Apple Gravenstein
Notify MeMalus domestica Gravenstein is a highly regarded heritage apple known for its juicy, aromatic flesh and excellent flavour. With a skin flushed red and green with occasional striping, it offers a fine balance of sweetness and tang, making it superb for fresh eating, cider, and cooking—especially sauces and baking. Ripening in early to mid-Autumn, it is one of the earliest quality apples of the season.
Well-suited to heritage, cottage, and edible gardens, particularly where a multi-purpose apple is desired.
Plant in full sun with fertile, well-drained soil and regular moisture. As a triploid variety, Gravenstein requires two different compatible pollinators nearby (e.g. Cox’s Orange Pippin and Fuji) for reliable fruiting.
Mature size: A vigorous grower, typically reaching 4–5 metres high and wide as a free-standing tree, or smaller on semi-dwarfing rootstock.
Trimming: Prune in late winter while the tree is dormant to maintain an open, spreading canopy. Remove dead, damaged, or inward-growing branches to enhance airflow and light penetration, which supports healthy fruiting and reduces disease risk.
Deadheading: Not applicable for apple trees.
Fertilising: Feed in early spring with a balanced general-purpose fertiliser. An annual mulch of compost or well-rotted manure around the base (not touching the trunk) helps improve soil health and moisture retention.
Watering: Provide deep, regular watering during dry spells and fruit development. Young trees need consistent watering until fully established.
Pest Control: Monitor for codling moth, apple sawfly, and aphids. Use pheromone traps for moths and control aphids with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Keep the area clear of fallen fruit and leaves to discourage pests.
Disease Management: 'Gravenstein' is somewhat susceptible to apple scab and canker. Look for leaf spotting, cracked fruit, or sunken bark lesions. Prune to maintain good airflow, remove and destroy affected material, and apply a suitable fungicide if symptoms appear. Ensure proper sanitation and spacing to reduce disease pressure.
Enjoy complimentary delivery anywhere in mainland New Zealand when you purchase plants worth $250 or more*.
For orders below $250, the following flat-rate delivery charges are applicable:
- Urban delivery within mainland New Zealand: $19.95
- Rural delivery within mainland New Zealand: $39.95
- Waiheke, Chatham and Great Barrier Islands: Please contact us for shipping options.
We aim to have all orders shipped within 14 days from the order date, unless a different shipping date is specified alongside a product.
