Easiest Apples for Zone 8a

[SwampCat]

What apple tree(s) would you recommend as easy to grow, no spray if possible, and CAR resistant as possible. I am replacing my big garden with fruit trees. Water is available. Red clay. Would be interested in a crab variety, also. Will not be for wildlife use, but for home use - eating and canning. I am not into grafting - so would have to be available through a nursery.

 

[greyphase]

David Vernon at www.centuryfarmorchards.com would be a good place to start.

 

[homerj]

Given you're growing in red clay, the rootstock will be at least as important as the variety

 

[H20fwler]

Two that come to mind right away with your criteria would be Arkansas Black apple and Dolgo crab both on M111 for your clay.
Merle should have some good sugestions for your area.

 

[Bowsnbucks]

^^^^^ Agree with H20 on the MM-111 rootstock for heavier soil. I got that same recommendation from the head of Penn State's horticulture dept. for a tree about 14 to 16 ft. tall.