McIntosh Apple

Malus domestica 'Red McIntosh'

Grandpa's Choice™ Red McIntosh is one of the all-time favorites for some people. Red McIntosh is an early season apple with very aromatic, flavorful, white, juicy flesh. It is somewhat firm, but only will keep for shorter periods during the fall and early winter. It has a steely-red skin that is distinctive looking to match its very distinctive flavor. It is only medium large in size, but sets abundant crops.

Pricing

Height

12-16 Feet

Spread

12-16 Feet

Homeowner Growing and Maintenance Tips

Red McIntosh is a very vigorous, spreading tree. It blooms quite early and is a good pollinizer for other early varieties. It is susceptible to scab and fire blight. Thin heavily for best size. McIntosh is well suited for cooler climates where its best characteristics shine. In warmer areas it will be much softer and less flavorful

A Little History

McIntosh came from Ontario, Canada around 1798 and was a hit with the settlers in the Northeast where it is one of the most important varieties. Grandpa always grew some "Macs", but he knew that the best came from New York and farther east where they seemed better adapted. Grandma loved to eat Mac's fresh, and sometimes used them in pies and sauce for their unique flavor.

USDA Hardiness Zone 3-8

Characteristics & Attributes

Bloom Character

•	Early blooming
•	Pollinizer needed
•	Thin early for size

Fruit Characteristics

•	Medium size fruit

Growth Rate/Habit

•	Very vigorous
•	Early to bear
•	Spreading habit

Harvest Period

•	Late summer

Other Attributes

•	Somewhat spicy
•	Sub-acid flavor
•	Very juicy
•	Complex flavor
•	Grandpa's Choice™

Site Requirements

•	Full Sun
•	Very hardy

Skill Required

•	Easy to grow

Uses

•	High dessert quality
•	Juice or Cider
•	Cooking or baking
•	Good for pies
•	Good for sauce