Topic: Which Crabapple?

[Jayb]

I think I’d like to add another Crabapple tree to the garden. I’ve already a John Downie which is gorgeous when in blossom and again stunning with its ripe fruit. I’d like to plant a different variety, nothing too big but wonder what? It’s a fairly windy location and normally a fair amount of rain, but would be pretty much in full sun. Any ideas?

[Morris]

I bought this a couple of years ago to replace an elderly apple of unknown variety that had to be felled:

http://www.mailordertrees.co.uk/Malus+%27Pink+Glow%27+%28Dolgo+Crab+Apple+Tree%29/0_caaa102_caaa129/PRAA122.htm

Only cropped lightly so far but the crab apples are beautiful in appearance, large, and do indeed make a lovely jelly.

PS I also have Red Sentinel, about 10 years old now. I love this tree, it is stunning. The red apples last until Jan/Feb here before the birds eat them. I didn't think of it at first because it's not particularly good for cooking, but maybe you don't need another culinary apple? As an ornamental tree it is fabulous. If we haven't had too much frost, I often wire its fruit into my Christmas wreath.

[Morris]

This is the first time I've managed to upload a photo, very proud of myself! Now, must do some actual WORK!!

Crab Apple Red Sentinel (last year - this year fruiting is very sparse  )

[Jayb]

Thanks, they both look gorgeous, love your picture what a beauty. I like the idea of having fruits last into the next year, John Downie drop early if they are not picked.

[Palustris]

There actually is a Crab apple called Gorgeous. Nice big red fruits, taste good too, even raw.