Which Prairie Hardy Apple Tree Should I Plant?
We hear this question a lot, and for good reason! Choosing the perfect apple tree is a journey, especially when taste-testing isn’t always an option. Add in the fact that everyone’s taste buds have their own opinion, and things get tricky. Choosing the perfect apple can be a bit of a quest, but no worries, Kurt and I (Kristel) are here, sleeves rolled up, to help you confidently find, plant, and grow a tree that will - with time - serve up apples you’ll fall in love with.
Prairie Apples: Bigger and Better than Ever
Historically, crabapples dominated the Prairie landscape. Small and tough, they thrived in harsh climates, feeding generations of settlers and holding their ground for years. But thanks to passionate producers who spent over a century experimenting, crossing, and selecting, we now have larger, more flavourful varieties to enjoy.
We’re proud to offer some of the finest prairie hardy apple trees for Canadians in hardiness zones 1 through 3 (and warmer), with varieties that are truly delicious!
Pro Tip for Bigger, Tastier Apples
Remember to cull the fruitlets (the baby apples that emerge on your tree) down to one or two per cluster in early spring. This encourages larger, more flavourful fruit. You’ll thank us come harvest time!
Short on time? This is our Quick List of Recommended Cultivars for Large Size and Flavour, you will not regret planting these:
Kristel’s Favourite: The Trailman Applecrab
I remember it clearly: Kurt handed me this unusual, egg-shaped apple – just the right size for my hand. We taste a lot of apples (tough job, I know), so I took a bite without much thought. But then it hit me: an explosion of appley goodness! A mix of honey sweetness with a spicy tart edge. It was crunchy, juicy, and irresistible.
How had we not planted a dozen of these by the front door? I was in love. And it’s not just me; many apple enthusiasts agree – the Trailman apple is a true prairie gem.
Kurt’s Favourite: The Edmonton Boris Apple
Kurt, like any true apple lover, enjoys a variety of apples. But when pressed to choose just one, he always picks the Boris Apple. This locally discovered beauty has a juicy, aromatic sweetness, delicate pink veins when you bite into it, and makes a solid pie.
Some Boris apples grow impressively large and feature a lovely skin colouration – the perfect mix of beauty and bite.
Crowd Favourite: The Norkent Apple
When it comes to all-around favourites, the Norkent Apple takes the crown on the Prairies. Known for its versatility, it’s a top choice among prairie growers and apple lovers alike, thriving in the chill of Canadian Hardiness Zone 2. With its balanced apple/pear flavour and reliable hardiness, it’s no wonder the Norkent has earned a reputation as a true crowd-pleaser.
The runner up favourite is the Prairie Sensation Apple, which strikes a perfect balance of sweet and tart.
Timing Your Harvest: Early to Late Season Apples
Apples on the prairies ripen across our short summer season, with late bloomers maturing by late September. For those who can’t wait for that first bite, early varieties are a welcome treat by mid to late August!
We recommend planting a mix of early- and late-season apples to keep your orchard productive over an extended harvest period. Keep in mind that ripening dates can shift slightly depending on the weather.
When selecting apple trees, always consider your hardiness zone. For instance, if you live in Zone 2, planting a Zone 3/4 apple tree may leave it vulnerable to winter damage. Choosing varieties well-suited to your local climate will ensure both hardiness and productivity for years to come.
Ripening Guide by Season
|
Mid to Late August |
Early to Mid September |
Mid to Late September |
Early to Mid October |
|
|
|
|
Honourable Mentions: Apples for Every Need
-
Best Fresh Eating: Autumn Delight, Boris,
Boughen Delight, Carroll, Chestnut, Collet, Goodland, Lee 17, Mac Spur, Minnesota 447, Misty Rose, Mystery, Norcue, Noret, Norkent, Norlove, Norson, Parkland, Patterson, PF 12, Prairie Sensation, Red Sparkle, Rescue, Rosybrook, September Ruby, Summer Red, Trailman.
- Best Pies/Cooking: 9-22 End, Breakey, Carlos Queen, Carroll, Collet, Garland, Goodland, Manitoba, M360, Mystery, Norcue, Prairie Sensation, Prairie Sun, Red Wonder, Vick’s Pick.
-
Best Juicing/Cider: 9-22 End, Autumn Delight, Boughen Delight, Carlos Queen, Chestnut, Lee 17, Minnesota 1734, Minnesota 447, Morden Russet, Norcue, Noret, Norkent,
Norlove, Norson, Rosybrook, Red Sparkle, Red Wonder, Rescue, Palmetta, September Ruby, Trailman.
- Excellent Storage (Up to 3 Months): Carlos Queen, Collet, Garland, Goodland, Mac Spur, Morden Russet, Prairie Sensation, September Ruby
- Best Long-Term Storage (4+ Months): Norkent, Minnesota 1734, Minnesota 447, M360, Red Sparkle.
Heritage Apples for the Romantics
For the history buffs and romantics among us, we offer heritage varieties that connect you to the past. Whether you’re a collector or simply want a taste of tradition, these apples bring nostalgia and charm to your orchard.
A Final Note to Our Fellow Apple Enthusiasts
If you’ve made it this far, you’re a true apple lover! Every homestead with a bit of space deserves an apple tree – hardy, delicious, and a joy to grow. So whether you’re craving a snack, a baking beauty, or a cider-worthy apple, we’ve got you covered.
Visit our Apple Catalogue to explore our collection and make your pick. Happy apple planting!
This content is the property of Prairie Hardy Nursery and reflects our professional opinions and experiences. While we strive to provide accurate and helpful information, individual preferences and growing conditions may vary. Please do not reproduce or distribute this material without written permission.