Tree of the Week Tree Planting and Care

Red Jonathan Apple

By Sheereen Othman | September 9, 2015

(Malus X Domestica)

Red-Jonathan-Apple_1-722This fruit may be a little less persistent at ripening than its counterpart the early harvest, but the red Jonathan is still packed with a succulent taste—tart and well-balanced. It’s a great apple for fresh eating, freezing and cooking. The red Jonathan ripens mid-September to mid-October.

Here are a few things to note if you’re considering adding one to your yard.

Environmental Factors

  • This tree grows well in moist, well-drained soil and is not drought tolerant (hardiness zones 4-8).
  • Medium growing tree, growing 1-2 feet a year and reaching 20-25 feet at maturity. Check out our Fruit Tree Spacing Guide
  • Needs a minimum of 6-8 hours of direct sun every day.

Physical Attributes

  • Blooms white/pink flowers midseason.
  • Available in standard, semi-dwarf, and dwarf sizes. Standard size bears fruit 6-10 years.
  • Will need a second tree to cross-pollinate to produce apples. Can be pollinated with yellow delicious, red delicious, early harvest, or a variety from a different apple family.
  • Bonus tip: These apples will keep for 3-6 months if stored in the refrigerator.

Have an awesome apple recipe? We’d love to hear it!

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