Apple Tree Idared Apple Tree - Malus domestica

Malus domestica 'Idared' is a productive variety that fruits quickly. It is easy to grow in all regions. The medium to large round apples develop smooth, thin, and shiny skin that is yellow-green with bright red stripes on almost the entire surface. Its white-creamy flesh is firm, juicy, sweet, tangy, and moderately fragrant. The fruits can be consumed immediately after harvesting in October, or can be stored for 6 months in a cool place. The apples have a high sugar content, making them perfect in pies, compotes, or sautéed. They are also delicious in savory dishes. It is a self-sterile (diploid) variety that requires the presence of other apple varieties to improve pollination.

Malus domestica, scientifically also known as Malus communis or Malus pumila, is commonly called the common or domestic apple tree. It belongs to the Rosaceae family. It has been present in Europe since ancient times, and is native to the forests of Central Asia. It has excellent hardiness and is probably the most cultivated fruit tree in Northern Europe. There are approximately 20,000 varieties, including around 10,000 of American origin, 2,000 of English origin, and 2,000 of Chinese origin. 

Malus domestica 'Idared' was obtained in 1935 by L. Werner from the Moscow Experimental Station in Idaho, USA. it is a cross between the 'Jonathan' and 'Wagener' varieties. It was commercialised in 1942.

'Idared' branches well with a semi-erect habit, becoming trailing as it ages. Its habit is suitable for both low and tall forms, as well as espalier forms. Its foliage consists of large, ovate leaves that are greenish-brown on the upper side and whitish-green on the lower side, with deeply toothed edges. The mid-early flowering occurs in April, which usually protects it from frost. The apple tree is therefore suitable for cultivation in all regions. The flowers are destroyed by frosts of -2 to -3°C (28.4 to 26.6°F). It is a partially self-fertile (diploid) variety that pollinates fairly well, but the presence of other apple varieties nearby will improve pollination and therefore production. Varieties such as 'Akane', 'Cox's Orange', 'Golden Delicious', 'Granny Smith', 'Jonagold', 'Melrose', 'Reine des Reinettes', 'Winter Banana' or any other mid-late flowering variety are suitable for cross-pollination. Ornamental apple trees, such as 'Perpetu Evereste' and 'John Downie' bloom abundantly and can be excellent pollinators.

Malus domestica 'Idared' is a moderately vigorous variety. The harvest begins in early October. The medium to large round apples develop smooth, thin, and shiny skin that is yellow-green with bright red stripes on almost the entire surface. Its white-creamy flesh is firm, juicy, sweet, tangy, and moderately fragrant. The apples have a high sugar content, making them perfect in pies, compotes, or sautéed. They are also delicious in savory dishes. They are rich in carbohydrates and fructose, and are invigorating and rehydrating. They boast a high content of vitamins A, B, C, and E, minerals, antioxidants, and fibre. The fruits can be stored throughout winter, even until March. Store in a cool, clean place, protected from light, at a temperature of around 8 to 10°C (46.4 to 50°F), or in a cold room, sealed off from outside air, at a temperature of 1 to 3°C (33.8 to 37.4°F). Apples release ethylene, a gas that promotes fruit ripening. To accelerate the ripening of your other fruits or vegetables, place your apples next to them.

'Idared' is a highly productive variety that bears fruit biennially, meaning it produces abundantly and regularly every year. It is resistant to scab, but is sensitive to powdery mildew and susceptible to fire blight and canker. Reduce the number of fruits on the tree to obtain beautiful apples. Remove some branches from the centre of the tree to provide light and give the fruits a beautiful colour. This will also limit the occurrence of diseases.

Apple trees are some of the most popular fruit trees for our gardens. There is such a wide range of apple trees that it is easy to find the right one for you.