McIntosh Apple Tree

McIntosh apple trees are a heritage favorite, producing medium-sized fruit with bright red skin and a slight green blush. The apples are crisp and juicy with a signature sweet-tart flavor, making them perfect for fresh eating, baking, and cider-making. This early to mid-season variety thrives in full sun and well-draining soil, requiring moderate chill hours. McIntosh trees are partially self-fruitful but benefit from a pollinator, such as Liberty or Honey Crisp, for increased yields. Known for their vigorous growth and beautiful spring blossoms, McIntosh trees combine productivity, flavor, and ornamental appeal, making them a timeless addition to any orchard.Semi-dwarf on M111 rootstock. Zones: 4-9 Chill hours: 500-800 Bloom Time: Late (Based on typical Central Valley California weather) Harvest: Mid-September Looks: Round, bright to dark red over green, superb quality in cool climates. The apple's white flesh is sometimes tinged with red. Personality: Crisp, aromatic, subacid, sweet. McIntosh is a wonderful apple for dessert, cider, and cooking. The flesh and skin have a signature perfume. Facts of note: Early harvest and a favorite apple in New England. This apple was discovered in 1765 by John McIntosh in Dundas County, Ontario, Canada. The tree is vigorous and is known for setting heavy crops. It grows best at altitudes above 1,000 feet above sea level, at lower and warmer elevations the apple can become mealy soon after ripening. McIntosh is a good pollinator for other varieties. Begins to fruit in 2 years. Pollination: Partly self-fruitful, biggest crops are with Red Delicious, Gala, or Fuji to name a few. Visit our Fruit Tree Central for a listing of all our fruit tree videos and articles.Visit Tree Characteristics for a listing of all our fruit & nut tree growing characteristics.