Dorset Plants
"Dorsett Golden" is a variety of apple tree that, like the "Anna" apple, is well-suited to warm climates with mild winters. The Dorsett Golden apple tree was discovered in the Bahamas and has become popular in areas with similar climates, such as the southern United States, due to its low chilling requirement and adaptability to warmer regions.
Characteristics of Dorsett Golden Apple Plants
-
Chill Requirements: The Dorsett Golden apple tree requires only about 250-300 chilling hours (the number of hours below 45°F or 7°C) to set fruit. This low chilling requirement makes it an excellent choice for regions that do not experience prolonged cold winters.
-
Size and Growth Habit: The Dorsett Golden apple tree is a medium-sized tree that typically grows to about 10-20 feet (3-6 meters) tall, depending on whether it is a standard or dwarf variety. It has a spreading habit with a rounded canopy and dense foliage.
-
Fruit: The apples produced by the Dorsett Golden tree are medium to large in size, with a yellow skin that sometimes has a pink blush when exposed to sufficient sunlight. The flesh is firm, crisp, and sweet, with a flavor profile that is somewhat similar to that of the Golden Delicious apple, making it excellent for fresh eating as well as cooking.
-
Blooming and Harvesting: The Dorsett Golden apple tree blooms very early in the season, typically in late winter or early spring. It is one of the first apple varieties to bloom in warm climates. The fruit usually matures in early summer, around June to July, depending on the local climate.
-
Pollination: Dorsett Golden apple trees are partially self-fertile, meaning they can produce fruit on their own. However, for a more abundant yield, cross-pollination with another apple variety that blooms at the same time is recommended. The "Anna" apple tree is a good pollination partner because it also has a low chilling requirement and blooms around the same time.