Semi-dwarf, deciduous fruit tree Description: Fully russeted (yellowish-brown, rough finish), medium-sized apples; juicy, white, fine-grained flesh; early blooming period with a late ripening period (typically late October/November).Habit: Grafted onto semi-dwarfing rootstock (MM111); grows 12 to 15' high; space trees 15-20' apart; highly disease-resistant. Culture: Prefers full sun and ordinary garden soil; two additional pollinators (apple varieties) recommended for improved fruit production and fruit shape. Hardiness: USDA Zones 4 through 7. Attributes: Edible fruits, attracts bees Known for its excellent storage qualities, this apple was grown by the Keener family in Lincoln County, North Carolina, beginning around 1880. Also called Rusty Coat, it was described in the 1890 catalog of the Catawba County Nursery (North Carolina) as "fine for cooking, canning, and jellies, beside being one of the best table and keeping varieties." The sweet-tart flavor improves with storage.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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