Gravenstein Apple

Overview

We have updated out hardiness for Gravenstein. Not only has this variety been successfully growing on Bruce Benson’s farm in Missoula for over 50 years, enduring multiple -30°F winters, it has survived well for Les McCartney in the low spot of the Gallatin Valley in Bozeman, MT, having seen -45F without much winter injury. Gravenstein is a solid zone 3 apple.

Important Growing Considerations

Gravenstein comes with a few specific requirements:

• Triploid Variety: It cannot pollenize other apples and requires two diploid pollenizers with overlapping bloom times for successful fruit set.

• Early Blooming: Choose pollenizers accordingly to match its bloom window.

• Not a Good Keeper: This apple does not store well post-harvest.

Disease Resistance and Susceptibility

Gravenstein is:

• Susceptible to: Fireblight, powdery mildew, bitter pit, and apple scab

• Resistant to: Cedar-apple rust

Flavor Profile

Gravenstein has a distinctive sweet-tart flavor, often appreciated for its honey-like notes, making it a favorite for fresh eating and cider.

Hardiness Zone and Recommendations

This apple is best suited for Zone 4, based on its ability to survive down to -33°F. However, we do not recommend planting it in areas that routinely experience temps colder than this.