Duchess Apple (Grafted)

The Duchess apple is extremely cold-hardy, thriving in USDA Zones 3 to 6, and is well-suited to harsh winters. It shows moderate resistance to common diseases like scab and mildew, although regular management is necessary for pests and other potential issues. This resilience and versatility have ensured its continued popularity, particularly in northern orchards.

The Duchess apple tree is medium-sized with a rounded, spreading canopy. It grows vigorously but has a tendency toward biennial fruiting if not properly thinned. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape, remove deadwood, and improve air circulation, while thinning the fruit in heavy crop years ensures larger, better-quality apples.

Size at Maturity- Semi-standard size, maturing to approximately 15-20 feet tall and 15-20 feet wide

Current Size- 1-2' tall, 1 year old graft

The fruit of the Duchess apple is medium-sized with a round-conical shape. Its skin is bright red with prominent stripes over a yellow base, often featuring a waxy finish. The flesh is firm and crisp, offering a tart, tangy flavor that mellows slightly with storage but retains its lively acidity. This makes the Duchess apple ideal for pies, sauces, and preserves, although it is also enjoyed fresh by those who prefer tangy apples. The tree typically ripens its fruit early in the season, with harvests occurring in late summer, around August to early September.