Apple Granny Smith
Apple Granny Smith
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Scientific Name |
Malus domestica 'Granny Smith' |
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Foliage: Deciduous |
Leaves: Broadly oval, dark green, and Glossy with a "doubly serrated" (toothed) edge. They are generally tougher and more leathery than Gala leaves. It is one of the last apple varieties to lose its leaves in the winter because the fruit often stays on the tree until very late in the season. Flowers: Showy, fragrant clusters of white to pale pink blossoms. They typically bloom in mid-season, slightly later than many other varieties. Fruit: Bright green skin, which can sometimes develop a pink or reddish blush on the sun-exposed side. The fruit is medium to large in size, with a round to slightly elongated shape. The flesh is bright white, exceptionally crisp, and famous for its sharp, acidic-tart flavor. Fruit typically ripens in the fall. Seeds: Small, dark brown to black, teardrop-shaped seeds housed in a firm central core. Bark: Smooth and grey-brown when young, becoming more furrowed, scaly, and darker grey as the tree matures. |
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Mature Height |
12-16 feet (Semi-Dwarf); 8-10 feet (Dwarf) |
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Mature Width (Spread) |
12-14 feet (Semi-Dwarf); 8-10 feet (Dwarf) |
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Growth Rate |
Moderate to Fast |
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USDA Zone |
5-9; Typically requires 400–600 chill hours, making it a great choice for both moderate and warmer climates. |
Plant Care & Characteristics
Light Requirements: Full Sun. It requires 6–8 hours of direct sun. Because Granny Smith apples have a very long growing season, they need plenty of sunlight to develop their characteristic tart-sweet balance.
Water Requirements: Moderate. Consistent moisture is key. During the summer heat, it needs deep watering 1–2 times per week to ensure the fruit remains juicy and does not shrivel.
Drought Resistance: Low. Apple trees are not desert plants. Extended drought will cause the tree to stress, drop leaves, and produce stunted fruit.
Soil Type: Well-Drained Loam. It prefers rich, organic soil but is notably adaptable to many soil types, including slightly sandy or clay-heavy soils, provided they do not hold standing water.
Deer Resistance: Low. Like all fruit trees, Granny Smith is highly attractive to deer. They will browse the foliage and the fruit.
Pollination: Granny Smith Apple trees are partially self-fertile, meaning they can produce fruit with their own pollen. However, cross-pollination with another apple variety can increase fruit set and yield. Planting another apple tree nearby, preferably a different variety that blooms at the same time, can improve pollination and fruit production. The best partners are Fuji, Gala, Red Delicious, or a Callaway Crabapple.
Harvesting: Granny Smith Apples typically ripen in the fall, usually from late September to mid-October, depending on the growing region. The fruit is ready for harvest when it reaches its characteristic green color and can be easily removed from the tree with a gentle twist. Apples should be handled carefully to avoid bruising and stored in a cool, humid environment to maintain their quality and crispness.
Pest/Disease Resistance: Low to Moderate. It is susceptible to Fire Blight, Powdery Mildew, and Apple Scab. It requires a proactive management plan.