A paradise apple tree, scientifically known as Malus domestica, is a hybrid fruit tree native to the British Isles. It is a cross between older apple varieties such as the Newtown Pippin and early Victorian apples. The fruit of the paradise apple tree has a unique and sharp flavor. Its flesh is juicy, crisp and very sweet, making it one of the most popular apples in the region.
The heavenly apple tree produces abundant and abundant crops of bright, light yellow-green apples in late summer and fall. Its apples ripen late, ensuring that there is plenty of time for them to be enjoyed for months. Given the right climate, it can bear up to 15 fruits per tree and with proper care, it can remain productive for up to 75 years.
Paradise apple trees are rather cold-hardy and can withstand temperatures as low as -10°F (-25°C). When spring arrives, its white flowers emerge, combining with its vibrant green foliage, creating an almost spiritual sight. Though they can grow up to 18 feet in height and 10 feet in width, their size can be easily managed by annual pruning.
Though paradise apple trees are relatively disease-resistance, there are a couple of particular afflictions to watch out for. The trees are very susceptible to fungal infection, particularly cedar rust, fire blight and apple scab. Therefore, it is important to frequently inspect the trees during late spring and make sure to spray them with fungicides if needed.
Paradise apple trees can either be planted from seeds or grafted onto rootstocks. When growing from seed, it is important to remember that the characteristics of the tree are unpredictable and will not be the same as the parent tree. However, grafted varieties will produce trees that match the characteristics of the parent trees.
Growing Paradise Apple Trees
Paradise apple trees need lots of sunlight to thrive and grow healthy, so be sure to choose an area with full sun exposure. The soil should provide enough air for the roots and must have an acidic or neutral pH. Drainage is also very important if the tree is to grow healthy and strong. When planting, do so in early spring, making sure to keep the graft union above the soil surface.
Once planted, well-drained soil should be used to fill in outlands around the tree. During the first two growing seasons, make sure to keep the soil near the base of the tree moist and weed free. A layer of mulch will help retain moisture and keep the soil cool during hot summer days. The tree should be staked with a strong wood until the roots are strong and established.
Paradise apple trees need regular fertilizing as they grow; twice a year is ideal. During spring, apply fertilizer around the base of the tree to enrich the soil. The feeding should be done several weeks before blossoming starts to ensure healthy growth. In fall, spread compost or fertilizer around the tree to give it the nutrients it needs to stay healthy during winter.
Caring For Paradise Apple Trees
Once the paradise apple tree has become well-established, there are a few simple steps you can take to keep it healthy. Regular pruning is important, as it will make harvesting easier and limit the number of fruits that form on the tree. Pruning should be done in late winter/early spring, giving you plenty of time to shape the tree before blossoming.
Insect infestation is also something to watch out for. As with all types of apples, the fruit of the paradise apple tree can be affected by pests such as aphids, caterpillars, moths and beetles. Insecticides and pesticides are like a good weapon against insects, but if you want to go green and use natural remedies, garlic oil, neem oil and boric acid can also be effective against unwanted infestations.
Harvesting is a key point in taking care of your paradise apple tree, as it can have a great impact on its health and vigor. Apples must be picked when ripe to ensure maximum flavor. As the tree fruits, check your apples often and harvest them once you can easily pull them off the stem just by giving them a gentle twist.
Common Diseases of Paradise Apple Trees
Although paradise apple trees are quite resistant by nature, they can still suffer from some common diseases such as fire blight, cedar rust and apple scab. Fire blight is a bacterial disease that affects fruit bearing trees, causing the infected leaves and shoots to become blackened. There is not a cure for this disease, so preventive measures must be taken by applying fire blight-fighting sprays.
Cedar rust is another disease that can affect paradise apple trees, especially when grown in areas with many cedar trees. The fungus, that usually comes from cedar, infects the leaves and fruits, causing them to become bumpy and distorted. Pruning, fungicides and regular cleaning can help keep this disease at bay.
Finally, apple scab, a fungal infection that affects all types of apples, is also something to watch out for. The symptoms can range from spots on the leaves and fruits to early leaf drop. In extreme cases, the entire tree can die. During wetter seasons, be sure to frequently check your tree and if you notice signs of infections, spray with fungicides immediately.
Harvesting Paradise Apples
When the time arrives to harvest your paradise apples, you will be in for a sweet and juicy treat. Apples develop their full flavor when left to mature on the tree and therefore wise pickers will wait until the fruits ripen. To know when an apple is ripe, you can check it for color, size and firmness. Ripe apples are usually light yellow-green and their skin feels firm but gentle when you pinch it.
To both make sure your tree remains healthy and the picked fruit is in good condition, the best way to harvest is to use a T-shaped grabber instead of pulling or cutting the apples off the tree. This tool puts less stress on the tree and fruits, reducing the chances of causing any harm during the harvest. Once the apples have been picked, store them in a cool and dry place until you are ready to enjoy them.
Eating Paradise Apples
The paradise apple tree’s unique flavor makes quite an impression when tasted. The flesh’s juiciness and sweetness give way to an acidity that lingers in the mouth. While some people like their apples almost any way, the paradise apple is especially delicious when eaten raw or cooked. When cooked, its flavor will get slightly sweeter and even more intense, perfect for making pies, jams and applesauce.
These apples are also very popular for juicing and make very good cider. Additionally, in the south of England it is common to turn paradise apples into wine. Other uses for paradise apples include turning them into syrup and chutney, or using them as a base for sauces.
Preserving Paradise Apples
Preserving paradise apples can be a great way to extend its sweet flavour and juiciness even after it is no longer in season. Keeping them in a cool and dry place can preserve them for around one month, although at the cost of losing much of their crispiness. The length of their shelf life can be extended considerably when frozen. To do so, simply cut the apples into thin slices and place them in a sealed Ziplock bag. This way, you can be sure to enjoy your apples in special occasions up to a year from when they were harvested.
Dehydrating your paradise apples is also a great way to preserve them, as it enables them to keep for about two years. Dehydrated fruits are a great snack; they are crunchy and a great source of energy and nutrients. To dry your apples, simply slice them thin and place them on a baking tray in your oven at 170°F (77°C). Let them bake until they become crunchy and store in an air-tight container until you are ready to enjoy them.
