We are researching suitable types of apple trees for Mayne Island. We have good soil and water and face south. It can be very hot in the summer. We want to grow eating apples, and apples for cider making. We want to grow dwarf variety trees and we want to be organic. Any suggestions?
Hi Gakey: From what I am reading you can grow most any Apple variety you want to have. Personally, I am not fond of dwarf Apple trees. The quality of the Apple itself is not up to standard in sweetness, taste or in texture. Some varieties of Apples are naturally semi-dwarf in their growing characteristics and you may want to look at trees that are standard in size and just prune them to the height you want them to be. Trellised Apples tend to be no more than 12-15' high for easier picking and for easier overall cultural care. The URL below will give you some ideas as to the varieties you should be able to grow. http://www.applejournal.com/bc01.htm If you have not grown Apple trees before I strongly suggest you contact a host of sources to help you in your efforts, especially if you want to grow organic Apples. Luckily for you there are a few organic growers in the relative vicinity of where you are located. Just make some local contacts (in and around the B.C. area) and ask plenty of questions but be sure to ask around what nurseries others think you should look at to buy your trees from. There is no substitute for buying the trees we want to have and grow from a well regarded nursery or Fruit Tree supplier. Pay the money and buy quality plants as you will reap the benefits for the long term and no, not all Apple trees of the same variety are nearly the same! Jim
apple tree suppliers Thank you for your suggestions and the link. The link has been very helpful. Finding a reccommended supplier is challenging! thanks, gakey
Hi Gakey: Finding a reliable supplier of quality Apple nursery stock could be a real challenge. I found a nearby source you may want to check out sometime. They have an extensive variety list that is worth looking into. http://www.appleluscious.com/network/scionwood.html Jim
apples on mayne thanks for the link. I have sent my self addressed envelope off to this gentleman and have contacted many of the others. this was a great site...the apple journal. diane
Hi Diane: I realize the second link was already listed among the Apple Journal links but felt that it was a close enough source to you that you may want to contact them for trees. Their impressive list of Apples that they are growing pretty well makes a case that you can grow a large variety of Apples where you are. You have some very nice options for varieties. Good luck with your Apple endeavors. Jim
