The Ambrosia apple is a highly desired variety, celebrated for its sweet taste and crisp texture.
Ambrosia Apple Characteristics
The Ambrosia apple stands out with its distinct attributes. Its flavor profile is notably sweet with low acidity, often described as having honey-like and subtle pear or melon notes. The flesh is creamy-white, crisp, and juicy, providing a satisfying crunch with each bite. This apple also resists browning when sliced, which makes it suitable for fresh preparations like salads and fruit platters.
Visually, the Ambrosia apple features a pinkish-red blush over a creamy yellow background, sometimes with vibrant red striping. It typically has a round to slightly conical shape and is medium to large. The Ambrosia variety originated as a chance seedling discovered in the early 1990s in British Columbia, Canada. Its exact parentage is unknown, but it is speculated to be a natural cross between Jonagold and Golden Delicious, or Starking Delicious and Golden Delicious.
Planting Ambrosia Apple Trees
Ambrosia apple trees thrive in locations that receive full sun exposure, ideally at least 6 to 8 hours daily, to promote optimal growth and fruit development. Good air circulation is also beneficial, helping to prevent disease. Avoiding “frost pockets,” areas where cold air settles, is important as late frosts can damage the tree’s delicate flowers.
The ideal soil for Ambrosia apple trees is well-draining, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. Incorporating organic matter, such as well-rotted manure or compost, into the planting hole can improve soil structure and fertility. When planting, dig a hole that is at least twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep, ensuring the top roots are at soil level. After placing the tree, backfill with soil, gently firming it around the roots to remove air pockets, then water thoroughly.
For optimal growth and to ensure cross-pollination benefits, space Ambrosia apple trees approximately 15 to 20 feet apart. If using dwarfing rootstocks, spacing can be adjusted accordingly. The best time to plant Ambrosia apple trees is during their dormant season, typically from autumn to early spring, before bud break. This timing allows the tree to establish its root system before the demands of new growth.
Ongoing Care for Ambrosia Apple Trees
Watering
Consistent watering is important for the health and productivity of Ambrosia apple trees. Newly planted trees (1 to 3 years old) require more frequent deep watering, around 5 gallons one to three times per week, to help their root systems develop. Adjust frequency based on soil type and weather.
For established trees (3 years or older), about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall, is a good guideline, or water deeply when the top 8 to 10 inches of soil feel dry. Deep watering encourages deeper roots, enhancing drought resistance. Mulching around the base helps retain soil moisture and reduces weeds.
Fertilizing
Before applying any fertilizer, conduct a soil test to understand specific nutrient needs. Established fruit-bearing apple trees benefit from a balanced or high-nitrogen fertilizer in early spring, as nitrogen uptake increases with fruit production. A general recommendation for mature trees is 1 to 2 pounds of actual nitrogen per year, along with equivalent amounts of phosphorus and potassium, applied evenly beneath the dripline, staying at least 18 inches from the trunk.
For young trees (1-3 years old) or those showing less than 12 inches of new growth annually, a balanced fertilizer like 10-10-10 can be applied at about half a pound three weeks after planting, and then annually in split applications in late April and late May. Stop fertilizing by July 1st to prevent new growth vulnerable to winter injury.
Pruning
The primary goals of pruning are to promote fruit production, manage tree size, and ensure good air circulation and light penetration throughout the canopy. This practice involves removing dead, diseased, or crossing branches that can rub and create wounds. Pruning also helps to remove weak or unproductive branches and to open the tree’s center, which allows better light distribution and air flow, reducing disease risk.
The general timing for most pruning is during the dormant season, typically in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Annual winter pruning helps keep apple trees productive and controls their size.
Pest and Disease Management
Ambrosia apples can be susceptible to issues such as apple scab, powdery mildew, and fire blight. Preventative measures include good orchard sanitation like removing fallen leaves and pruning debris to reduce overwintering fungi. Ensuring proper air circulation through regular pruning also helps deter fungal diseases.
Monitoring trees regularly for early signs of pests, such as aphids or codling moths, allows for timely intervention. Maintaining overall tree vigor through proper watering and fertilization can significantly reduce the likelihood of severe infestations or infections.
Harvesting and Storing Ambrosia Apples
Ambrosia apples typically ripen from late September to early October, though timing can vary by region. Indicators of ripeness include their characteristic pinkish-red blush over a creamy yellow background, a firm texture, and a subtly sweet aroma. Apples should separate easily from the branch with a gentle twist, indicating they are ready for picking.
Careful harvesting techniques are essential to prevent bruising, which can shorten the apple’s shelf life. Gently twisting the apple rather than pulling it directly helps avoid damage.
Once harvested, Ambrosia apples have excellent storage qualities. For maximizing their shelf life, store them in a cool, dark, and humid environment, such as a refrigerator or a root cellar. The optimum storage temperature is between 32°F and 40°F (0°C to 4.5°C). Keeping them dry and away from strong-smelling items like onions also helps maintain their quality and flavor.