What Kind of Apple Tree to Plant with Honeycrisp
Honeycrisp apples are known for their juicy texture, crisp crunch, and sweet flavor. They have become one of the most popular apple varieties in recent years, and for good reason. Not only are they delicious, but they are also versatile in the kitchen and can be used for baking, cooking, or eaten fresh off the tree. If you're looking to plant an apple tree to go with your Honeycrisp, here are some options to consider.
Gala Apple Tree
The Gala apple tree is a great choice to plant with Honeycrisp. It has a similar sweet and crisp flavor profile to the Honeycrisp but with a subtle hint of tartness. The Gala apple is also a great pollinator for Honeycrisp trees, as they have similar bloom times and an overlapping flowering period. The Gala apple tree is a medium-sized tree and can produce fruit within 3-4 years of being planted.
Granny Smith Apple Tree
If you're looking for a tart apple to complement the sweet Honeycrisp, then the Granny Smith apple tree is an excellent choice. It's a popular cooking apple that is known for its firm texture and tart flavor. The Granny Smith apple tree is a vigorous grower and can reach heights of up to 30 feet. It's also a great pollinator for Honeycrisp trees due to its overlapping bloom time.
Pink Lady Apple Tree
The Pink Lady apple tree is another great choice to plant with Honeycrisp. It has a crunchy texture, tart flavor, and a beautiful pink blush on the skin. The Pink Lady apple tree is a good pollinator for Honeycrisp trees and has a similar bloom time. It's also a self-fertile tree, meaning it can produce fruit without another pollinator present. The Pink Lady apple tree is a dwarf tree that grows up to 8-10 feet tall.
Cox's Orange Pippin Apple Tree
If you're looking for an apple tree with a unique flavor to pair with Honeycrisp, then the Cox's Orange Pippin apple tree is a great option. It has a nutty, sweet flavor with a hint of spice and is a popular apple variety in Europe. The Cox's Orange Pippin apple tree is a poor pollinator for Honeycrisp trees, but it's worth planting for its delicious fruit. Its overlapping flowering period with Honeycrisp trees makes it a good companion in the orchard.
In Conclusion
There are several options to consider when planting an apple tree to go with Honeycrisp. The Gala apple tree is a great pollinator and has a similar flavor profile to Honeycrisp. The Granny Smith apple tree is a tart option that can be used for cooking, and the Pink Lady apple tree has a beautiful pink blush and is self-fertile. Lastly, the Cox's Orange Pippin apple tree is a unique option with a delicious flavor profile. Regardless of which apple tree you choose to plant with your Honeycrisp, you're sure to have a bountiful harvest and delicious fruit for years to come.