Antonovka Apple (Malus domestica) is a famous heirloom apple tree variety from Eastern Europe, celebrated for its exceptional cold hardiness, strong root system, and tart, aromatic fruit. Often used as rootstock for grafting or grown for its own flavorful apples, this hardy variety thrives in a wide range of climates and soil types.
The Non-GMO Antonovka Apple Tree produces medium to large yellow-green apples with a tangy, crisp taste perfect for fresh eating, baking, or cider-making. Its vigorous growth and adaptability make it one of the most reliable apple seed lines for orchard use and long-term tree establishment.
Features
- Hardy heirloom apple variety tolerant to severe cold
- Non-GMO and highly adaptable rootstock type
- Produces crisp, tart, aromatic yellow-green fruit
- Long-lived and disease-resistant
- Ideal for orchards, grafting, and home gardens
- Excellent for cider, baking, and storage
Specifications
- Scientific Name: Malus domestica ‘Antonovka’
- Common Name: Antonovka Apple
- Plant Type: Deciduous fruit tree
- Growth Height: 15–25 feet
- Spread: 12–20 feet
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 3–8
- Sunlight: Full sun
- Soil Type: Loamy, well-drained; pH 6.0–7.0
- Bloom Season: Mid to late spring
- Fruit Season: Early to mid-fall (September–October)
- Flower Color: White to pink
- Fruit Color: Greenish-yellow
- Foliage: Bright green, serrated leaves
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
- Planting Season: Spring or fall
- Sowing Depth: ½ inch
- Germination Time: 60–120 days (requires cold stratification for 90–120 days)
- Watering Needs: Moderate; deep watering during establishment
- Maintenance: Prune annually to shape and remove crossing branches
- Pollination: Requires cross-pollination with another apple variety for best fruiting
- Wildlife Benefits: Flowers attract pollinators; fruits feed birds and mammals
- Uses: Rootstock, fruit production, cider, pies, canning
Planting Guide
- Cold Stratify: Refrigerate seeds for 90–120 days in moist medium before sowing.
- Prepare Soil: Use deep, loamy soil rich in organic matter.
- Sow Seeds: Plant ½ inch deep and water thoroughly.
- Light: Provide full sunlight for strong growth and fruiting.
- Watering: Keep soil evenly moist; avoid waterlogging.
- Spacing: 15–20 feet between trees.
- Care: Prune in winter and apply mulch to conserve moisture.
