that's our estimate from its relatives and origin. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003echill hours guide\u003c\/a\u003e has a calculator for your winters, and our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#pristine\"\u003eresearch page\u003c\/a\u003e lists the sources.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhen does Pristine Apple ripen?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout Aug 9 to Aug 21 in Missoula, Montana (an estimate built from published sources and our climate). Warmer places run earlier and cooler places later; our ripening map converts the date to your town.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow big does Pristine Apple get?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe graft Pristine Apple onto Bud 118 (semi-dwarf in our dry Montana soils, semi-standard on paper), which makes a tree roughly 12 to 18 ft tall if you never prune it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat is Pristine Apple good for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur top use scores for Pristine Apple are fresh eating (7\/10).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWill deer eat Pristine Apple?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, deer love it. Protect Pristine Apple with a fence or a cage, especially while it is young.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Bud 118 Semi-Dwarf: 3-5 ft.","offer_id":42503585628226,"sku":null,"price":49.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bud 118 Semi-Dwarf: 5-7 ft. (Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping)","offer_id":45134382956610,"sku":null,"price":69.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/pristine-apple-on-tree.webp?v=1789020829"},{"product_id":"somerset-seedless-grape-bundle-of-2","title":"Somerset Seedless Grape (Bundle of 2) | Spring 2027","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"mft-facts\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a glance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Somerset Seedless Grape is a grape vine rated hardy to zone 3 in our ratings (winters to -40°F), and self-fertile, so one plant can crop.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"mft-facts-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHardy to\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eZone 3 to 8. A bare number means the whole of zone 3, colder half included (winters to -40°F). Our notes have it taking -50°F. Find your zone with our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/cold-hardiness-calculator\"\u003ecold hardiness calculator\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"mft-chill\"\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eChill hours\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout 500 hours (350 to 750). Our estimate. No published figure exists for this variety yet. Montana winters give it plenty. In milder climates, make sure your winters average at least this much. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003eCheck your chill hours\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#somerset-seedless-grape-bundle-of-2\"\u003esee our sources\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePollination\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSelf-Fertile. Bloom group 4 of 7 (mid), late spring to early summer here. Somerset Seedless has perfect flowers and sets fruit on its own, so one variety is enough. Seedless grapes still need their flowers pollinated, but Somerset does that itself. Grapes bloom in June, well after tree fruit. Bloom group is our estimate from the variety's origin and relatives. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/grape-pollination-chart\"\u003eGrape Pollination Chart\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGood for\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFresh eating (8\/10), jams and jellies (6\/10). Scores are our own 1 to 10 ratings; 8 and up makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDeer\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eA deer favorite. Fence it or cage it.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat you get\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBare root. Shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring, roots wrapped in moist sawdust. Guaranteed to bud out.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"\u003eSomerset is arguably one of the most cold-hardy seedless grapes. It produces rosy, small to medium-sized compact clusters with medium-sized berries that have adherent skins and a strawberry-like flavor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"\u003eBest Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"\u003eBest known for fresh eating, Somerset also holds potential for use as a sweet red dessert wine. It could also be used for jams and juices. Its versatility and great flavor make it an excellent addition to your edible landscape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"\u003eCold-Hardy Performance\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"\u003eSomerset does well all over Montana, with the exception of the coldest microclimates east of the Continental Divide, where temperatures can dip below -50°F. For example, we spoke to a customer in Joplin, Montana, who claimed the ambient temperature Jan. 2024 hit below -65°F (though we still need to verify this). Even if it reached -55°F, Somerset may struggle in such extreme conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"\u003eProtecting Somerset in Extremely Cold Climates\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"\u003eIn these colder climates, consider training the vine’s arms (cordons) low to the ground and mulching over them in the fall for added protection. This technique can help guard against severe frost. Hardy to at least -50°F, Somerset is a resilient variety, but a little extra care may be needed in extreme conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"\u003ePlant Size\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThese are vines going on their second year with an established root system.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-faq\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuestions we get about Somerset Seedless Grape\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes Somerset Seedless Grape need a pollenizer?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. Somerset Seedless Grape is self-fertile, so a single tree can set fruit. Somerset Seedless has perfect flowers and sets fruit on its own, so one variety is enough. Seedless grapes still need their flowers pollinated, but Somerset does that itself. Grapes bloom in June, well after tree fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow cold hardy is Somerset Seedless Grape?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe rate Somerset Seedless Grape hardy to zone 3, which means winters down to about -40°F. Our notes have it taking -50°F. Our ratings come from real winters at our two Montana sites and from trusted growers across the North, not from a catalog average.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow many chill hours does Somerset Seedless Grape need?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout 500 hours of winter chill (we count hours at or below 45°F), likely somewhere between 350 and 750. Nobody has published a chill figure for it, so that's our estimate from its relatives and origin. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003echill hours guide\u003c\/a\u003e has a calculator for your winters, and our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#somerset-seedless-grape-bundle-of-2\"\u003eresearch page\u003c\/a\u003e lists the sources.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat is Somerset Seedless Grape good for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur top use scores for Somerset Seedless Grape are fresh eating (8\/10), jams and jellies (6\/10). Anything scored 8 or higher makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWill deer eat Somerset Seedless Grape?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, deer love it. Protect Somerset Seedless Grape with a fence or a cage, especially while it is young.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat arrives, and when does Somerset Seedless Grape ship?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA dormant bare-root plant, roots wrapped in moist sawdust with a vapor barrier, shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring. We guarantee our plants bud out. Stone fruits can be slow, so if one still has not budded out by August 15, write to us and we credit you for the following spring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42472440922178,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/somerset-seedless-grape-on-vine.webp?v=1789021077"},{"product_id":"spartan-apple","title":"Spartan Apple (Spring 2027)","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"mft-facts\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a glance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Spartan Apple is an apple tree rated hardy to zone 2b in our ratings (winters to -45°F), not self-fertile, so it needs a different variety nearby as a pollenizer (bloom group 4 of 7, mid for an apple or crabapple), and it ripens about Oct 2 to Oct 12 in Missoula (picked and dated at our place in Missoula).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"mft-facts-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHardy to\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eZone 2b to 8. The b means the warmer half of zone 2 only (winters to -45°F). Our notes have it taking -40°F. Find your zone with our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/cold-hardiness-calculator\"\u003ecold hardiness calculator\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"mft-chill\"\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eChill hours\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout 800 hours (750 to 1,100). From published figures. Montana winters give it plenty. In milder climates, make sure your winters average at least this much. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003eCheck your chill hours\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#spartan-apple\"\u003esee our sources\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePollination\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNeeds Cross-Pollination. Bloom group 4 of 7 (mid), late spring here. Plant a different apple or crabapple variety that blooms in groups 3 to 5. It has good pollen, so it can also pollenize other apples blooming at the same time. Good partners we carry: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/otterson-apple\"\u003eOtterson Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/trail-crabapple\"\u003eTrail Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/alexander-apple\"\u003eAlexander Apple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/burgundy-apple\"\u003eBurgundy Apple\u003c\/a\u003e and 103 more. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/apple-pollination-map\"\u003eApple Pollination Map\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRipens\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout Oct 2 to Oct 12 in Missoula (picked and dated off our own trees). Real years swing about a week either way. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/ripening-map\"\u003eSee the date for your town\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRootstock and size\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSpy 227: full size. A Northern Spy selection. Bud 118: semi-dwarf in our dry Montana soils, semi-standard on paper, about 12 to 18 ft tall unpruned. Stands on its own, few suckers. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/rootstocks\"\u003eOur rootstock guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGood for\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFresh eating (7\/10), winter storage (6\/10). Scores are our own 1 to 10 ratings; 8 and up makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDeer\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eA deer favorite. Fence it or cage it.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat you get\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBare root, 3-5 ft or 4-6 ft or 5-7 ft. Shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring, roots wrapped in moist sawdust. Guaranteed to bud out.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eSpartan\u003cspan\u003e is a cross between \u003c\/span\u003eMcIntosh\u003cspan\u003e and an \u003c\/span\u003eunknown variety\u003cspan\u003e, developed at the BC Summerland Research Station in 1936. While it was originally thought to be \u003c\/span\u003eMcIntosh x \u003ca href=\"\/products\/newtown-pippin-apple\"\u003eNewtown Pippin\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, recent genetic analysis revealed that \u003c\/span\u003eNewtown Pippin\u003cspan\u003e is not one of its parents, leaving \u003c\/span\u003e50% of its identity a mystery\u003cspan\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eWe tried Spartan for the first time at Al and Mary Pernichele’s Frost Top Orchard in 2021. The apple seems to be one that people either love or prefer McIntosh over. Spartan hangs on the tree 1-2 weeks longer than McIntosh, ripening around the first or second week of October in Missoula. While considered a good all-purpose apple, it may be slightly hardier than McIntosh, making it a solid choice for colder climates.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eHardiness \u0026amp; Ripening\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eCold Hardiness: We believe Spartan is slightly hardier than McIntosh, which is hardy to -40F. Spartan is likely hardy to at least -45F. However, due to its later ripening, Spartan may not be ideal for areas with -45F or colder temperatures, as it ripens later than McIntosh. Spartan should be harvested 1-2 weeks after McIntosh, and may need to be picked earlier if an early frost threatens before it ripens fully.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eRootstock \u0026amp; Growth\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eFor Spring 2027, we’ve grafted Spartan onto two different rootstocks: Spy 227, and Bud 118. Both of these can withstand temps well into the -40Fs, and even -50F. How much colder than that is unknown, but if you are experiencing those temps, we would advise against Spartan anyways given our note above on its hardiness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:12px;color:#777;margin-top:24px\"\u003ePhotos: “Apples in basket 2018 G1” by George Chernilevsky, via \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Apples_in_basket_2018_G1.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/a\u003e, public domain; “13-20120907 UBCBG MalusCvSpartan” by Wendy Cutler, via \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/wlcutler\/7960750712\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eFlickr\u003c\/a\u003e, licensed \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eCC BY 2.0\u003c\/a\u003e; “Spartan CMD1506026 copy” by Apple and Pear Australia Ltd, via \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/applesnpearsau\/19352403699\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eFlickr\u003c\/a\u003e, licensed \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eCC BY 2.0\u003c\/a\u003e; “Spartan apple” by Glysiak, via \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Spartan_apple.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/a\u003e, licensed \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/3.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eCC BY-SA 3.0\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-faq\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuestions we get about Spartan Apple\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes Spartan Apple need a pollenizer?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Spartan Apple needs pollen from a different variety that blooms at about the same time. Plant a different apple or crabapple variety that blooms in groups 3 to 5. It has good pollen, so it can also pollenize other apples blooming at the same time. Partners we carry include \u003ca href=\"\/products\/otterson-apple\"\u003eOtterson Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/trail-crabapple\"\u003eTrail Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/alexander-apple\"\u003eAlexander Apple\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow cold hardy is Spartan Apple?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe rate Spartan Apple hardy to zone 2b, which means winters down to about -45°F. Our notes have it taking -40°F. Our ratings come from real winters at our two Montana sites and from trusted growers across the North, not from a catalog average.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow many chill hours does Spartan Apple need?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout 800 hours of winter chill (we count hours at or below 45°F), likely somewhere between 750 and 1,100. That comes from published figures for this variety. That's about the same as its McIntosh parent. Montana winters cover that easily. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003echill hours guide\u003c\/a\u003e has a calculator for your winters, and our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#spartan-apple\"\u003eresearch page\u003c\/a\u003e lists the sources.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhen does Spartan Apple ripen?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout Oct 2 to Oct 12 in Missoula, Montana (picked and dated off our own trees). Warmer places run earlier and cooler places later; our ripening map converts the date to your town.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow big does Spartan Apple get?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe graft Spartan Apple onto Spy 227 (full size). Some sizes are on Bud 118.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat is Spartan Apple good for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur top use scores for Spartan Apple are fresh eating (7\/10), winter storage (6\/10).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWill deer eat Spartan Apple?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, deer love it. Protect Spartan Apple with a fence or a cage, especially while it is young.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Spy 227 Full Size: 3-5 ft. (One Year Older)","offer_id":42504677818434,"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":45134744748098,"sku":null,"price":74.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Spy 227 Full Size: 5-7 ft. (One Year Older) Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping","offer_id":45134744780866,"sku":null,"price":69.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/spartan-apples-basket.jpg?v=1791616070"},{"product_id":"wolf-river-apple","title":"Wolf River Apple (Spring 2027)","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"mft-facts\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a glance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Wolf River Apple is an apple tree rated hardy to zone 2b in our ratings (winters to -45°F), not self-fertile, so it needs a different variety nearby as a pollenizer (bloom group 4 of 7, mid for an apple or crabapple), and it ripens about Sep 14 to Sep 28 in Missoula (our Missoula estimate).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"mft-facts-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHardy to\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eZone 2b to 7. The b means the warmer half of zone 2 only (winters to -45°F). Our notes have it taking -50°F. Find your zone with our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/cold-hardiness-calculator\"\u003ecold hardiness calculator\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"mft-chill\"\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eChill hours\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout 1,050 hours (1,000 to 1,250). Well documented. Independent sources agree. Montana winters give it plenty. In milder climates, make sure your winters average at least this much. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003eCheck your chill hours\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#wolf-river-apple\"\u003esee our sources\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePollination\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNeeds Cross-Pollination. Bloom group 4 of 7 (mid), late spring here. Plant a different apple or crabapple variety that blooms in groups 3 to 5. Its pollen quality isn't confirmed yet, so don't count on it as the only pollenizer for another tree. Good partners we carry: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/otterson-apple\"\u003eOtterson Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/trail-crabapple\"\u003eTrail Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/alexander-apple\"\u003eAlexander Apple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/burgundy-apple\"\u003eBurgundy Apple\u003c\/a\u003e and 103 more. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/apple-pollination-map\"\u003eApple Pollination Map\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRipens\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout Sep 14 to Sep 28 in Missoula (a Missoula estimate from published sources). Real years swing about a week either way. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/ripening-map\"\u003eSee the date for your town\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRootstock and size\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBud 118: semi-dwarf in our dry Montana soils, semi-standard on paper, about 12 to 18 ft tall unpruned. Stands on its own, few suckers. Spy 227: full size. A Northern Spy selection. Plant 14 to 18 ft apart. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/rootstocks\"\u003eOur rootstock guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGood for\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSauce and butter (8\/10), cooking and roasting (7\/10), drying (7\/10), canning and freezing (7\/10), jams and jellies (7\/10). Scores are our own 1 to 10 ratings; 8 and up makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDeer\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eA deer favorite. Fence it or cage it.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat you get\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBare root, 3-5 ft or 5-7 ft. Shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring, roots wrapped in moist sawdust. Guaranteed to bud out.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" class=\"\"\u003eWolf River originated as a chance seedling in Wisconsin, dating back to at least 1875. It quickly gained a reputation for its massive fruit size, making it one of the largest apples we’ve seen growing in Montana—second only to \u003ca href=\"\/products\/spokane-beauty-apple\"\u003eSpokane Beauty\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eFlavor \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" class=\"\"\u003eGreat for fresh eating, but especially valued for its rich, fluffy apple butter, which develops beautifully after slow cooking for hours.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" class=\"\"\u003eA true old-fashioned apple that shines in both flavor and function.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eHardiness \u0026amp; Performance\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" class=\"\"\u003eHardy to -50F or more, Wolf River does exceptionally well even east of the Continental Divide, where conditions are colder, drier, and windier.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" class=\"\"\u003eFor more on its Montana performance, check out research from the Western Ag Research Center in the Bitterroot Valley.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eRootstock \u0026amp; Tree Size\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" class=\"\"\u003eGrafted onto Spy 227 rootstock, a full size rootstock hardy to -50F or colder, as well as Bud 118. For \u003cspan\u003eBud 118, a practical spacing range is 14–18 feet between trees, depending on how hard you plan to prune for size control and how vigorous your site is. In richer soils or irrigated ground, wider spacing reduces shading and improves airflow; in leaner soils with consistent pruning, spacing can be somewhat tighter.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" class=\"\"\u003ePhoto of the apple in hand courtesy of WARC\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:12px;color:#777;margin-top:24px\"\u003ePhotos: “Wolf river apples by William Palmer” by William Palmer \/ Watershed Post, via \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/watershedpost\/22145580230\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eFlickr\u003c\/a\u003e, licensed \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eCC BY 2.0\u003c\/a\u003e; “Ailly-le-Haut-Clocher, Apple festival 04 et 05-11-2023 (apples) (57) - Wolf River” by APictche, via \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Ailly-le-Haut-Clocher,_Apple_festival_04_et_05-11-2023_(apples)_(57)_-_Wolf_River.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/a\u003e, licensed \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/4.0\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eCC BY-SA 4.0\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-faq\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuestions we get about Wolf River Apple\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes Wolf River Apple need a pollenizer?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Wolf River Apple needs pollen from a different variety that blooms at about the same time. Plant a different apple or crabapple variety that blooms in groups 3 to 5. Its pollen quality isn't confirmed yet, so don't count on it as the only pollenizer for another tree. Partners we carry include \u003ca href=\"\/products\/otterson-apple\"\u003eOtterson Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/trail-crabapple\"\u003eTrail Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/alexander-apple\"\u003eAlexander Apple\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow cold hardy is Wolf River Apple?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe rate Wolf River Apple hardy to zone 2b, which means winters down to about -45°F. Our notes have it taking -50°F. Our ratings come from real winters at our two Montana sites and from trusted growers across the North, not from a catalog average.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow many chill hours does Wolf River Apple need?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout 1,050 hours of winter chill (we count hours at or below 45°F), likely somewhere between 1,000 and 1,250. That figure is well documented: independent sources agree. A higher-chill apple at roughly 1,000 to 1,200 hours. Great for cold country, a poor pick for mild-winter areas. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003echill hours guide\u003c\/a\u003e has a calculator for your winters, and our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#wolf-river-apple\"\u003eresearch page\u003c\/a\u003e lists the sources.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhen does Wolf River Apple ripen?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout Sep 14 to Sep 28 in Missoula, Montana (an estimate built from published sources and our climate). Warmer places run earlier and cooler places later; our ripening map converts the date to your town.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow big does Wolf River Apple get?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe graft Wolf River Apple onto Bud 118 (semi-dwarf in our dry Montana soils, semi-standard on paper), which makes a tree roughly 12 to 18 ft tall if you never prune it. Some sizes are on Spy 227. Plant 14 to 18 ft apart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat is Wolf River Apple good for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur top use scores for Wolf River Apple are sauce and butter (8\/10), cooking and roasting (7\/10), drying (7\/10), canning and freezing (7\/10). Anything scored 8 or higher makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWill deer eat Wolf River Apple?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, deer love it. Protect Wolf River Apple with a fence or a cage, especially while it is young.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Bud 118 Semi-Dwarf: 3-5 ft.","offer_id":45144728010818,"sku":null,"price":49.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Spy 227 Full Size: 3-5 ft. (One Year Older)","offer_id":43017173467202,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bud 118 Semi-Dwarf: 5-7 ft. (Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping)","offer_id":45144728043586,"sku":null,"price":69.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Spy 227 Full Size: 5-7 ft. (One Year Older)","offer_id":42511539437634,"sku":null,"price":89.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/wolf-river-apples-box.jpg?v=1791617259"},{"product_id":"zestar-apple","title":"Zestar!® Apple (Spring 2027)","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"mft-facts\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a glance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Zestar!® Apple is an apple tree rated hardy to zone 3 in our ratings (winters to -40°F), not self-fertile, so it needs a different variety nearby as a pollenizer (bloom group 4 of 7, mid for an apple or crabapple), and it ripens about Aug 19 to Sep 2 in Missoula (our Missoula estimate).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"mft-facts-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHardy to\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eZone 3 to 7. A bare number means the whole of zone 3, colder half included (winters to -40°F). Find your zone with our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/cold-hardiness-calculator\"\u003ecold hardiness calculator\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"mft-chill\"\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eChill hours\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout 800 hours (700 to 1,100). From published figures. Montana winters give it plenty. In milder climates, make sure your winters average at least this much. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003eCheck your chill hours\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#zestar-apple\"\u003esee our sources\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePollination\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNeeds Cross-Pollination. Bloom group 4 of 7 (mid), late spring here. Plant a different apple or crabapple variety that blooms in groups 3 to 5, such as \u003ca href=\"\/products\/red-splendor-crabapple\"\u003eRed Splendor Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e. It has good pollen, so it can also pollenize other apples blooming at the same time. Good partners we carry: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/otterson-apple\"\u003eOtterson Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/trail-crabapple\"\u003eTrail Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/alexander-apple\"\u003eAlexander Apple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/burgundy-apple\"\u003eBurgundy Apple\u003c\/a\u003e and 103 more. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/apple-pollination-map\"\u003eApple Pollination Map\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRipens\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout Aug 19 to Sep 2 in Missoula (a Missoula estimate from published sources). Real years swing about a week either way. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/ripening-map\"\u003eSee the date for your town\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRootstock and size\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSpy 227: full size. A Northern Spy selection. Plant 18 to 20 ft apart. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/rootstocks\"\u003eOur rootstock guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGood for\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFresh eating (8\/10), cooking and roasting (6\/10), pies and baking (6\/10). Scores are our own 1 to 10 ratings; 8 and up makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDeer\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eA deer favorite. Fence it or cage it.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat you get\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBare root, 3-5 ft or 5-7 ft. Shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring, roots wrapped in moist sawdust. Guaranteed to bud out.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eZestar! is another standout from the University of Minnesota, bred from a cross of State Fair x MN 1691. An early to mid-season apple, it ripens in late August to early September at Benson’s Farm in Missoula.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eFlavor \u0026amp; Use\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" class=\"\"\u003eCrunchy, subacid, and pleasantly spiced—with a hint of cinnamon.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" class=\"\"\u003eOnly tried fresh so far, but we love the refreshing snap and complex flavor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" class=\"\"\u003eOne of the best-storing summer apples we’ve grown—holds up over two months in the fridge without turning mealy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" class=\"\"\u003eHardy to -40F, and possibly -45F.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" class=\"\"\u003eUse caution in regions colder than that—this variety may not hold up in Zone 2 or colder pockets without protection. Zestar! and many other University of Minnesota apples do not shut down early enough in time in the Fall for Ed Schultz in Gallatin Gateway, MT.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eRootstock \u0026amp; Growing Tips\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" class=\"\"\u003eFor Spring 2027, we’ve grafted Zestar! onto the full size Spy 227. These were actually grafted in 2025 and will have been growing for two years before the time of fulfillment in Spring 2027. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSpy 227 rootstock produces a standard size tree. At maturity, they require spacing of approximately 18–20 feet between trees. With intensive pruning and canopy management, closer spacing may be possible, while wider spacing can improve airflow and light penetration in humid or disease-prone sites.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-faq\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuestions we get about Zestar!® Apple\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes Zestar!® Apple need a pollenizer?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Zestar!® Apple needs pollen from a different variety that blooms at about the same time. Plant a different apple or crabapple variety that blooms in groups 3 to 5, such as \u003ca href=\"\/products\/red-splendor-crabapple\"\u003eRed Splendor Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e. It has good pollen, so it can also pollenize other apples blooming at the same time. Partners we carry include \u003ca href=\"\/products\/otterson-apple\"\u003eOtterson Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/trail-crabapple\"\u003eTrail Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/alexander-apple\"\u003eAlexander Apple\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow cold hardy is Zestar!® Apple?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe rate Zestar!® Apple hardy to zone 3, which means winters down to about -40°F. Our ratings come from real winters at our two Montana sites and from trusted growers across the North, not from a catalog average.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow many chill hours does Zestar!® Apple need?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout 800 hours of winter chill (we count hours at or below 45°F), likely somewhere between 700 and 1,100. That comes from published figures for this variety. Montana winters cover that easily. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003echill hours guide\u003c\/a\u003e has a calculator for your winters, and our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#zestar-apple\"\u003eresearch page\u003c\/a\u003e lists the sources.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhen does Zestar!® Apple ripen?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout Aug 19 to Sep 2 in Missoula, Montana (an estimate built from published sources and our climate). Warmer places run earlier and cooler places later; our ripening map converts the date to your town.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow big does Zestar!® Apple get?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe graft Zestar!® Apple onto Spy 227 (full size). Plant 18 to 20 ft apart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat is Zestar!® Apple good for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur top use scores for Zestar!® Apple are fresh eating (8\/10), cooking and roasting (6\/10), pies and baking (6\/10). Anything scored 8 or higher makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWill deer eat Zestar!® Apple?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, deer love it. Protect Zestar!® Apple with a fence or a cage, especially while it is young.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Spy 227 Full Size: 3-5 ft. (One Year Older)","offer_id":42511547990082,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Spy 227 Full Size: 5-7 ft. (One Year Older) Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping","offer_id":45145048514626,"sku":null,"price":89.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/ZestarApplesinaFruitBasket.jpg?v=1789671194"},{"product_id":"belle-de-boskoop-apple","title":"Belle de Boskoop Apple (Spring 2027)","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"mft-facts\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a glance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Belle de Boskoop Apple is an apple tree rated hardy to zone 4 from other growers' reports (winters to -30°F), not self-fertile, so it needs a different variety nearby as a pollenizer (bloom group 3 of 7, early-mid for an apple or crabapple), and it ripens about Oct 14 to Oct 26 in Missoula (our Missoula estimate).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"mft-facts-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHardy to\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eZone 4 to 7. A bare number means the whole of zone 4, colder half included (winters to -30°F). Find your zone with our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/cold-hardiness-calculator\"\u003ecold hardiness calculator\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"mft-chill\"\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eChill hours\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout 900 hours (800 to 1,000). Well documented. Independent sources agree. Montana winters give it plenty. In milder climates, make sure your winters average at least this much. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003eCheck your chill hours\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#belle-de-boskoop-apple\"\u003esee our sources\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePollination\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNeeds Cross-Pollination. Bloom group 3 of 7 (early-mid), late spring here. This is a triploid, so its pollen is poor and it can't pollenize other trees. Plant two different apple or crabapple varieties with good pollen that bloom in groups 2 to 4. Good partners we carry: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/hewes-virginia-crabapple\"\u003eHewe's Virginia Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/hyslop-crabapple\"\u003eHyslop Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/wickson-crabapple\"\u003eWickson Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/blue-pearmain-apple\"\u003eBlue Pearmain Apple\u003c\/a\u003e and 101 more. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/apple-pollination-map\"\u003eApple Pollination Map\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRipens\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout Oct 14 to Oct 26 in Missoula (a Missoula estimate from published sources). Real years swing about a week either way. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/ripening-map\"\u003eSee the date for your town\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRootstock and size\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBud 118: semi-dwarf in our dry Montana soils, semi-standard on paper, about 12 to 18 ft tall unpruned. Stands on its own, few suckers. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/rootstocks\"\u003eOur rootstock guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGood for\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePies and baking (8\/10), sauce and butter (8\/10), cooking and roasting (8\/10), winter storage (8\/10), salads and slicing (7\/10), juice and sweet cider (7\/10). Scores are our 1 to 10 ratings, but since this is our first year with it they're based on published descriptions and other growers, not our own harvests. 8 and up makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDeer\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eA deer favorite. Fence it or cage it.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat you get\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBare root, 5-7 ft. Shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring, roots wrapped in moist sawdust. Guaranteed to bud out.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\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. It's 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, so it needs two other varieties with good pollen blooming nearby, and it ripens late in the season. Hardy to zone 4, so it will likely 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\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-faq\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuestions we get about Belle de Boskoop Apple\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes Belle de Boskoop Apple need a pollenizer?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Belle de Boskoop Apple needs pollen from a different variety that blooms at about the same time. This is a triploid, so its pollen is poor and it can't pollenize other trees. Plant two different apple or crabapple varieties with good pollen that bloom in groups 2 to 4. Partners we carry include \u003ca href=\"\/products\/hewes-virginia-crabapple\"\u003eHewe's Virginia Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/hyslop-crabapple\"\u003eHyslop Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/wickson-crabapple\"\u003eWickson Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow cold hardy is Belle de Boskoop Apple?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe list Belle de Boskoop Apple at zone 4, which means winters down to about -30°F. This is our first year growing it, so that rating comes from other growers' reports and published sources, not our own winters. We'll adjust it once our trees have seen a few Montana winters.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow many chill hours does Belle de Boskoop Apple need?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout 900 hours of winter chill (we count hours at or below 45°F), likely somewhere between 800 and 1,000. That figure is well documented: independent sources agree. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003echill hours guide\u003c\/a\u003e has a calculator for your winters, and our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#belle-de-boskoop-apple\"\u003eresearch page\u003c\/a\u003e lists the sources.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhen does Belle de Boskoop Apple ripen?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout Oct 14 to Oct 26 in Missoula, Montana (an estimate built from published sources and our climate). Warmer places run earlier and cooler places later; our ripening map converts the date to your town.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow big does Belle de Boskoop Apple get?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe graft Belle de Boskoop Apple onto Bud 118 (semi-dwarf in our dry Montana soils, semi-standard on paper), which makes a tree roughly 12 to 18 ft tall if you never prune it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat is Belle de Boskoop Apple good for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur top use scores for Belle de Boskoop Apple are pies and baking (8\/10), sauce and butter (8\/10), cooking and roasting (8\/10), winter storage (8\/10). Since this is our first year with it, those scores come from published descriptions and other growers, not our own harvests. Anything scored 8 or higher makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWill deer eat Belle de Boskoop Apple?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, deer love it. Protect Belle de Boskoop Apple with a fence or a cage, especially while it is young.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\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":"claygate-pearmain-apple","title":"Claygate Pearmain Apple (Spring 2027)","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"mft-facts\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a glance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Claygate Pearmain Apple is an apple tree rated hardy to zone 4 from other growers' reports (winters to -30°F), and not self-fertile, so it needs a different variety nearby as a pollenizer (bloom group 4 of 7, mid for an apple or crabapple).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"mft-facts-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHardy to\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eZone 4 to 8. A bare number means the whole of zone 4, colder half included (winters to -30°F). Find your zone with our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/cold-hardiness-calculator\"\u003ecold hardiness calculator\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"mft-chill\"\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eChill hours\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout 900 hours (700 to 1,200). Our estimate. No published figure exists for this variety yet. Montana winters give it plenty. In milder climates, make sure your winters average at least this much. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003eCheck your chill hours\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#claygate-pearmain-apple\"\u003esee our sources\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePollination\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNeeds Cross-Pollination. Bloom group 4 of 7 (mid), late spring here. This is a triploid, so its pollen is poor and it can't pollenize other trees. Plant two different apple or crabapple varieties with good pollen that bloom in groups 3 to 5. Good partners we carry: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/otterson-apple\"\u003eOtterson Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/trail-crabapple\"\u003eTrail Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/alexander-apple\"\u003eAlexander Apple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/burgundy-apple\"\u003eBurgundy Apple\u003c\/a\u003e and 104 more. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/apple-pollination-map\"\u003eApple Pollination Map\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRootstock and size\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBud 118: semi-dwarf in our dry Montana soils, semi-standard on paper, about 12 to 18 ft tall unpruned. Stands on its own, few suckers. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/rootstocks\"\u003eOur rootstock guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGood for\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFresh eating (9\/10), winter storage (6\/10). Scores are our 1 to 10 ratings, but we're still new to this one, so they lean on published descriptions and other growers rather than our own harvests. 8 and up makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDeer\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eA deer favorite. Fence it or cage it.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat you get\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBare root, 5-7 ft. Shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring, roots wrapped in moist sawdust. Guaranteed to bud out.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eNote that we're still new to Claygate Pearmain, so this info is all second hand. In Spring 2025 we obtained high-quality scionwood from Tim Makepeace and bench-grafted a batch of Claygate Pearmain trees; the trees offered here are direct clones from that material and the tops are two years old now whilst the roots are three years old.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eParentage, Origin \u0026amp; History\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClaygate Pearmain originated as a chance seedling discovered in a hedge near the village of Claygate in Surrey, England, around 1821 by horticulturist John Braddick. Its exact parentage is unknown, and the variety is generally considered triploid, and therefore has sterile pollen (will not pollenize other apple trees). It rose to prominence in the Victorian era for its superb dessert quality, complex flavor, and distinctive russeted appearance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFruit \u0026amp; Tree Characteristics\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe fruit is medium to large, typically conical-oblong, with a green-yellow base color overlaid by a warm crimson flush and patches or netting of russet. The flesh is tender-crisp, juicy, and aromatic, with a rich, nutty depth of flavor often described as complex and layered. Trees are moderately vigorous, upright to spreading, spur-bearing, and known for producing heavy, regular crops with an apparent resistance to scab and fireblight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClaygate Pearmain has historically performed well in cool, damp, and northern temperate climates. While not among the most extreme cold-hardy apples we offer, it would likely survive and do well at least down to -35F, similar to some of the other English varieties. Solid zone 4 apple.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-faq\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuestions we get about Claygate Pearmain Apple\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes Claygate Pearmain Apple need a pollenizer?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Claygate Pearmain Apple needs pollen from a different variety that blooms at about the same time. This is a triploid, so its pollen is poor and it can't pollenize other trees. Plant two different apple or crabapple varieties with good pollen that bloom in groups 3 to 5. Partners we carry include \u003ca href=\"\/products\/otterson-apple\"\u003eOtterson Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/trail-crabapple\"\u003eTrail Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/alexander-apple\"\u003eAlexander Apple\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow cold hardy is Claygate Pearmain Apple?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe list Claygate Pearmain Apple at zone 4, which means winters down to about -30°F. We're still new to it, so that rating comes from published sources and other growers' reports rather than our own winters. We'll adjust it as our own trees go through more Montana winters.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow many chill hours does Claygate Pearmain Apple need?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout 900 hours of winter chill (we count hours at or below 45°F), likely somewhere between 700 and 1,200. Nobody has published a chill figure for it, so that's our estimate from its relatives and origin. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003echill hours guide\u003c\/a\u003e has a calculator for your winters, and our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#claygate-pearmain-apple\"\u003eresearch page\u003c\/a\u003e lists the sources.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow big does Claygate Pearmain Apple get?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe graft Claygate Pearmain Apple onto Bud 118 (semi-dwarf in our dry Montana soils, semi-standard on paper), which makes a tree roughly 12 to 18 ft tall if you never prune it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat is Claygate Pearmain Apple good for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur top use scores for Claygate Pearmain Apple are fresh eating (9\/10), winter storage (6\/10). Since we're still new to it, those scores lean on published descriptions and other growers rather than our own harvests. Anything scored 8 or higher makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWill deer eat Claygate Pearmain Apple?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, deer love it. Protect Claygate Pearmain Apple with a fence or a cage, especially while it is young.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat arrives, and when does Claygate Pearmain Apple ship?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA dormant bare-root plant, roots wrapped in moist sawdust with a vapor barrier, shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring. Sizes offered: 5-7 ft. We guarantee our plants bud out. Stone fruits can be slow, so if one still has not budded out by August 15, write to us and we credit you for the following spring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\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":42498991685698,"sku":null,"price":89.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/claygate-pearmain-apple-on-tree.jpg?v=1789019776"},{"product_id":"ellis-bitter-apple","title":"Ellis Bitter Apple (Spring 2027)","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"mft-facts\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a glance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ellis Bitter Apple is an apple tree rated hardy to zone 4 from other growers' reports (winters to -30°F), not self-fertile, so it needs a different variety nearby as a pollenizer (bloom group 7 of 7, very late for an apple or crabapple), and it ripens about Sep 4 to Sep 21 in Missoula (our Missoula estimate).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"mft-facts-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHardy to\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eZone 4 to 8. A bare number means the whole of zone 4, colder half included (winters to -30°F). Find your zone with our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/cold-hardiness-calculator\"\u003ecold hardiness calculator\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"mft-chill\"\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eChill hours\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout 1,000 hours (800 to 1,200). Our estimate. No published figure exists for this variety yet. Montana winters give it plenty. In milder climates, make sure your winters average at least this much. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003eCheck your chill hours\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#ellis-bitter-apple\"\u003esee our sources\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePollination\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNeeds Cross-Pollination. Bloom group 7 of 7 (very late), late spring here. Plant a different apple or crabapple variety that blooms in groups 6 to 7. It has good pollen, so it can also pollenize other apples blooming at the same time. Good partners we carry: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/binet-rouge-apple\"\u003eBinet Rouge Apple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/brown-snout-apple\"\u003eBrown Snout Apple\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/apple-pollination-map\"\u003eApple Pollination Map\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRipens\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout Sep 4 to Sep 21 in Missoula (a Missoula estimate from published sources). Real years swing about a week either way. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/ripening-map\"\u003eSee the date for your town\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRootstock and size\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBud 118: semi-dwarf in our dry Montana soils, semi-standard on paper, about 12 to 18 ft tall unpruned. Stands on its own, few suckers. Plant 15 to 18 ft apart. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/rootstocks\"\u003eOur rootstock guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGood for\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eHard cider (7\/10). Scores are our 1 to 10 ratings, but we're still new to this one, so they lean on published descriptions and other growers rather than our own harvests. 8 and up makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDeer\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eA deer favorite. Fence it or cage it.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat you get\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBare root, 4-6 ft. Shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring, roots wrapped in moist sawdust. Guaranteed to bud out.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"14\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"15\" data-end=\"528\"\u003eEllis Bitter is a specialty cider apple grown primarily for fermentation rather than fresh eating. Most of what we know about its cider characteristics, growth behavior, and disease tendencies comes from university research programs and extension-based cider cultivar evaluations. This is the first year we have grown Ellis Bitter, 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=\"530\" data-end=\"556\"\u003eFruit Quality \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"557\" data-end=\"897\"\u003eEllis Bitter is valued for its role in cider making, where it contributes tannin, structure, and mouthfeel rather than sweetness or fresh-eating appeal. University cider research programs describe it as a bittering apple used to add depth and balance in fermented cider, particularly when blended with higher-acid or higher-sugar varieties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"899\" data-end=\"927\"\u003eGrowth Habit \u0026amp; Spacing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"928\" data-end=\"1306\"\u003eExtension and research sources generally describe Ellis Bitter as a vigorous-growing apple. For Montana plantings, it should be treated as a vigorous tree and spaced accordingly. We have it on Bud-118 semi-dwarf rootstock, and should be spaced 15-18 ft. apart. Wider spacing helps maintain light penetration and airflow, which is especially important for cider apples grown for consistent ripening and disease management.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1308\" data-end=\"1325\"\u003ePollination\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1326\" data-end=\"1648\"\u003eEllis Bitter is not considered self-fertile and benefits from cross-pollination with other apple varieties that bloom at a similar time. In Montana, reliable fruit set will depend on having compatible pollenizers nearby as well as adequate pollinator activity during bloom, particularly in cool or windy spring conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1650\" data-end=\"1670\"\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1671\" data-end=\"2138\"\u003eCold hardiness information for Ellis Bitter is limited and best inferred from its classification as a European cider apple rather than an ultra-hardy northern dessert apple. For Montana, it should be approached conservatively and sited carefully, with attention to cold-air drainage, fall acclimation, and the use of cold-hardy rootstocks (we've got you covered here with Bud 118). It's likely hardy to -30F at least, although tread with caution if you are planting it in an area that can see colder temps than this. Its performance through extreme winter temperatures remains something that will need to be confirmed through local observation. Listed widely online as zone 4.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2140\" data-end=\"2159\"\u003eDisease Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2160\" data-end=\"2429\"\u003eUniversity and extension references consistently note that Ellis Bitter shows susceptibility to fire blight. In Montana, this makes canopy management and vigor control especially important, as fire blight risk increases during warm bloom periods and rapid shoot growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2431\" data-end=\"2469\"\u003eMontana Context \u0026amp; Our Experience\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2470\" data-end=\"2878\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003eEllis Bitter is best considered a trial cider apple for Montana growers. While its cider qualities are well documented in research and extension literature, regional performance data in the Northern Rockies and Intermountain West are limited. This is our first year growing Ellis Bitter, and we have not yet tasted the fruit or observed how it handles Montana winters, disease pressure, or cropping patterns.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:12px;color:#777;margin-top:24px\"\u003eAbout the photo: this isn’t Ellis Bitter itself. Photos of Ellis Bitter are either under copyright or simply unavailable, so we picked the open-source image that looks closest to the fruit. Photo: “CSIRO ScienceImage 11106 Apples on tree” by Liese Coulter, CSIRO, via \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:CSIRO_ScienceImage_11106_Apples_on_tree.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/a\u003e, licensed \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/3.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eCC BY 3.0\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-faq\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuestions we get about Ellis Bitter Apple\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes Ellis Bitter Apple need a pollenizer?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Ellis Bitter Apple needs pollen from a different variety that blooms at about the same time. Plant a different apple or crabapple variety that blooms in groups 6 to 7. It has good pollen, so it can also pollenize other apples blooming at the same time. Partners we carry include \u003ca href=\"\/products\/binet-rouge-apple\"\u003eBinet Rouge Apple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/brown-snout-apple\"\u003eBrown Snout Apple\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow cold hardy is Ellis Bitter Apple?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe list Ellis Bitter Apple at zone 4, which means winters down to about -30°F. We're still new to it, so that rating comes from published sources and other growers' reports rather than our own winters. We'll adjust it as our own trees go through more Montana winters.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow many chill hours does Ellis Bitter Apple need?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout 1,000 hours of winter chill (we count hours at or below 45°F), likely somewhere between 800 and 1,200. Nobody has published a chill figure for it, so that's our estimate from its relatives and origin. Late bloomer, so pair it with another late-blooming apple. No measured chill figure; plan on about 1,000 hours. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003echill hours guide\u003c\/a\u003e has a calculator for your winters, and our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#ellis-bitter-apple\"\u003eresearch page\u003c\/a\u003e lists the sources.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhen does Ellis Bitter Apple ripen?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout Sep 4 to Sep 21 in Missoula, Montana (an estimate built from published sources and our climate). Warmer places run earlier and cooler places later; our ripening map converts the date to your town.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow big does Ellis Bitter Apple get?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe graft Ellis Bitter Apple onto Bud 118 (semi-dwarf in our dry Montana soils, semi-standard on paper), which makes a tree roughly 12 to 18 ft tall if you never prune it. Plant 15 to 18 ft apart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat is Ellis Bitter Apple good for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur top use scores for Ellis Bitter Apple are hard cider (7\/10). We haven't tasted the fruit yet, so that score leans on published descriptions and other growers rather than our own harvests.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWill deer eat Ellis Bitter Apple?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, deer love it. Protect Ellis Bitter Apple with a fence or a cage, especially while it is young.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\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":42499027992642,"sku":null,"price":74.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/red-flushed-apples-on-tree.jpg?v=1791615379"},{"product_id":"lodi-apple","title":"Lodi Apple (Spring 2027)","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"mft-facts\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a glance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Lodi Apple is an apple tree rated hardy to zone 2b in our ratings (winters to -45°F), not self-fertile, so it needs a different variety nearby as a pollenizer (bloom group 2 of 7, early for an apple or crabapple), and it ripens about Aug 7 to Aug 19 in Missoula (our Missoula estimate).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"mft-facts-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHardy to\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eZone 2b to 8. The b means the warmer half of zone 2 only (winters to -45°F). Find your zone with our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/cold-hardiness-calculator\"\u003ecold hardiness calculator\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"mft-chill\"\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eChill hours\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout 1,000 hours (700 to 1,500). Published figures disagree, so treat this as a middle estimate. Montana winters give it plenty. In milder climates, make sure your winters average at least this much. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003eCheck your chill hours\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#lodi-apple\"\u003esee our sources\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePollination\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNeeds Cross-Pollination. Bloom group 2 of 7 (early), late spring here. Plant a different apple or crabapple variety that blooms in groups 1 to 3, such as Norda, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/norkent-apple\"\u003eNorkent\u003c\/a\u003e or Carroll. It has good pollen, so it can also pollenize other apples blooming at the same time. Good partners we carry: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/martha-applecrab\"\u003eMartha Applecrab\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/norda-apple\"\u003eNorda Apple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/carroll-apple\"\u003eCarroll Apple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/dolgo-crabapple-bundle-of-2\"\u003eDolgo Crabapple (Bundle of 2)\u003c\/a\u003e and 42 more. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/apple-pollination-map\"\u003eApple Pollination Map\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRipens\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout Aug 7 to Aug 19 in Missoula (a Missoula estimate from published sources). Real years swing about a week either way. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/ripening-map\"\u003eSee the date for your town\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRootstock and size\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSpy 227: full size. A Northern Spy selection. Bud 118: semi-dwarf in our dry Montana soils, semi-standard on paper, about 12 to 18 ft tall unpruned. Stands on its own, few suckers. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/rootstocks\"\u003eOur rootstock guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGood for\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSauce and butter (8\/10), cooking and roasting (7\/10), canning and freezing (7\/10), jams and jellies (7\/10), pies and baking (6\/10). Scores are our own 1 to 10 ratings; 8 and up makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDeer\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eA deer favorite. Fence it or cage it.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat you get\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBare root, 6-7 ft or 3-4 ft or 5-7 ft. Shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring, roots wrapped in moist sawdust. Guaranteed to bud out.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"259\" data-end=\"273\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"274\" data-end=\"810\"\u003eLodi is an early-season apple similar in many ways to its dominant parent, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/yellow-transparent\"\u003eYellow Transparent\u003c\/a\u003e, and is best known as an early cooking and sauce apple, though it can also be eaten fresh if you appreciate a sharper early apple. We prefer Lodi as a substitute for Yellow Transparent due to its improved resistance to fire blight (as observed in Montana).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"812\" data-end=\"837\"\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Parentage\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"838\" data-end=\"1204\"\u003eLodi originated from a controlled cross of Yellow Transparent × Montgomery, with Yellow Transparent clearly expressing as the dominant parent. The cross was made in 1911, and the cultivar was formally introduced in 1924 by the New York State Agricultural Experiment Station. It was developed to improve on Yellow Transparent while retaining its early-season utility.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1206\" data-end=\"1232\"\u003eFruit Quality \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1233\" data-end=\"1720\"\u003eLodi produces a reliable, extra-early crop of large green to yellow-green apples with a sharp, subacid profile. It excels for cooking, applesauce, pies, and other kitchen uses where early apples are prized. While claims that Lodi produces larger, firmer, or longer-keeping fruit than the mother plant (Yellow Transparent) are difficult to validate here, its combination of disease resistance and abundant, early cooking apples makes Lodi a serious contender in northern kitchen orchards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1722\" data-end=\"1750\"\u003eGrowth Habit \u0026amp; Spacing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1751\" data-end=\"1995\"\u003eThe tree is vigorous and productive. Final spacing depends on rootstock and training system, but as a practical baseline, plan for approximately 15 ft. spacing for trees on Bud 118 rootstock (12 ft. for tighter spacing\/more pruning), and 18-20 ft. on full size rootstock (possibly even tighter with Spring and maybe some summer pruning).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1997\" data-end=\"2014\"\u003ePollination\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2015\" data-end=\"2172\"\u003eLodi is not self-fertile and requires cross-pollination from another apple variety with overlapping bloom, following standard apple pollination requirements. Consider early season apples as pollenizers, such as \u003ca href=\"\/products\/zestar-apple\"\u003eZestar\u003c\/a\u003e!, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/norda-apple\"\u003eNorda\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/norkent-apple\"\u003eNorkent\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/norson-apple\"\u003eNorson\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/carroll-apple\"\u003eCarroll\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/dearborns-unknown\"\u003eDearborn's Unknown\u003c\/a\u003e, Yellow Transparent, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/pristine\"\u003ePristine\u003c\/a\u003e, or even some of our applecrabs, such as \u003ca href=\"\/products\/martha-applecrab\"\u003eMartha\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/rescue-apple-crab\"\u003eRescue\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/kerr-crab\"\u003eKerr\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/trailman-crab\"\u003eTrailman\u003c\/a\u003e, and others.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2174\" data-end=\"2194\"\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2195\" data-end=\"2561\"\u003eLodi is hardy to \u003cstrong data-start=\"2212\" data-end=\"2221\"\u003e−45°F\u003c\/strong\u003e, according to the legendary Montana horticulturalist, pomologist, and nurseryman Roger Joy of Corvallis, Montana. While many mainstream sources list Lodi more conservatively, this firsthand regional knowledge places it among the hardiest early apples available and helps explain its long-standing reliability in cold northern climates. This also tracks given its parentage. Yellow Transparent is hardy to -50°F more, which is where it gets its hardiness. Lodi is a solid zone 2b, possibly even 2a.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-faq\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuestions we get about Lodi Apple\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes Lodi Apple need a pollenizer?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Lodi Apple needs pollen from a different variety that blooms at about the same time. Plant a different apple or crabapple variety that blooms in groups 1 to 3, such as \u003ca href=\"\/products\/norda-apple\"\u003eNorda\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/norkent-apple\"\u003eNorkent\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/products\/carroll-apple\"\u003eCarroll\u003c\/a\u003e. It has good pollen, so it can also pollenize other apples blooming at the same time. Partners we carry include \u003ca href=\"\/products\/martha-applecrab\"\u003eMartha Applecrab\u003c\/a\u003e, Norda Apple, Carroll Apple.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow cold hardy is Lodi Apple?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe rate Lodi Apple hardy to zone 2b, which means winters down to about -45°F. Our ratings come from real winters at our two Montana sites and from trusted growers across the North, not from a catalog average.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow many chill hours does Lodi Apple need?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout 1,000 hours of winter chill (we count hours at or below 45°F), likely somewhere between 700 and 1,500. Published figures for it disagree, so treat that as a middle estimate. Published figures run from 700 to 1,500 hours. Plan on about 1,000, which Montana winters easily provide. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003echill hours guide\u003c\/a\u003e has a calculator for your winters, and our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#lodi-apple\"\u003eresearch page\u003c\/a\u003e lists the sources.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhen does Lodi Apple ripen?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout Aug 7 to Aug 19 in Missoula, Montana (an estimate built from published sources and our climate). Warmer places run earlier and cooler places later; our ripening map converts the date to your town.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow big does Lodi Apple get?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe graft Lodi Apple onto Spy 227 (full size). Some sizes are on Bud 118.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat is Lodi Apple good for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur top use scores for Lodi Apple are sauce and butter (8\/10), cooking and roasting (7\/10), canning and freezing (7\/10), jams and jellies (7\/10). Anything scored 8 or higher makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWill deer eat Lodi Apple?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, deer love it. Protect Lodi Apple with a fence or a cage, especially while it is young.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Spy 227 Full Size: 6-7 ft. (One Year Older) Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping","offer_id":42500854218818,"sku":null,"price":94.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bud 118 Semi-Dwarf: 3-4 ft. (One Year Older)","offer_id":42500854317122,"sku":null,"price":54.99,"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":45133901725762,"sku":null,"price":89.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/lodi-apple-on-tree.jpg?v=1789020421"},{"product_id":"williams-pride-apple","title":"William's Pride Apple (Spring 2027)","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"mft-facts\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a glance:\u003c\/strong\u003e William's Pride Apple is an apple tree rated hardy to zone 3b in our ratings (winters to -35°F), not self-fertile, so it needs a different variety nearby as a pollenizer (bloom group 2 of 7, early for an apple or crabapple), and it ripens about Aug 14 to Aug 28 in Missoula (our Missoula estimate).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"mft-facts-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHardy to\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eZone 3b to 9. The b means the warmer half of zone 3 only (winters to -35°F). Find your zone with our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/cold-hardiness-calculator\"\u003ecold hardiness calculator\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"mft-chill\"\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eChill hours\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout 400 hours (300 to 800). From published figures. Montana winters give it plenty. In milder climates, make sure your winters average at least this much. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003eCheck your chill hours\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#williams-pride-apple\"\u003esee our sources\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePollination\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNeeds Cross-Pollination. Bloom group 2 of 7 (early), late spring here. Plant a different apple or crabapple variety that blooms in groups 1 to 3. Its bloom lasts a long time, so it often overlaps mid-season apples too, but its pollen quality isn't confirmed yet. Good partners we carry: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/dolgo-crabapple-bundle-of-2\"\u003eDolgo Crabapple (Bundle of 2)\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/chestnut-crabapple\"\u003eChestnut Applecrab\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/crimson-beauty-apple\"\u003eCrimson Beauty Apple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/lodi-apple\"\u003eLodi Apple\u003c\/a\u003e and 42 more. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/apple-pollination-map\"\u003eApple Pollination Map\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRipens\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout Aug 14 to Aug 28 in Missoula (a Missoula estimate from published sources). Real years swing about a week either way. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/ripening-map\"\u003eSee the date for your town\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRootstock and size\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBud 118: semi-dwarf in our dry Montana soils, semi-standard on paper, about 12 to 18 ft tall unpruned. Stands on its own, few suckers. Plant 14 to 18 ft apart. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/rootstocks\"\u003eOur rootstock guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGood for\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFresh eating (8\/10), drying (7\/10), sauce and butter (6\/10), cooking and roasting (6\/10). Scores are our own 1 to 10 ratings; 8 and up makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDeer\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eA deer favorite. Fence it or cage it.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat you get\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBare root, 4-6 ft. Shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring, roots wrapped in moist sawdust. Guaranteed to bud out.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"3119\" data-end=\"3133\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3134\" data-end=\"3610\"\u003eWilliam’s Pride is an early-season apple from the PRI (Purdue–Rutgers–Illinois) disease-resistant breeding program, grown for its combination of attractive dark red fruit, crisp texture for an early apple, and unusually strong disease resistance compared with many classic summer varieties. Reliable choice for growers who a quality fresh eating apple in regions where apple scab and rust pressure can be an ongoing issue.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"3612\" data-end=\"3684\"\u003eOrigin \u0026amp; History\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3685\" data-end=\"3991\"\u003eWilliams’ Pride was developed through the PRI cooperative apple breeding program and was released in 1988. Its reported parentage is PRI 1018-101 × NJ 50. It was selected as part of a long-running effort to combine good fresh-eating quality with durable disease resistance, particularly against apple scab.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"3993\" data-end=\"4011\"\u003eFruit \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4012\" data-end=\"4432\"\u003eWilliams’ Pride typically produces medium to medium-large apples with a deep red to purplish-red skin and cream-colored flesh. It ripens early (often in late July to early August in many growing regions), offering crisp, juicy fruit at a time when many early apples are softer or less complex. It’s best used for fresh eating, but it also performs well for baking and general kitchen use when harvested at peak maturity. One thing we have observed growing William's Pride in MT is that it keeps surprisingly well for an early apple. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"4434\" data-end=\"4452\"\u003eGrowth Habit\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4453\" data-end=\"4844\"\u003eThe tree is vigorous, sturdy, and spreading with good branch structure. It tends to be a dependable grower for us in Missoula when trained and pruned like a standard dessert apple. Actually has a relatively extended bloom window compared with many early apples, which can help pollination and can sometimes improve odds of setting a crop in years with uneven spring weather.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"4846\" data-end=\"4859\"\u003eSpacing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4860\" data-end=\"5280\"\u003eOn Bud 118, a practical spacing range is 14–18 feet between trees, depending on how hard you plan to prune for size control and how vigorous your site is. In richer soils or irrigated ground, wider spacing reduces shading and improves airflow; in leaner soils with consistent pruning, spacing can be somewhat tighter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"5282\" data-end=\"5299\"\u003ePollination\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5300\" data-end=\"5855\"\u003eShould be planted with another apple or crabapple that blooms at the same time to ensure consistent fruit set. Examples of what to plant with William's Pride include \u003ca href=\"\/products\/pristine\"\u003ePristine\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/honeycrisp\"\u003eHoneycrisp\u003c\/a\u003e, all of our applecrabs, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/dolgo-crabapple-bundle-of-2\"\u003eDolgo\u003c\/a\u003e, Dearbron's Unknown, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/prairie-sensation-apple\"\u003ePrairie Sensation\u003c\/a\u003e, McIntosh, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/yellow-transparent\"\u003eYellow Transparent\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/zestar-apple\"\u003eZestar\u003c\/a\u003e!, and many others.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"5857\" data-end=\"5877\"\u003eCold hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5878\" data-end=\"6620\"\u003eRod McIver's William's Pride in Kalispell came through the 1\/13\/24 arctic cold event, which saw -35°F, without winter injury. However, -35°F does not prove -40°F (or more) survival, and we do not yet have direct evidence of Williams’ Pride enduring -40°F. For that reason, we recommend it broadly for much of Western Montana, but for colder parts of Eastern Montana that can genuinely reach the -40°Fs, we recommend prioritizing apples with documented survival deeper into this range unless you are in one of the warmer eastern MT microclimates (such as Billings and the surrounding warmer valleys). Zone 3b.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"6622\" data-end=\"6639\"\u003eOther Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"6640\" data-end=\"7248\"\u003eWilliams’ Pride is scab-immune (or field-immune) and is resistant to cedar apple rust and powdery mildew, with resistance to fire blight often noted as well. As with any apple, resistance does not mean invincibility—especially for fire blight under high pressure—so good pruning practices, airflow, and balanced fertility still matter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:12px;color:#777;margin-top:24px\"\u003ePhotos: “Starr-201126-8570-Malus pumila-Williams Pride fruit mostly pau but few small ones left-Hawea Pl Olinda-Maui (50859499313)” by Forest and Kim Starr, via \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Starr-201126-8570-Malus_pumila-Williams_Pride_fruit_mostly_pau_but_few_small_ones_left-Hawea_Pl_Olinda-Maui_(50859499313).jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/a\u003e, licensed \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eCC BY 2.0\u003c\/a\u003e; “Starr-170909-0072-Malus pumila-Williams Pride flowers-Hawea Pl Olinda-Maui - Flickr - Starr Environmental” by Forest and Kim Starr, via \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Starr-170909-0072-Malus_pumila-Williams_Pride_flowers-Hawea_Pl_Olinda-Maui_-_Flickr_-_Starr_Environmental.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/a\u003e, licensed \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eCC BY 2.0\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-faq\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuestions we get about William's Pride Apple\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes William's Pride Apple need a pollenizer?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. William's Pride Apple needs pollen from a different variety that blooms at about the same time. Plant a different apple or crabapple variety that blooms in groups 1 to 3. Its bloom lasts a long time, so it often overlaps mid-season apples too, but its pollen quality isn't confirmed yet. Partners we carry include \u003ca href=\"\/products\/dolgo-crabapple-bundle-of-2\"\u003eDolgo Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e (Bundle of 2), \u003ca href=\"\/products\/chestnut-crabapple\"\u003eChestnut Applecrab\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/crimson-beauty-apple\"\u003eCrimson Beauty Apple\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow cold hardy is William's Pride Apple?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe rate William's Pride Apple hardy to zone 3b, which means winters down to about -35°F. Our ratings come from real winters at our two Montana sites and from trusted growers across the North, not from a catalog average.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow many chill hours does William's Pride Apple need?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout 400 hours of winter chill (we count hours at or below 45°F), likely somewhere between 300 and 800. That comes from published figures for this variety. Listed at only 300 to 400 hours, unusually low for an apple. It blooms early, so frost is the bigger risk here. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003echill hours guide\u003c\/a\u003e has a calculator for your winters, and our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#williams-pride-apple\"\u003eresearch page\u003c\/a\u003e lists the sources.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhen does William's Pride Apple ripen?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout Aug 14 to Aug 28 in Missoula, Montana (an estimate built from published sources and our climate). Warmer places run earlier and cooler places later; our ripening map converts the date to your town.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow big does William's Pride Apple get?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe graft William's Pride Apple onto Bud 118 (semi-dwarf in our dry Montana soils, semi-standard on paper), which makes a tree roughly 12 to 18 ft tall if you never prune it. Plant 14 to 18 ft apart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat is William's Pride Apple good for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur top use scores for William's Pride Apple are fresh eating (8\/10), drying (7\/10), sauce and butter (6\/10), cooking and roasting (6\/10). Anything scored 8 or higher makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWill deer eat William's Pride Apple?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, deer love it. Protect William's Pride Apple with a fence or a cage, especially while it is young.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\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":42511538651202,"sku":null,"price":74.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/williams-pride-apples-on-tree.jpg?v=1791616154"},{"product_id":"invicta-gooseberry","title":"Invicta Gooseberry (Bundle of 2) | Spring 2027","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"mft-facts\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a glance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Invicta Gooseberry is a gooseberry shrub rated hardy to zone 3 in our ratings (winters to -40°F), self-fertile, so one plant can crop, and it ripens about Jul 9 to Jul 19 in Missoula (picked and dated at our place in Missoula).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"mft-facts-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHardy to\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eZone 3 to 8. A bare number means the whole of zone 3, colder half included (winters to -40°F). Find your zone with our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/cold-hardiness-calculator\"\u003ecold hardiness calculator\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"mft-chill\"\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eChill hours\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout 1,200 hours (900 to 2,200). Our estimate. No published figure exists for this variety yet. Montana winters give it plenty. In milder climates, make sure your winters average at least this much. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003eCheck your chill hours\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#invicta-gooseberry\"\u003esee our sources\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePollination\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSelf-Fertile. Bloom group 3 of 7 (early-mid), very early spring here. Invicta sets fruit on its own, so one plant will crop. A second gooseberry variety nearby can give larger fruit set. Bloom group is our estimate from the variety's origin and relatives. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/currant-gooseberry-pollination-chart\"\u003eCurrant \u0026amp; Gooseberry Pollination Chart\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRipens\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout Jul 9 to Jul 19 in Missoula (picked and dated off our own trees). Real years swing about a week either way. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/ripening-map\"\u003eSee the date for your town\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGood for\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePies and baking (8\/10), sauce and butter (8\/10), jams and jellies (8\/10), cooking and roasting (8\/10), canning and freezing (7\/10), fresh eating (6\/10). Scores are our own 1 to 10 ratings; 8 and up makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDeer\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRarely bothered by deer.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat you get\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBare root, 6-18\" 3rd Year Plants. Shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring, roots wrapped in moist sawdust. Guaranteed to bud out.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInvicta Gooseberry (often sold as Malling Invicta) is a European gooseberry selected for high productivity, large green fruit, and strong disease resistance—especially against powdery mildew. From the research available, it traces back to breeding work in England (East Malling), where it entered cultivation as part of modern gooseberry improvement efforts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom published germplasm and pomology references, Invicta is described as coming from East Malling breeding in England and is associated with a multi-parent background that includes classic gooseberry lines such as Resistenta, Whinham’s Industry, and Keepsake.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFruit Quality \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInvicta is known for very high yields of large fruit (which is large for a gooseberry!) and a flavor that works well both fresh and processed. We've had consistent crops every year in Missoula. It's excellent when fully ripe and the fruit come on around Mid-July here in Missoula. It also excels for pies, jams, sauces, and other cooked uses where gooseberries really shine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor an “absolute extreme winter low” figure for what Invicta has survived down to, the most explicit cultivar-specific claim we found repeatedly in nursery cultivar specs is that Invicta is hardy to about \u003cstrong\u003e−40°F\u003c\/strong\u003e, which corresponds to a solid \u003cstrong\u003eZone 3\u003c\/strong\u003e shrub in practical planning terms. That said, it may be even hardier than this, but we don't exactly know. Invicta will therefore work in most of Western Montana. As it goes for the Eastern part of the state, it is likely that Invicta would survive most areas, but still plant in areas free of frost pooling (up on a bench and certainly out of depressions or lower elevation sites on your property).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOther Notable Characteristics\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInvicta is vigorous and thorny, and it’s often recommended for training\/trellising and regular pruning to keep picking manageable and improve airflow. Its heavy bearing tendency and mildew resistance are big reasons it became so widely planted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShrubs are 6-18\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"border:1px solid #cfcfcf;border-left:4px solid #8a1c1c;background:#faf7f6;padding:14px 18px;margin-top:28px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0 0 10px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShipping restrictions: white pine blister rust quarantine\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0 0 10px;\"\u003eGooseberries and currants (\u003cem\u003eRibes\u003c\/em\u003e species) are alternate hosts for white pine blister rust. We \u003cstrong\u003ecannot ship this plant to New Hampshire or North Carolina\u003c\/strong\u003e, where its sale or importation is prohibited by state law. North Carolina prohibits all \u003cem\u003eRibes\u003c\/em\u003e statewide; New Hampshire permits only a short list of named rust-resistant cultivars, which does not include this variety.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0 0 10px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePermit or county-level restrictions also apply in:\u003c\/strong\u003e Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and West Virginia (prohibited in specific counties or townships) and Delaware, Michigan, and Rhode Island (state permit required). Please check your local rules before ordering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0;font-size:0.9em;color:#555;\"\u003eOrders placed to a prohibited state will be cancelled and refunded.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-faq\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuestions we get about Invicta Gooseberry\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes Invicta Gooseberry need a pollenizer?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. Invicta Gooseberry is self-fertile, so a single tree can set fruit. Invicta sets fruit on its own, so one plant will crop. A second gooseberry variety nearby can give larger fruit set.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow cold hardy is Invicta Gooseberry?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe rate Invicta Gooseberry hardy to zone 3, which means winters down to about -40°F. Our ratings come from real winters at our two Montana sites and from trusted growers across the North, not from a catalog average.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow many chill hours does Invicta Gooseberry need?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout 1,200 hours of winter chill (we count hours at or below 45°F), likely somewhere between 900 and 2,200. Nobody has published a chill figure for it, so that's our estimate from its relatives and origin. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003echill hours guide\u003c\/a\u003e has a calculator for your winters, and our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#invicta-gooseberry\"\u003eresearch page\u003c\/a\u003e lists the sources.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhen does Invicta Gooseberry ripen?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout Jul 9 to Jul 19 in Missoula, Montana (picked and dated off our own trees). Warmer places run earlier and cooler places later; our ripening map converts the date to your town.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat is Invicta Gooseberry good for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur top use scores for Invicta Gooseberry are pies and baking (8\/10), sauce and butter (8\/10), jams and jellies (8\/10), cooking and roasting (8\/10). Anything scored 8 or higher makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWill deer eat Invicta Gooseberry?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRarely. Deer seldom bother Invicta Gooseberry, though a hungry winter deer will try almost anything.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat arrives, and when does Invicta Gooseberry ship?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA dormant bare-root plant, roots wrapped in moist sawdust with a vapor barrier, shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring. Sizes offered: 6-18\" 3rd Year Plants. We guarantee our plants bud out. Stone fruits can be slow, so if one still has not budded out by August 15, write to us and we credit you for the following spring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"6-18\" 3rd Year Plants","offer_id":42547486720066,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/invicta-gooseberry-on-bush.jpg?v=1789020347"},{"product_id":"jahns-prairie-gooseberry","title":"Jahn's Prairie Gooseberry (Bundle of 2) | Spring 2027","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"mft-facts\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a glance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Jahn's Prairie Gooseberry is a gooseberry shrub rated hardy to zone 3 in our ratings (winters to -40°F), and self-fertile, so one plant can crop.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"mft-facts-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHardy to\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eZone 3 to 7. A bare number means the whole of zone 3, colder half included (winters to -40°F). Find your zone with our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/cold-hardiness-calculator\"\u003ecold hardiness calculator\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"mft-chill\"\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eChill hours\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout 1,000 hours (700 to 1,500). Our estimate. No published figure exists for this variety yet. Montana winters give it plenty. In milder climates, make sure your winters average at least this much. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003eCheck your chill hours\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#jahns-prairie-gooseberry\"\u003esee our sources\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePollination\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSelf-Fertile. Bloom group 3 of 7 (early-mid), very early spring here. Gooseberries set fruit on their own, so one plant will crop. A second gooseberry variety nearby can help fruit size. Bloom group is our estimate from the variety's origin and relatives. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/currant-gooseberry-pollination-chart\"\u003eCurrant \u0026amp; Gooseberry Pollination Chart\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSpacing\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePlant 3 to 4 ft apart.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGood for\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFresh eating (8\/10), pies and baking (7\/10), jams and jellies (7\/10), canning and freezing (6\/10). Scores are our own 1 to 10 ratings; 8 and up makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDeer\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRarely bothered by deer.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat you get\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBare root, 1-2 ft. Shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring, roots wrapped in moist sawdust. Guaranteed to bud out.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eNOTE: One of our newer gooseberries so this information is all second hand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJahn’s Prairie Gooseberry is a cold-climate gooseberry selection collected from the wild in Alberta, Canada (often attributed to Otto L. Jahn). It’s widely described as a vigorous, upright, high-yielding plant with very good disease resistance, making it a dependable choice for growers who want a tough, productive gooseberry without fuss.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFruit Quality \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJahn’s Prairie produces large, reddish-pink to dark pink berries with a sweet-tart flavor. From what is commonly reported, it’s good fresh when fully ripe and especially well suited for pies, jams, sauces, and other preserves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowth Habit \u0026amp; Spacing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlants are generally described as compact to moderately sized, often around 2–4 feet tall and about as wide, with an upright habit compared to many gooseberries. A practical spacing is about 3–4 feet between plants (wider if you want easier picking access and airflow). Thorns are present, so spacing that allows you to work around the shrub comfortably is worthwhile.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAcross multiple nursery and grower references, the most specific and repeatedly stated mid-winter minimum is that Jahn’s Prairie (and gooseberries generally) are hardy to about −40°F. This aligns with consistent Zone 3 placement. In other words, based on the most explicit claims available online, −40°F is the best-supported “survive down to” figure for mid-winter extremes. That said, it may be even hardier than this, but we don't exactly know. Jahn's Prairie will therefore work in most of Western Montana. As it goes for the Eastern part of the state, it is likely that Jahn's Prairie would survive most areas (certainly near Billings and the surrounding warmer valleys), but still plant in areas free of frost pooling (up on a bench and certainly out of depressions or lower elevation sites on your property).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOther Notable Characteristics\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJahn’s Prairie is frequently highlighted for strong no-spray viability, good mildew resistance, and reliable annual crops. It also tolerates partial shade better than many fruiting shrubs, though best yields still come with good light and decent airflow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShrubs are currently 1-2 ft. tall\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"border:1px solid #cfcfcf;border-left:4px solid #8a1c1c;background:#faf7f6;padding:14px 18px;margin-top:28px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0 0 10px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShipping restrictions: white pine blister rust quarantine\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0 0 10px;\"\u003eGooseberries and currants (\u003cem\u003eRibes\u003c\/em\u003e species) are alternate hosts for white pine blister rust. We \u003cstrong\u003ecannot ship this plant to North Carolina\u003c\/strong\u003e, which prohibits all \u003cem\u003eRibes\u003c\/em\u003e statewide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0 0 10px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePermit or county-level restrictions also apply in:\u003c\/strong\u003e New Hampshire, where ‘Jahns Prairie’ is on the state’s approved rust-resistant cultivar list but still requires a permit from the Division of Forests \u0026amp; Lands before planting; Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and West Virginia (prohibited in specific counties or townships); and Delaware, Michigan, and Rhode Island (state permit required). Please check your local rules before ordering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0;font-size:0.9em;color:#555;\"\u003eOrders placed to a prohibited state will be cancelled and refunded.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-faq\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuestions we get about Jahn's Prairie Gooseberry\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes Jahn's Prairie Gooseberry need a pollenizer?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. Jahn's Prairie Gooseberry is self-fertile, so a single tree can set fruit. Gooseberries set fruit on their own, so one plant will crop. A second gooseberry variety nearby can help fruit size.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow cold hardy is Jahn's Prairie Gooseberry?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe rate Jahn's Prairie Gooseberry hardy to zone 3, which means winters down to about -40°F. Our ratings come from real winters at our two Montana sites and from trusted growers across the North, not from a catalog average.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow many chill hours does Jahn's Prairie Gooseberry need?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout 1,000 hours of winter chill (we count hours at or below 45°F), likely somewhere between 700 and 1,500. Nobody has published a chill figure for it, so that's our estimate from its relatives and origin. A wild Alberta gooseberry. Chill has never been measured, but it comes from a far colder winter than ours. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003echill hours guide\u003c\/a\u003e has a calculator for your winters, and our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#jahns-prairie-gooseberry\"\u003eresearch page\u003c\/a\u003e lists the sources.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat is Jahn's Prairie Gooseberry good for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur top use scores for Jahn's Prairie Gooseberry are fresh eating (8\/10), pies and baking (7\/10), jams and jellies (7\/10), canning and freezing (6\/10). Anything scored 8 or higher makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWill deer eat Jahn's Prairie Gooseberry?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRarely. Deer seldom bother Jahn's Prairie Gooseberry, though a hungry winter deer will try almost anything.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat arrives, and when does Jahn's Prairie Gooseberry ship?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA dormant bare-root plant, roots wrapped in moist sawdust with a vapor barrier, shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring. Sizes offered: 1-2 ft. We guarantee our plants bud out. Stone fruits can be slow, so if one still has not budded out by August 15, write to us and we credit you for the following spring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"1-2 ft.","offer_id":42547487637570,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/jahns-prairie-gooseberry-on-bush.jpg?v=1789020384"},{"product_id":"rugose-rose-bundle-of-3","title":"Rugose Rose (Bundle of 3) | Spring 2027","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"mft-facts\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a glance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Rugose Rose is a rose shrub rated hardy to zone 2 in our ratings (winters to -50°F), and self-fertile, so one plant can crop.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"mft-facts-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eAlso called\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRugosa rose, beach rose, Japanese rose (Rosa rugosa)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHardy to\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eZone 2 to 7. A bare number means the whole of zone 2, colder half included (winters to -50°F). Find your zone with our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/cold-hardiness-calculator\"\u003ecold hardiness calculator\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"mft-chill\"\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eChill hours\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout 700 hours (400 to 1,000). Our estimate. No published figure exists for this variety yet. Montana winters give it plenty. In milder climates, make sure your winters average at least this much. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003eCheck your chill hours\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#rugose-rose-bundle-of-3\"\u003esee our sources\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePollination\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSelf-Fertile. Bloom group 4 of 7 (mid), early summer here. Rugosa rose is self-fertile, so a single plant sets hips, though bees moving pollen between plants can boost the crop. Its long summer bloom feeds bees, especially bumblebees, but it is not an orchard pollenizer. Bloom group is our estimate from the variety's origin and relatives. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/pollination-charts#rugosa-rose\"\u003ePollination Charts\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGood for\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOrnamental value (8\/10), windbreaks and hedgerows (8\/10), jams and jellies (7\/10), juice and sweet cider (7\/10), pollinators (7\/10), feeding wildlife (6\/10). Scores are our own 1 to 10 ratings; 8 and up makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDeer\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSometimes damaged by deer.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat you get\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBare root, 18-24\". Shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring, roots wrapped in moist sawdust. Guaranteed to bud out.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRugosa rose (\u003cem\u003eRosa rugosa\u003c\/em\u003e) is a resilient, cold-hardy shrub rose widely used in landscapes and natural plantings for its fragrant flowers and showy rose hips.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOrigin and History\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRugosa rose is native to eastern Asia, including northeastern China, Japan, Korea, and southeastern Siberia. It was introduced to Europe and North America in the 1800s, where it became popular for ornamental plantings and coastal stabilization before naturalizing in many regions. The species name \u003cem\u003erugosa\u003c\/em\u003e refers to the wrinkled texture of the leaves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFlowers, Hips \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRugosa rose produces fragrant flowers in shades of pink to white, typically in early to mid-summer, with blooms that may continue intermittently through the season. The plant forms large, round orange-red hips in late summer and fall that are rich in vitamin C and used for making jams, jellies, syrups, and herbal teas. Birds and wildlife also feed on the hips through fall and winter. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowth Habit \u0026amp; Spacing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis species is a multi-stemmed, suckering shrub that typically reaches 4–6 feet tall and wide. It spreads by suckers to form dense thickets if not managed, making it useful for hedges, windbreaks, erosion control, and wildlife habitat. Rugosa rose is tolerant of a wide range of soils, including sandy, clay, and poor soils, and is also salt-spray and drought tolerant once established.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePollination\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRugosa rose blooms are insect-pollinated and the species is generally considered self-fertile, meaning a single plant can set hips on its own. Cross-pollination with other roses may increase hip set and diversity of seed, but is not required for fruit production.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRugosa rose is exceptionally cold-hardy for a woody ornamental. and can survive well into the -40F range. Solid zone 2, even quite possibly zone 1 in a well  protected spot with good air drainage\/no frost pooling. Can grow in vast majority of Montana.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-faq\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuestions we get about Rugose Rose\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes Rugose Rose need a pollenizer?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. Rugose Rose is self-fertile, so a single tree can set fruit. Rugosa rose is self-fertile, so a single plant sets hips, though bees moving pollen between plants can boost the crop. Its long summer bloom feeds bees, especially bumblebees, but it is not an orchard pollenizer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow cold hardy is Rugose Rose?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe rate Rugose Rose hardy to zone 2, which means winters down to about -50°F. Our ratings come from real winters at our two Montana sites and from trusted growers across the North, not from a catalog average.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow many chill hours does Rugose Rose need?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout 700 hours of winter chill (we count hours at or below 45°F), likely somewhere between 400 and 1,000. Nobody has published a chill figure for it, so that's our estimate from its relatives and origin. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003echill hours guide\u003c\/a\u003e has a calculator for your winters, and our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#rugose-rose-bundle-of-3\"\u003eresearch page\u003c\/a\u003e lists the sources.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat is Rugose Rose good for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur top use scores for Rugose Rose are ornamental value (8\/10), windbreaks and hedgerows (8\/10), jams and jellies (7\/10), juice and sweet cider (7\/10). Anything scored 8 or higher makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWill deer eat Rugose Rose?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSometimes. Deer browse Rugose Rose now and then, so protect young plants where deer pressure is high.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat arrives, and when does Rugose Rose ship?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA dormant bare-root plant, roots wrapped in moist sawdust with a vapor barrier, shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring. Sizes offered: 18-24\". We guarantee our plants bud out. Stone fruits can be slow, so if one still has not budded out by August 15, write to us and we credit you for the following spring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"18-24\"","offer_id":42535402045506,"sku":null,"price":74.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/rugose-rose-flowers.jpg?v=1789021038"},{"product_id":"sabrevois-grape-bundle-of-2","title":"Sabrevois Grape (Bundle of 2) | Spring 2027","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"mft-facts\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a glance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sabrevois Grape is a grape vine rated hardy to zone 3 in our ratings (winters to -40°F), and self-fertile, so one plant can crop.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"mft-facts-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHardy to\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eZone 3 to 8. A bare number means the whole of zone 3, colder half included (winters to -40°F). Find your zone with our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/cold-hardiness-calculator\"\u003ecold hardiness calculator\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"mft-chill\"\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eChill hours\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout 500 hours (350 to 750). Our estimate. No published figure exists for this variety yet. Montana winters give it plenty. In milder climates, make sure your winters average at least this much. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003eCheck your chill hours\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#sabrevois-grape-bundle-of-2\"\u003esee our sources\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePollination\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSelf-Fertile. Bloom group 4 of 7 (mid), late spring to early summer here. Sabrevois has perfect flowers and sets fruit on its own, so one variety is enough. Grapes bloom in June, well after tree fruit. Bloom group is our estimate from the variety's origin and relatives. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/grape-pollination-chart\"\u003eGrape Pollination Chart\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSpacing\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePlant 6 to 8 ft apart.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGood for\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWine (6\/10). Scores are our own 1 to 10 ratings; 8 and up makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDeer\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eA deer favorite. Fence it or cage it.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat you get\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBare root. Shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring, roots wrapped in moist sawdust. Guaranteed to bud out.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSabrevois is a very cold-hardy red wine grape developed for northern climates, known for its deep color, good structure, and ability to survive winters that routinely damage or kill less hardy grapes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOrigin and History\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSabrevois was bred by Elmer Swenson in Wisconsin as part of his long-running effort to develop grapes capable of withstanding Upper Midwest winters while still producing serious wine. It is a complex hybrid with strong \u003cem\u003eVitis riparia\u003c\/em\u003e influence, which accounts for much of its winter hardiness, paired with other grape genetics selected for wine quality rather than table use. Sabrevois has been grown commercially and experimentally across cold regions of the northern U.S. and southern Canada and is generally regarded as one of Swenson’s more cold-resilient red wine selections.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFruit \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClusters are small to medium with dark blue to black berries and very deeply pigmented juice. Sabrevois is used almost exclusively as a red wine grape. Wines tend to show deep color, moderate tannin, and flavors that lean toward dark cherry, berry, and earthy or spicy notes. It is commonly used either as a varietal in cold climates or as a blending grape to add color and backbone to lighter reds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowth Habit \u0026amp; Spacing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVines are moderately to strongly vigorous and adapt well to upright training systems such as high cordon or vertical shoot positioning. Typical spacing is in the range of 6–8 feet between vines with 8–10 feet between rows, adjusted for soil fertility and management intensity. As with most vigorous cold-climate hybrids, consistent pruning is important to balance vegetative growth and fruit quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePollination\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSabrevois has self-fertile flowers, so it does not require another grape variety for pollination. A single vine can set fruit on its own, though multiple vines are usually planted for yield consistency and winemaking practicality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSabrevois was one of the first grapes we evaluated back in 2015 when we visited Wes Burnam’s vineyard in Kalispell, Montana, and those vines were undamaged after a winter low of approximately -35°F.  Not as cold hardy as \u003ca href=\"\/products\/valiant-grape\"\u003eValiant\u003c\/a\u003e, but a solid zone 3 grape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs with all grapes, survival at those extremes depends heavily on vine health, snow cover, acclimation, and good site selection with airflow rather than cold pooling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-faq\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuestions we get about Sabrevois Grape\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes Sabrevois Grape need a pollenizer?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. Sabrevois Grape is self-fertile, so a single tree can set fruit. Sabrevois has perfect flowers and sets fruit on its own, so one variety is enough. Grapes bloom in June, well after tree fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow cold hardy is Sabrevois Grape?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe rate Sabrevois Grape hardy to zone 3, which means winters down to about -40°F. Our ratings come from real winters at our two Montana sites and from trusted growers across the North, not from a catalog average.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow many chill hours does Sabrevois Grape need?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout 500 hours of winter chill (we count hours at or below 45°F), likely somewhere between 350 and 750. Nobody has published a chill figure for it, so that's our estimate from its relatives and origin. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003echill hours guide\u003c\/a\u003e has a calculator for your winters, and our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#sabrevois-grape-bundle-of-2\"\u003eresearch page\u003c\/a\u003e lists the sources.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat is Sabrevois Grape good for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur top use scores for Sabrevois Grape are wine (6\/10).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWill deer eat Sabrevois Grape?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, deer love it. Protect Sabrevois Grape with a fence or a cage, especially while it is young.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat arrives, and when does Sabrevois Grape ship?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA dormant bare-root plant, roots wrapped in moist sawdust with a vapor barrier, shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring. We guarantee our plants bud out. Stone fruits can be slow, so if one still has not budded out by August 15, write to us and we credit you for the following spring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42538653974594,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/sabrevois-grape-on-vine.jpg?v=1789021038"},{"product_id":"nova-easygro-apple","title":"Nova Easygro Apple (Spring 2027)","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"mft-facts\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a glance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Nova Easygro Apple is an apple tree rated hardy to zone 3b in our ratings (winters to -35°F), not self-fertile, so it needs a different variety nearby as a pollenizer (bloom group 4 of 7, mid for an apple or crabapple), and it ripens about Sep 15 to Sep 29 in Missoula (our Missoula estimate).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"mft-facts-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHardy to\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eZone 3b to 8. The b means the warmer half of zone 3 only (winters to -35°F). Find your zone with our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/cold-hardiness-calculator\"\u003ecold hardiness calculator\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"mft-chill\"\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eChill hours\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout 1,000 hours (850 to 1,200). Our estimate. No published figure exists for this variety yet. Montana winters give it plenty. In milder climates, make sure your winters average at least this much. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003eCheck your chill hours\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#nova-easygro-apple\"\u003esee our sources\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePollination\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNeeds Cross-Pollination. Bloom group 4 of 7 (mid), late spring here. Plant a different apple or crabapple variety that blooms in groups 3 to 5. It has good pollen, so it can also pollenize other apples blooming at the same time. Good partners we carry: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/otterson-apple\"\u003eOtterson Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/trail-crabapple\"\u003eTrail Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/alexander-apple\"\u003eAlexander Apple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/burgundy-apple\"\u003eBurgundy Apple\u003c\/a\u003e and 103 more. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/apple-pollination-map\"\u003eApple Pollination Map\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRipens\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout Sep 15 to Sep 29 in Missoula (a Missoula estimate from published sources). Real years swing about a week either way. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/ripening-map\"\u003eSee the date for your town\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRootstock and size\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBud 118: semi-dwarf in our dry Montana soils, semi-standard on paper, about 12 to 18 ft tall unpruned. Stands on its own, few suckers. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/rootstocks\"\u003eOur rootstock guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDeer\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eA deer favorite. Fence it or cage it.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat you get\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBare root, 3-5 ft or 4-6 ft. Shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring, roots wrapped in moist sawdust. Guaranteed to bud out.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBud 118 Semi-Dwarf: 5-7 ft. (Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:12px;color:#777;margin-top:24px\"\u003ePhoto credit: Color corrected from “Nova Easigro on tree” by the National Fruit Collection, Brogdale, via \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Nova_Easigro_on_tree,_National_Fruit_Collection_(acc._1974-269).jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/a\u003e, licensed under the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.nationalarchives.gov.uk\/doc\/open-government-licence\/version\/2\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eOpen Government Licence v2.0\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:12px;color:#777;margin-top:24px\"\u003eAbout the photo: this isn’t Nova Easygro itself. Photos of Nova Easygro are either under copyright or simply unavailable, so we picked the open-source image that looks closest to the fruit. Photo: “2021-09-26 11 53 45 A ripe apple on an apple tree along New Jersey State Route 35 (Saint Georges Avenue) at U.S. Route 1 and U.S. Route 9 in Woodbridge Township, Middlesex County, New Jersey” by Famartin, via \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:2021-09-26_11_53_45_A_ripe_apple_on_an_apple_tree_along_New_Jersey_State_Route_35_(Saint_Georges_Avenue)_at_U.S._Route_1_and_U.S._Route_9_in_Woodbridge_Township,_Middlesex_County,_New_Jersey.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/a\u003e, licensed \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/4.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eCC BY-SA 4.0\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-faq\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuestions we get about Nova Easygro Apple\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes Nova Easygro Apple need a pollenizer?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Nova Easygro Apple needs pollen from a different variety that blooms at about the same time. Plant a different apple or crabapple variety that blooms in groups 3 to 5. It has good pollen, so it can also pollenize other apples blooming at the same time. Partners we carry include \u003ca href=\"\/products\/otterson-apple\"\u003eOtterson Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/trail-crabapple\"\u003eTrail Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/alexander-apple\"\u003eAlexander Apple\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow cold hardy is Nova Easygro Apple?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe rate Nova Easygro Apple hardy to zone 3b, which means winters down to about -35°F. Our ratings come from real winters at our two Montana sites and from trusted growers across the North, not from a catalog average.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow many chill hours does Nova Easygro Apple need?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout 1,000 hours of winter chill (we count hours at or below 45°F), likely somewhere between 850 and 1,200. Nobody has published a chill figure for it, so that's our estimate from its relatives and origin. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003echill hours guide\u003c\/a\u003e has a calculator for your winters, and our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#nova-easygro-apple\"\u003eresearch page\u003c\/a\u003e lists the sources.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhen does Nova Easygro Apple ripen?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout Sep 15 to Sep 29 in Missoula, Montana (an estimate built from published sources and our climate). Warmer places run earlier and cooler places later; our ripening map converts the date to your town.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow big does Nova Easygro Apple get?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe graft Nova Easygro Apple onto Bud 118 (semi-dwarf in our dry Montana soils, semi-standard on paper), which makes a tree roughly 12 to 18 ft tall if you never prune it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWill deer eat Nova Easygro Apple?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, deer love it. Protect Nova Easygro Apple with a fence or a cage, especially while it is young.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat arrives, and when does Nova Easygro Apple ship?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA dormant bare-root plant, roots wrapped in moist sawdust with a vapor barrier, shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring. Sizes offered: 3-5 ft or 4-6 ft. We guarantee our plants bud out. Stone fruits can be slow, so if one still has not budded out by August 15, write to us and we credit you for the following spring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Bud 118 Semi-Dwarf: 3-5 ft.","offer_id":45156154867778,"sku":null,"price":49.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bud 118 Semi-Dwarf: 4-6 ft. (Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping)","offer_id":45156154900546,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/ripe-red-apple-on-tree-representative.jpg?v=1791615730"},{"product_id":"st-edmunds-pippin-apple","title":"St. Edmund's Pippin Apple (Spring 2027)","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"mft-facts\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a glance:\u003c\/strong\u003e St. Edmund's Pippin Apple is an apple tree we've deliberately listed at zone 5 (winters to -20°F), and not self-fertile, so it needs a different variety nearby as a pollenizer (bloom group 2 of 7, early for an apple or crabapple).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"mft-facts-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHardy to\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eZone 5 to 9. A bare number means the whole of zone 5, colder half included (winters to -20°F). Find your zone with our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/cold-hardiness-calculator\"\u003ecold hardiness calculator\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"mft-chill\"\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eChill hours\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout 700 hours (600 to 900). Well documented. Independent sources agree. Montana winters give it plenty. In milder climates, make sure your winters average at least this much. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003eCheck your chill hours\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#st-edmunds-pippin-apple\"\u003esee our sources\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePollination\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNeeds Cross-Pollination. Bloom group 2 of 7 (early), late spring here. Plant a different apple or crabapple variety that blooms in groups 1 to 3. Its pollen quality isn't confirmed yet, so don't count on it as the only pollenizer for another tree. Good partners we carry: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/dolgo-crabapple-bundle-of-2\"\u003eDolgo Crabapple (Bundle of 2)\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/chestnut-crabapple\"\u003eChestnut Applecrab\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/crimson-beauty-apple\"\u003eCrimson Beauty Apple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/lodi-apple\"\u003eLodi Apple\u003c\/a\u003e and 42 more. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/apple-pollination-map\"\u003eApple Pollination Map\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRootstock and size\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBud 118: semi-dwarf in our dry Montana soils, semi-standard on paper, about 12 to 18 ft tall unpruned. Stands on its own, few suckers. Plant about 15 ft apart. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/rootstocks\"\u003eOur rootstock guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGood for\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFresh eating (8\/10), hard cider (7\/10), juice and sweet cider (7\/10). Scores are our 1 to 10 ratings, but we're still new to this one, so they lean on English references and other growers rather than our own harvests. 8 and up makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDeer\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eA deer favorite. Fence it or cage it.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat you get\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBare root, 3-4 ft or 4-6 ft. Shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring, roots wrapped in moist sawdust. Guaranteed to bud out.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eFirst year for us, so this comes from English references and from growers with more time on it than we have.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSt. Edmund's Pippin is a small golden russet with a reputation among cider and juice people as one of the best apples in England for pressing. It is also excellent straight off the tree, which is less common than you would think among russets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOrigin and History\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt was raised at Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk, England, around 1870, and it is sometimes listed as St. Edmund's Russet. It picked up a first class certificate from the Royal Horticultural Society not long after and has been a favorite of English garden orchardists ever since.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFruit and Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSmall to medium, flattish, with a dull gold skin covered in fine russet. The flesh is creamy white, fine textured and remarkably juicy for a russet, with a rich flavor people usually describe as pear-like or vanilla. It is an early season apple, ready around late August into September, and it does not keep long, so eat it or press it. The juice is exceptional.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowth Habit and Spacing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn Bud 118 semi-dwarf rootstock. Plan on about 15 feet between trees, up to 18 feet for airflow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePollination\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt needs a pollenizer and blooms early, so pair it with another early bloomer. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/chestnut-crabapple\"\u003eChestnut\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/centennial-apple-crab\"\u003eCentennial\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/norland-apple\"\u003eNorland\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/crimson-beauty-apple\"\u003eCrimson Beauty\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/dolgo-crabapple-bundle-of-2\"\u003eDolgo\u003c\/a\u003e all overlap.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere is the honest part. We have this one listed at zone 5, which is the warmest rating in our whole catalog, and that is deliberate. This is an English apple from a mild maritime climate with no track record in hard cold. If you are in Missoula, the Bitterroot, the Flathead or a warm bench site, it is worth a try. If you are east of the divide or in a valley that pools frost, plant something else.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:12px;color:#777;margin-top:24px\"\u003eIllustration: “St. Edmunds Pippin” by Amanda Newton, USDA Pomological Watercolor Collection, Rare and Special Collections, National Agricultural Library (\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/hdl.handle.net\/10113\/POM00003241\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003ePOM00003241\u003c\/a\u003e). Public domain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:12px;color:#777;margin-top:24px\"\u003eAbout the photo: this isn’t St. Edmund's Pippin itself. Photos of St. Edmund's Pippin are either under copyright or simply unavailable, so we picked the open-source image that looks closest to the fruit. Photo: “Russet apples (15163043718)” by grassrootsgroundswell, via \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Russet_apples_(15163043718).jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/a\u003e, licensed \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eCC BY 2.0\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-faq\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuestions we get about St. Edmund's Pippin Apple\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes St. Edmund's Pippin Apple need a pollenizer?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. St. Edmund's Pippin Apple needs pollen from a different variety that blooms at about the same time. Plant a different apple or crabapple variety that blooms in groups 1 to 3. Its pollen quality isn't confirmed yet, so don't count on it as the only pollenizer for another tree. Partners we carry include \u003ca href=\"\/products\/dolgo-crabapple-bundle-of-2\"\u003eDolgo Crabapple\u003c\/a\u003e (Bundle of 2), \u003ca href=\"\/products\/chestnut-crabapple\"\u003eChestnut Applecrab\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/crimson-beauty-apple\"\u003eCrimson Beauty Apple\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow cold hardy is St. Edmund's Pippin Apple?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe list St. Edmund's Pippin Apple at zone 5, which means winters down to about -20°F. That's deliberate. It's an English apple from a mild maritime climate with no track record in hard cold, and we haven't wintered our own trees yet. It's worth a try in Missoula, the Bitterroot, the Flathead or a warm bench site, but not east of the divide or anywhere frost pools.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow many chill hours does St. Edmund's Pippin Apple need?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout 700 hours of winter chill (we count hours at or below 45°F), likely somewhere between 600 and 900. That figure is well documented: independent sources agree. A fairly low-chill russet (about 700 hours). It blooms early, so give it an early-blooming partner. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003echill hours guide\u003c\/a\u003e has a calculator for your winters, and our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#st-edmunds-pippin-apple\"\u003eresearch page\u003c\/a\u003e lists the sources.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow big does St. Edmund's Pippin Apple get?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe graft St. Edmund's Pippin Apple onto Bud 118 (semi-dwarf in our dry Montana soils, semi-standard on paper), which makes a tree roughly 12 to 18 ft tall if you never prune it. Plant about 15 ft apart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat is St. Edmund's Pippin Apple good for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur top use scores for St. Edmund's Pippin Apple are fresh eating (8\/10), hard cider (7\/10), juice and sweet cider (7\/10). Since we're still new to it, those scores lean on English references rather than our own harvests. Anything scored 8 or higher makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWill deer eat St. Edmund's Pippin Apple?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, deer love it. Protect St. Edmund's Pippin Apple with a fence or a cage, especially while it is young.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat arrives, and when does St. Edmund's Pippin Apple ship?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA dormant bare-root plant, roots wrapped in moist sawdust with a vapor barrier, shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring. Sizes offered: 3-4 ft or 4-6 ft. We guarantee our plants bud out. Stone fruits can be slow, so if one still has not budded out by August 15, write to us and we credit you for the following spring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Bud 118 Semi-Dwarf: 3-4 ft.","offer_id":45156173676610,"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":45156173709378,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/russet-apples-on-tree.jpg?v=1791616182"},{"product_id":"titania-black-currant-bundle-of-2","title":"Titania Black Currant (Bundle of 2) | Spring 2027","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"mft-facts\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a glance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Titania Black Currant is a currant shrub rated hardy to zone 3 from other growers' reports (winters to -40°F), self-fertile, so one plant can crop, and it ripens about Jul 15 to Jul 30 in Missoula (our Missoula estimate).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"mft-facts-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHardy to\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eZone 3 to 7. A bare number means the whole of zone 3, colder half included (winters to -40°F). Find your zone with our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/cold-hardiness-calculator\"\u003ecold hardiness calculator\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"mft-chill\"\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eChill hours\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout 1,100 hours (700 to 1,600). Our estimate. No published figure exists for this variety yet. Montana winters give it plenty. In milder climates, make sure your winters average at least this much. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003eCheck your chill hours\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#titania-black-currant-bundle-of-2\"\u003esee our sources\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePollination\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSelf-Fertile. Bloom group 4 of 7 (mid), very early spring here. Titania sets fruit on its own, but it crops best with a different black currant nearby, such as \u003ca href=\"\/products\/consort-black-currant\"\u003eConsort\u003c\/a\u003e. Bloom group is our estimate from the variety's origin and relatives. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/currant-gooseberry-pollination-chart\"\u003eCurrant \u0026amp; Gooseberry Pollination Chart\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRipens\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAbout Jul 15 to Jul 30 in Missoula (a Missoula estimate from published sources). Real years swing about a week either way. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/ripening-map\"\u003eSee the date for your town\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSpacing\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePlant 4 to 5 ft apart.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGood for\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eJams and jellies (8\/10), juice and sweet cider (8\/10), sauce and butter (8\/10), canning and freezing (7\/10), brandy and liqueurs (6\/10), fresh eating (6\/10). Scores are our 1 to 10 ratings, but we're still new to this one, so they lean on published descriptions and other growers rather than our own harvests. 8 and up makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDeer\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSometimes damaged by deer.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat you get\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBare root, 1-2 ft. Shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring, roots wrapped in moist sawdust. Guaranteed to bud out.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis is our first year growing Titania, so everything below is secondhand until we get more long-term data from our own mother plants.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTitania is a Swedish black currant with big berries, a milder flavor than most black currants, and good mildew resistance. It was one of the top performers in North Dakota's black currant trials.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOrigin and History\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt was bred by Pal Tamas at Tollarp, Sweden, from a cross made in 1969 and selected in 1974, and it was introduced in the 1980s. Its parents are the Russian variety Altajskaja Desertnaja and a seedling of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/consort-black-currant\"\u003eConsort\u003c\/a\u003e and Kajaanin Musta.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFruit and Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe berries are large, and St. Lawrence Nurseries describes the flavor as \"a bit milder than other cultivars, but with typical black currant flavor.\" In Montana State's variety trials, Titania had the highest sugar of the black currants tested, though its berries were smaller than those of the newer Canadian varieties in the trial. It ripens in midsummer. NDSU found the fruit closest to the ground ripens first and can start dropping before the top is ripe, so plan on picking twice. It's mostly used for juice and jam.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowth Habit and Spacing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a big, vigorous bush, up to about 6 feet according to the University of Minnesota, and the canes tend to bend toward the ground under a heavy crop. Space plants about 4 to 5 feet apart for easy picking and airflow. It bears early, with a full harvest by about the third year. At NDSU's Carrington station it averaged 4.7 pounds per plant over six years and was recommended for North Dakota. Most sources rate it resistant to powdery mildew.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePollination\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTitania is self-fertile, so one plant will fruit on its own.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTitania is rated zone 3 by most nurseries, and One Green World lists it hardy to -40F. The University of Minnesota rates its hardiness excellent to very good. We've listed it at zone 3.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA note on white pine blister rust: Titania carries the Cr gene, which was bred in for immunity to blister rust. But blister rust has since been reported on Titania in Connecticut, and UMass Extension says a new strain in the Northeast can overcome that immunity. So it's resistant, but not immune.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"border:1px solid #cfcfcf;border-left:4px solid #8a1c1c;background:#faf7f6;padding:14px 18px;margin-top:28px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0 0 10px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShipping restrictions: white pine blister rust quarantine\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0 0 10px;\"\u003eBlack currants (\u003cem\u003eRibes nigrum\u003c\/em\u003e and its hybrids) are an alternate host for white pine blister rust. We \u003cstrong\u003ecannot ship this plant to Delaware, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Rhode Island, Virginia, or West Virginia\u003c\/strong\u003e, where its sale or importation is prohibited by state law.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0 0 10px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePermit or local restrictions also apply in:\u003c\/strong\u003e Michigan and New Jersey (state permit required) and New York (prohibited outside designated fruiting-currant districts unless the cultivar is certified rust-resistant). Several other states restrict planting only within specific counties or townships.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0;font-size:0.9em;color:#555;\"\u003eOrders placed to a prohibited state will be cancelled and refunded.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:12px;color:#777;margin-top:24px\"\u003ePhoto credit: USDA-ARS National Plant Germplasm System, National Clonal Germplasm Repository, Corvallis, Oregon, accession \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/npgsweb.ars-grin.gov\/gringlobal\/accessiondetail?id=1482904\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003ePI 652993\u003c\/a\u003e. Public domain (U.S. government work).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mft-faq\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuestions we get about Titania Black Currant\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes Titania Black Currant need a pollenizer?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. Titania Black Currant is self-fertile, so a single plant can set fruit, but it crops best with a different black currant nearby, such as \u003ca href=\"\/products\/consort-black-currant\"\u003eConsort\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow cold hardy is Titania Black Currant?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe list Titania Black Currant at zone 3, which means winters down to about -40°F. That comes from One Green World's -40°F rating and most nurseries' zone 3, not from our own winters yet. We'll update it once our own plants have been through some Montana winters.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow many chill hours does Titania Black Currant need?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout 1,100 hours of winter chill (we count hours at or below 45°F), likely somewhere between 700 and 1,600. Nobody has published a chill figure for it, so that's our estimate from its relatives and origin. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours\"\u003echill hours guide\u003c\/a\u003e has a calculator for your winters, and our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/chill-hours-research#titania-black-currant-bundle-of-2\"\u003eresearch page\u003c\/a\u003e lists the sources.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhen does Titania Black Currant ripen?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout Jul 15 to Jul 30 in Missoula, Montana (an estimate built from published sources and our climate). Warmer places run earlier and cooler places later; our ripening map converts the date to your town.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat is Titania Black Currant good for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur top use scores for Titania Black Currant are jams and jellies (8\/10), juice and sweet cider (8\/10), sauce and butter (8\/10), canning and freezing (7\/10). Since we're still new to it, those scores lean on published descriptions and trial results rather than our own harvests. Anything scored 8 or higher makes our Best Of lists.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWill deer eat Titania Black Currant?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSometimes. Deer browse Titania Black Currant now and then, so protect young plants where deer pressure is high.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat arrives, and when does Titania Black Currant ship?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTwo dormant bare-root plants, roots wrapped in moist sawdust with a vapor barrier, shipped or picked up in Missoula in spring. Sizes offered: 1-2 ft. We guarantee our plants bud out.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"1-2 ft.","offer_id":45181660430402,"sku":null,"price":54.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/titania-black-currant-fruit.jpg?v=1790130543"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.montanafruittrees.com\/collections\/powdery-mildew-resistant\/crabapple-tree.oembed","provider":"Montana Fruit Trees","version":"1.0","type":"link"}