Apples – 6 varietys

Origin
The apple, botanically known as Malus domestica, belongs to the Rosaceae family. Originally, the apple comes from Central Asia, particularly the areas around Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and China. Over the centuries, apples have spread worldwide through human cultivation and trade and are now found in temperate climates on all continents. Thanks to their adaptability and extensive breeding efforts, there are now thousands of apple varieties that can thrive in various climates and soil conditions.

Growth, Appearance, and Aspect
Apple trees are deciduous and can reach heights between 3 and 12 meters, depending on the variety. The leaves are oval, toothed, and range from light green to dark green. In spring, the trees are adorned with white to pink blossoms that emit a pleasant fragrance. These flowers have five petals and are usually arranged in clusters. The fruits that develop from these blossoms vary greatly in shape, size, and color, typically being round and red, green, or yellow. The skin can be smooth or slightly rough, while the flesh can range from juicy and crisp to soft and mealy, depending on the variety.

Cultivation and Care
They prefer a temperate climate with cold winters necessary to provide the chilling hours required for fruit set. The soil should be well-drained, nutrient-rich, and slightly acidic to neutral. The trees need a sunny location to ensure optimal photosynthesis and fruit formation. Regular watering is important, especially during dry periods, but waterlogging should be avoided to prevent root rot.

Cultivation requires regular pruning to maintain the tree's shape, allow light into its interior, and improve fruit quality. This usually occurs in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Apple trees also benefit from good soil care, including mulching and fertilizing. Organic fertilizers such as compost or well-rotted manure are ideal for improving the soil and ensuring a good nutrient supply.

Taste, Use, and Fruit
The taste of apples ranges from sweet to tart and heavily depends on the variety. They can be eaten fresh or used in various culinary applications, including baking, cooking, juicing, and drying. Apples are a key ingredient in many traditional recipes such as apple pie, applesauce, and cider. They are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and various antioxidants that can contribute to heart health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Harvest Time
The harvest time for apples varies depending on the variety and climate but generally ranges from late summer to autumn. Early varieties can be harvested as early as July, while late varieties can remain on the tree until October or even November. A sign of ripeness is when the apples easily detach from the tree and have fully developed their characteristic color. After harvest, apples can be stored for several months depending on the variety and storage conditions, with cool, dark, and well-ventilated places being ideal.

Pollination
Apples are generally not self-fertile and require cross-pollination from another apple variety to set fruit. This means that at least two different apple varieties must grow nearby for pollination by insects, mainly bees, to occur. A good pollinator tree should be planted within a 50-meter radius to ensure effective pollination. However, some apple varieties are partially self-fertile but still produce better yields when cross-pollinated.