Roxbury Russett Apple Tree
It is rather unfortunate that russeted apples have fallen out of commercial favor as they are often some of the most delicious and unique varieties. The Roxbury Russett Apple Tree is no exception and is said to be the oldest apple cultivar bred in the United States, dating back to the mid-17th century. As with many of the old varieties it is an excellent winter keeper and very versatile.
Latin Name: Malus domestica
Site and Soil: All apples like 1/2 day to full sun and well-drained soil.
Rootstock Description: M-7 is considered a semi-dwarf rootstock. Regular apple trees grafted on M-7 rootstock wiill grow 12-16 ft. in height. Crabapples, Columnars, Espaliers, and Combination Apples will be smaller. M-7 is very hardy and adapted to most soils.
Considered a dwarf rootstock, Apple trees on M-26 typically grow 8-12 ft. in height and are usually spaced 8-12 ft. apart. Crabapples and Columnars will likely be smaller. M-26 induces early bearing, usually in 2-3 years after planting, and grows well in most soils, except very wet and poorly drained ones. On windy sites, trees grafted on M-26 may need staking.
Pollination Requirements: All apples need another variety nearby for pollination. Neighboring trees often offer sufficient pollen for good fruit set.
Hardiness: The Roxbury Russett Apple Tree is hardy to minus 30° F or below.
Bearing Age: 2-3 years after planting
Size at Maturity: 12-16 ft.
Bloom Time: April
Ripening Time: Early August
Yield: 30-50 lbs.
Pests & Diseases: The Roxbury Russett Apple Tree can be affected by Apple Scab although it is considered resistant. Apple Scab is more prevalent in regions with wet springs, like we have in the Pacific Northwest. While it doesn’t seriously affect the eating quality of the fruit, it can cause black spots on the apples and foliage. Apple Scab can be controlled by sulfur and other sprays. Codling Moth can create wormy apples and aphids can damage the foliage of apple trees.
USDA Zone: 4
Sunset Western Zone: 1-9, 14-16
Sunset Northeast Zone: All zones