Cortland apple trees

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• Picking season: Late
• Self-fertility: Partially self-fertile
• Pollination group: 3

Developed from McIntosh, Cortland is one of the most widely-grown Mac-style apples.

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Cortland apple trees for sale

Pre-order for delivery in spring 2027

• Semi-dwarf, 1-year bare-root tree $39.95

  Mature height: 8ft-12ft after 10 years
  Semi-dwarf rootstock
  

  Out of stock
  

All about Cortland apple trees

Cortland was one of the first varieties to be developed from the popular McIntosh apple. It is a cross between an old southern variety, Ben Davis, pollinated by McIntosh. However as is often the case with McIntosh crosses, Cortland is very much in the McIntosh mould, with the characteristic crimson red skin and glistening sweet white flesh, although it does have a more rustic appeal than some other Mac crosses.

Cortland is a reliable and heavy-cropping variety. The apples are generally larger than McIntosh, but the sweet perfumed flavor is similar. Fruit quality from markets can be quite variable because Cortland does not keep especially well, but this is easily remedied by growing your own. Although primarily an apple for eating fresh, Cortland is also useful in the kitchen, and cut slices don't brown quickly.

Redcort - shown in our main photo - is a sport of Cortland with similar characteristics but a deeper crimson skin.

How to grow

Cortland is an easy apple to grow in most cooler climates, with no particular vices.

Advice on fruit tree pollination.

History

Raised at the New York State Experiment Station, Geneva, 1898. McIntosh x Ben Davis.

Cortland characteristics

• What level of gardening skill is needed to grow Cortland?Beginner
• Is Cortland self-fertile?Partially self-fertile
• What flowering group is Cortland?3
• Is Cortland good for pollinating others?Average
• What season do you pick Cortland?Late
• UsesEating freshCulinary
• How long can you keep Cortland in a fridge?2-3 weeks
• What is the overall disease resistance of Cortland?Good
• How resistant is Cortland to fire blight?Some susceptibility
• Is Cortland resistant to scab?Some susceptibility
• Is Cortland resistant to cedar apple rust?Some susceptibility
• What is the USDA hardiness zone for Cortland?Zone 4 (-34C)
• Summer maximum temperaturesCool ( 20-24C / 68-75F)Warm (25-30C / 76-85F)Cold (< 20C / 67F)
• Where does Cortland originate from?United States
• When was Cortland first introduced?1900 - 1949
• Fruit colorCrimson

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