Winter Banana Apple Tree
No, this is not a trans-family cross between an apple and a banana, but Winter Banana Apple Tree does have a sweet banana-like flavor and is an excellent winter keeper, hence the name. Many consider this the best tasting fresh eating apple. The fruits feature a beautiful waxy yellow skin with a pink blush. Winter Banana is moderately disease resistant, except to Cedar Apple Rust, and requires less chill hours than many varieties.
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Latin Name: Malus domestica
Site and Soil: Apples like 1/2 day to full sun and well-drained soil.
Rootstock Description:
M-7 is considered a semi-dwarf rootstock growing 12-16 ft. in height. M-7 is very hardy and adapted to most soils. Vigorous, drought tolerant, and well anchored, trees on M-7 should not require staking.
M-26 is considered a dwarf rootstock, growing 8-12 ft. in height. 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: Apples need another variety nearby for pollination. Neighboring trees often offer sufficient pollen for good fruit set. Consider Mason Bees to help pollinate and increase fruit production.
Hardiness: Hardy to minus 30° F or below.
Bearing Age: 2-3 years after planting
Size at Maturity: Dwarf 8-12ft. / Semi-dwarf 12-16 ft.
Taste: Sweet, banana-like
Fruit Skin: Yellow with pink blush
Fruit Flesh: White
Bloom Time: April
Ripening Time: Early August
Yield: 30-50 lbs.
Pests & Diseases: Winter Banana 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: 4-9