Columnar Apple Tree Cheverny- Georges Delbard

The columnar habit and the low development of the Cheverny delcolin apple tree are well suited to gardens with limited space, to cultivation in pots on balconies or terraces, or to create a small fruit hedge. This is a variety that is very hardy, productive, highly resistant to scab and mildew. Delicious, the Cheverny apple is a round-shaped fruit, of medium to large size, with a smooth yellow-orange skin, with few lenticels at maturity. Its crisp, whitish and firm flesh is very juicy, sweet and aromatic. From late September, the fruits can be consumed right after harvest and can be stored until November. With a high sugar content, it is a very pleasant and invigorating apple to bite into. Excellent in pies, compotes or sautéed, the Cheverny apple is also greatly 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 highly hardy and is undoubtedly 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 Cheverny® 'delcolin' is a recent creation from the Georges Delbard Nurseries in France.

Elegant, the Cheverny Apple Tree is a small tree with a columnar and compact habit that reaches a height of 3 to 4m (10 to 13ft) and a width of approximately 50 to 70cm (20 to 28in) at maturity. Its foliage consists of large, ovate leaves that are dark green on top and whitish-green underneath, with deeply toothed edges. The white flowering occurs in April-May, which usually protects it from frost. The flowers are destroyed by frost at temperatures below -2 to -3°C. The Cheverny Delcolin 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, Chenonceau, 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 Cheverny Apple Tree is a vigorous variety with fast and productive fruiting. The fruiting, which is uniform and abundant, begins around late September and extends until October. The apple can be consumed raw or cooked, in compotes, in pastries, paired with cheeses, or as an accompaniment to savoury dishes, such as with black pudding, pork, or in salads. Easy to consume, the apple provides a great feeling 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 the apple a health asset. The fruits can be stored until November. Storage can be done in a cool, clean 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 accelerate the ripening of other fruits or vegetables, place your apples next to them.

Very popular thanks to its fruit, the apple tree finds its rightful place in the garden, bringing joy to both young and old. Among a wide range of apple trees, it is easy to find the variety that best suits your tastes.