Description

ARKANSAS BLACK APPLE

The Arkansas Black Apple is an outstanding choice for hunters and landowners who want a dependable late-season food source. In Pennsylvania, this variety attracts deer throughout November with heavy crops of crisp, flavorful apples. In addition, it is one of the most disease-resistant apples we grow and performs exceptionally well in no-spray orchards.

Arkansas Black shows excellent resistance to apple scab, cedar apple rust, and fire blight. Although it can develop powdery mildew in areas with excessive moisture, we have not experienced problems when trees are protected with cages instead of tree tubes.

Why Choose Arkansas Black Apple?

• Heavy annual fruit production
• Excellent late-season deer attraction
• Crisp, flavorful apples for fresh eating
• Outstanding resistance to apple scab, cedar apple rust, and fire blight
• Performs well in no-spray orchards
• Hardy in USDA Zones 5–8

History and Fruit Quality

Arkansas Black originated in Benton County, Arkansas, during the mid-1800s. Since then, it has earned a reputation for dependable production and excellent fruit quality.

Even during years with heavy insect pressure, this variety continues to produce impressive crops. By early November, the apples develop outstanding flavor and a crisp texture. As a result, they are excellent for fresh eating and long-term storage.

Every Arkansas Black tree we sell is grafted from the original variety. Therefore, each tree produces the same fruit quality, growth habit, and disease resistance as the parent tree.

Tree Sizes

2-Year Tree (4–6 Feet)

• 1/2″–5/8″ trunk diameter
• Extensive root system
• May have multiple branches
• Pruned to approximately 66 inches for shipping
• Up to 15 trees per shipping box
• Free local pickup available in Pennsylvania

2-Year Select Tree (4–6 Feet)

• Largest trees available
• Feathered branching
• Larger trunk diameter, approaching 3/4″
• Pruned to approximately 66 inches for shipping
• Up to 14 select trees per shipping box
• Free local pickup available

Rootstock Benefits

We graft Arkansas Black onto a vigorous, cold-hardy standard rootstock that grows into a full-size tree between 20 and 30 feet tall. As a result, the tree produces larger crops and enjoys a longer productive life.

Furthermore, the deep root system improves drought tolerance and anchors the tree securely. The roots also reach nutrients deep in the soil. Because of this, this rootstock is an excellent choice for wildlife plantings.

Pollination Requirements

Arkansas Black has sterile pollen, so plant at least two different apple or crabapple varieties nearby for successful pollination.

Recommended pollinators include:

• Grams Gift Crabapple
• Other apple varieties
• Other crabapple varieties

Because Arkansas Black blooms during the mid- to late-season, it pairs well with many other apple varieties.

Planting Tips

For the best results:

• Plant in full sun with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight.
• Choose well-drained soil with a pH of 5.8–7.0.
• Space trees about 20 feet apart.
• Protect trees with 5-foot cages.
• Install a breathable weed mat around each tree.
• Wrap the trunk with aluminum window screen to prevent rodent damage.

Shipping and Pickup

Bare-root trees ship from early March through the last Monday in April while they remain dormant. Finally, choose your preferred shipping date during checkout. Free local pickup is also available in Pennsylvania by appointment during the spring pickup season.

For More Information Visit:

• Apple Trees for Deer
• Tree Planting Guide
• Apple Pollination Guide
• Rootstock Information
• Shipping and Pickup Info