Adams Crabapple as a Pollinator: Important Methods for Growing an Adams Crabapple Tree
An ‘Adams’ crabapple is the ideal choice if you’re searching for a smaller tree, under 25 feet (8 meters), that will make an interesting garden specimen throughout the seasons. Even though the tree is beautiful, growing an Adams crabapple is worthwhile because it is an excellent choice for pollinating other apple varieties. Would you like to use Adams crabapple as a pollinator? Continue reading for information on caring for and growing Adams crabapples.
Adams Crabapple as a Source of Pollen
Why are Adams crabapples the best apples to pollinate other apples? Although they are in the same genus as apples, Malus, crabapple trees are members of the Rose family. The difference is arbitrary, despite some minor disagreement on the matter. The only true difference between apples and crabapples is their respective fruit sizes. Stated differently, a Malus tree bearing fruit measuring two inches (5 cm) or more in diameter is referred to as an apple tree, while a tree bearing fruit measuring less than two inches (5 cm) in diameter is called a crabapple. Apples benefit greatly from cross-pollinating crabapple trees because of their close relationship.
This crabapple can be used to pollinate the following apples because it blooms in the middle to late season:
- Braeburn
- Crispin
- Business
- Fuji
- Granny Smith
- Pure
- York
Planting trees should be done no more than 50 feet (15 meters) apart.
Growing an Adams Crabapple: A Guide
Before they leaf out, Adams crabapples, which have a smaller, denser, rounded habit, bloom in the early to midspring with masses of burgundy blossoms. The tiny, vividly red fruit that the blossoms give way to is left on the tree all winter long. The leaves turn a golden yellow in the fall. Given that the Adams crabapple tree is disease- and cold-resistant, growing one requires little upkeep. Growable zones for Adams crabapples are 4 through 8. Trees need full sun and soil that is moist, well-draining, and slightly acidic. Adams crabapples are easy-care trees that require little upkeep. Some crabapples drop their fruit in the fall and need to be raked up, but these crabapples remain on the tree all winter long, drawing in birds and small mammals to reduce the amount of care you need to give your Adams crabapple.
