Common name Apples
Botanical name Malus species
Family Rosaceae
Natural range Asia
Mature height to 6m
Form Broad vase-shape
Likes Cold temps to set fruit
Dislikes Warmer climates
Where to plant Sunny position, well-drained soil
Known for Being delicious
What’s the Origin of Apple Trees?
Introducing the apple tree, a staple in everyone’s fruit list. The modern apple, belonging to the Malus species and the Rosaceae family, has roots (literally and figuratively!) in Kazakhstan. Interestingly, the wild-origin version of the apple, known as Malus sieversii, isn’t much smaller than its modern domesticated counterparts.
How Many Types of Apples Exist Today?
Currently, apple enthusiasts can select from more than 7500 unique apple varieties. These cultivars serve various purposes, from cooking to raw consumption, and even cider production. Preferences for apple characteristics, such as size, acidity, colour, firmness, and sugar content, differ from one person to another and have given rise to the wide variety of apples we see today.
Do People Around the World Enjoy the Same Kind of Apples?
Fruit flavours and preferences are subjective and have evolved over time. While many people in North America and Europe savour sweet, low-acid apples, tart apples have a dedicated fan base. In Asia, especially India, the trend leans towards extremely sweet apples with minimal acidic flavour. In Australia, the Jazz and Kanzi varieties are hard to beat!
How Are New Apple Varieties Developed?
If you ever tried growing an apple tree from seed, you might have noticed that the fruit differs significantly from the parent tree. To ensure the continuation of desired characteristics, apple cultivars are often created by grafting clones onto rootstocks.
Is Growing Apples in Australia a Good Idea?
While apples are widely loved, few Australian homeowners venture into growing these trees, mainly because the climate is not ideal. Apples thrive in cooler zones, but thanks to new cultivars, they’re beginning to expand their reach.
What Does an Apple Tree Offer to Your Garden?
An apple tree is not just a fruit provider; it’s also a medium-sized (6-8m) beauty that offers cool shade in summer, heralds spring with a bloom of flowers, and brightens autumn with a colourful show. And let’s not forget the sweet, juicy reward during the summer season!
Are There Any Special Considerations When Growing Apples?
Indeed! One of the primary considerations when growing apples is pollination. Most apple trees require another variety nearby for pollination and fruit setting. For instance, pairing a sweet, red Jonathan with a tart, green Granny Smith is a popular choice. However, the problem can also be tackled by choosing a double or triple-grafted tree. Also, if you reside in a warmer region, opt for a ‘Low-Chill’ variety to ensure fruit production.
Fun Facts About Apple Trees:
- Modern apple species have origins tracing back to Kazakhstan.
- More than 7500 varieties of apples exist today.
- The development of new apple varieties is achieved through grafting rather than seeding.
Additional Reading on Apple Trees:
- The Historical Journey of the Apple Tree
- Exploring the Different Apple Varieties
- The Art of Growing Apple Trees
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