We have one Hubbardston tree. The apples have been handsome and relatively
large. The flavor is well-balanced, on the milder, sweeter side of sub-acid.
Our tree has been annual, and one of our most reliable croppers. The apples
start off nice and shiny, but they do get greasy in storage.
Our current favorite in the reliable, annual red apple category is King
David. It is on the tart side, but is much more, with a rich, spicy flavor.
The apples aren't large. I was concerned that they might ripen too late here
in the Finger Lakes, but that hasn't been the case.
Decided against Ellison years ago, based in part on the anise flavor
reputation.
It's Murph again... I got Zestars like crazy this year. Jeeziz !!
Have any of you grown Hubbardston Nonesuch or Ellison's Orange apples?
I'm going to plant another 30 apple trees this spring, mostly Heirloom and
some 'new' varieties.
As you probably know, apple growth habits of a given variety can vary quite a
bit with soil, water and climate. Reading catalog / orchard descriptions and
opinions is almost a crap shoot. So, I'm interested in these two varieties.
Does the Ellison really smell like anise seed? All the Hubbardstons I've seen
are large and handsome; are they?
Also, I'm looking for a good reliable annual cropper of red fruit. Any
variety come to mind.
I value your opinions more than any text book ever written, or catalog.....
Please illuminate me.
Murph
Re: [nafex] Hubbardston - Ellison's (Richard),
John Henderson, 09/23/2014