Columnar Apple Tree Chenonceau - Georges Delbard

The columnar shape and elegant silhouette of the Chenonceau delcoga apple tree are well suited to gardens with limited space, container gardening on balconies or terraces, or creating a small fruit hedge. It is a hardy variety with a very strong and regular yield, highly resistant to scab and mildew. The Chenonceau apple is delicious, with a round shape and large size, and smooth orange-red skin with few visible lenticels when ripe. The crisp, pale and firm flesh is very juicy, sweet and aromatic. The fruit can be consumed as soon as it is harvested from late September and can be stored until November. With its high sugar content, it is a refreshing apple to bite into. Excellent for tarts, compotes or pan-frying, the Chenonceau is also much appreciated in savoury recipes. It is a partially self-fertile variety, but the presence of other apple tree varieties nearby will improve pollination and therefore production.

Malus domestica, also known scientifically as Malus communis or Malus pumila, is the Common or Domestic Apple tree. It belongs to the Rosaceae family. Present in Europe since ancient times, it is a fruit tree native to the forests of Central Asia. It is very hardy and is likely 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 Chenonceau® 'delcoga' is a recent creation from Georges Delbard Nurseries in France.

Elegant, the Chenonceau Apple tree is a small tree with a columnar and compact habit, reaching a height of 3 to 4 metres (10 to 13 feet) and a width of approximately 50 to 70cm (20 to 28in) at maturity. Its foliage consists of large, ovate leaves that are green-brown on top and white-green underneath, with deeply toothed edges. The white flowering occurs in April-May, which generally protects it from frost. The flowers are destroyed by frost at temperatures below -2 to -3°C. The Chenonceau delcoga columnar apple tree is a hardy plant that can withstand temperatures around -30°C, making it suitable for cultivation in most regions. The presence of other apple tree varieties nearby will improve pollination and therefore production. Columnar apple tree varieties such as Amboise, Azay-Le-Rideau, Ballerina Polka, Ballerina Maypole, Ballerina Valse, Cheverny, Chinon, Courson, Pomfital, Rhapsodie, Sonate, Vaux Le Vicomte, Versailles, Villandry are suitable for cross-pollination. The Reine des Reinettes apple tree can also fulfill this function. Ornamental apple trees, such as Perpetu Evereste and John Downie, flower abundantly and can be excellent pollinators.

The Chenonceau Apple tree is a vigorous variety with rapid and productive fruiting. The fruiting, which is uniform and abundant, begins in late September and continues until October. The apple can be consumed both raw and cooked, in compotes, pastries, paired with cheeses, or as an accompaniment to savoury dishes such as black pudding, pork, or salads. Easy to consume, the apple provides a great sense of satiety. Rich in carbohydrates and fructose, it is invigorating and rehydrating. Its high content of vitamins A, B, C, and E, minerals, antioxidants, and fibre makes it a health asset. The fruits can be stored until November. Storage can be done in a cool, dry place, protected from light at a temperature around 8 to 10°C, or in a cold room, sealed off from outside air at a temperature of 1 to 3°C. The apple releases ethylene, a gas that promotes fruit ripening. To speed up the ripening of other fruits or vegetables, place your apples next to them.

Very popular for its fruit, the apple tree finds its place in the garden for the pleasure of young and old alike. Among a wide range of apple trees varieties, it is easy to find the one that best suits your tastes.