What varieties of Apple trees would be best for a small orchard in my area?

I live in north eastern Montana about 50 miles south of the canadian border. Temperatures during the year go from 100 degrees in the summer to 40 degrees below zero in the winter. I have a couple of Praire Spy trees that seem to be doing alright but I want to have the biggest apples possible in the shortest growing period. It has been known to freeze here up to May 20th and it has snowed on the first of June some years.

What varieties of Apple trees would be best for a small orchard in my area?
'King' apples are big fruit and tough trees. Good keepers too.





Is the 'Prairie Spy' the same as a 'Northern Spy'? If not the 'Northern Spy' is a lovely apple...I'm not sure on it's cold tolerance.





According to my Sunset Western Gardener here are a few potential choices:


'Beverly Hills' , 'Honeycrisp' , recommended for Minnesotta,


'Norland', a Canadian special, 'Summerred', and 'Wealthy'.





Mmmm I love apples!!!
Reply:contact the experimental and research farm in Morden, Manitoba. they have been developing flowers, fruits and vegetables there for many decades that are specially meant for our harsh canadian climates.
Reply:I would contact the local extension agency. They will be able to tell you what will thrive in your area. Another good place would be a large local nursery or even a local orchard if there is one. It sounds like your growing span is short, so good luck with your hunt for a good variety of apple.


We are planting apple trees in 2007, and our climate is great for lots of varieties, and we have chosen mutsu and jonagold.
Reply:idk

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