Honeycrisp has become one of the best-selling apples in the U.S. Since its creation by University of Minnesota breeders, Honeycrisp has been lauded for its winter hardiness and its ability to produce large, high-quality fruit. It quickly gained popularity, particularly in temperate regions like Washington and Oregon. This is something cold-climate growers often envy, as those in warmer climates can grow a variety of apples that are difficult to grow in colder regions.

The Honeycrisp apple is known for its aromatic sweetness, with a honey-like flavor and a juicy, crisp texture that has made it a consumer favorite.

Cold Hardiness – A Relative Concept

Updated 2024: While Honeycrisp is often considered cold-hardy, its hardiness is relative. It may be well-suited to regions like New York or parts of the Midwest, but in places like Montana, where temperatures can drop below -45°F, Honeycrisp does not perform well. This has been our observation in the field.

For example, on Robert Narotsky’s farm in Bozeman, Honeycrisp suffered serious frost damage to the trunk after exposure to -50°F. Similarly, on Ed Schultz’s farm in Gallatin Gateway, MT, the apple saw -47°F, resulting in serious limb damage. If your region experiences temperatures below -45°F, we do not recommend planting Honeycrisp.

Rootstock and Availability for 2025

For 2025, we offer Honeycrisp trees on different rootstocks based on your location and climate:

• M7 Semi-Dwarf Rootstock: Suitable for areas west of the Divide or regions that do not experience temperatures below -40°F.

• Dolgo Rootstock: Ideal for areas where winters dip below -40°F, offering better cold hardiness.

• B9 Rootstock: A very dwarfing option, also suited for regions with extreme cold and temperatures below -40°F.