Kingston Black Apple 3-5 ft branched tree

Kingston Black is the quintessential British cider apple ripening in October. Medium-sized deep red fruits press out to a cider that is amber colored and aromatic, with flavors reminiscent of lemons, nuts and butterscotch. This tree is a little bit slower to reach bearing-age.

B118: B118 or “Bud 118” is considered semidwarf or semistandard, growing to 85% the size of a standard rootstock tree. Similar to a standard, trees on B118 are vigorous, hardy and need no staking. Trees on B118 will begin bearing fruit slightly earlier than standard roostock trees and are reliably productive.

M111: M111 is considered semidwarf or semistandard, growing to 80% the size of a standard rootstock tree. Similar to a standard, trees on M111 are vigorous, adaptable and need no staking. Trees on M111 will begin bearing fruit slightly earlier than standard roostock trees.

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Apples thrive in Vermont. You need to have at least two different varieties for pollination; however, apples are common enough in Vermont that you can often get away with planting one if a neighbor has a few trees. Wild trees or crab apples growing nearby can also serve as pollinators. More pollen often means more and larger fruit. Plant in a well-drained spot with good sun. We grow and sell varieties that perform well in our climate and growing conditions. Varieties listed as “heirloom” originated before 1900.

If you are planting a few trees, consider selecting varieties with different uses or ripening times. If you are planning to make hard cider, add a cider variety or two to blend with more typical dessert fruit.