Semi-dwarf, deciduous fruit tree Description: Handsome red apples with firm, juicy yellow flesh. They have a delicious, brisk, rich flavor that is unforgettable, ripening in late autumn. Habit: Grafted onto semi-dwarfing root stock; will grow 14-16' high Culture: Prefers full sun and ordinary garden soil; needs a pollinator Hardiness: Cold hardy to USDA Zone 4 Attributes: Edible fruits, attracts bees Jefferson documented 'Esopus Spitzenburg' was one of Thomas Jefferson's two favorite dinner or table Apple varieties, the other being 'Albemarle Pippin'. He planted thirty-two of these trees in the South Orchard at Monticello between 1807 and 1812. A.J. Downing, America's foremost nineteenth century pomologist, described 'Esopus Spitzenburg' as "a handsome, truly delicious apple...unsurpassed as a dessert fruit...considered the first of apples." Today, Apple connoisseurs still consider this variety among the finest ever known. This tree will ship bare root. One year grafted M111 is approximately 4-5' tall. Bare root planting tips: If you can't plant immediately, store your plant in a cool location and keep the roots moist or pot in a container with a nursery potting mix from your local garden center. Before planting, let the roots soak for several hours as you prepare the site. You'll want to dig a large enough hole so the root mass can spread out and the plant is at the same soil level as when it was growing in the nursery. Once planted, water it in well and wait a month before fertilizing. Mulching will help to maintain moisture and raise soil temperatures for faster growth.
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