The Golden Dorsett Apple Tree offers a unique combination of attributes that are beneficial to growers. They can withstand very warm temperatures, as well as resist damage from frost, even down to -10 degrees F. Golden Dorsett Apple Trees also need fewer than 100 chill hours. All of these qualities make Golden Dorsetts a great choice to grow in the home garden. They grow to a height and width of 20 feet, prefer full sun, and are easy to grow and maintain.
The Golden Dorsett Apple Tree is an early producer that grows large, crisp, sweet yellow apples that are ripe in June and July. They will thrive in full sun, in USDA Zones 5 to 9, and in sandy-loam soil that drains well. Golden Dorsett Apple Trees require a pollinator, but many apple varieties will do the job. The Golden Dorsett Apple Tree is a popular tree in home gardens due to its early production, wide climate tolerances, and delicious, crunchy apples.
In order to help your Golden Dorsett Apple Tree maintain a sturdy shape and vigorous spring growth year after year, prune in December when the tree is dormant. Prune suckers, and any branches growing toward the tree center. Prune new trees to have a single central leader, and an open branching center. Always cut away any dead limbs, and remove trimmed branches from the tree’s immediate area.
As The Golden Dorsett Apple Tree grows and produces fruit, check apples for tiny holes that could indicate the presence of Codling Moths. Codling Moths are more common on the west coast, but they can damage apples and affect tree health. Cut open suspect fruit and inspect the flesh for tunneling or other evidence of Codling Moth larvae activity. The moths can be controlled with Codling Moth traps, and pesticide sprays. If you live in an area known to have these pests, proactive moth traps are a good idea and can effectively protect apples from damage.
Fruit & Harvesting
Golden Dorsett Apple Trees can produce fruit in their first year. Golden Dorsett Apples have a smooth, sweet, luscious taste that blends notes of vanilla with a slight tartness, but without the sharp acidity of other summer apples. They are firm, have crisp juicy flesh, and are great for eating fresh, canning, and baking.
Golden Dorsett Apple Trees put forth a profusion of fragrant white and pink blooms in spring. The fruit grows quickly and can be harvested in the summer, between June and July. Ripe Golden Dorsett Apples are deep yellow with as much as 50% red blush. When tasted they should be juicy and sweet. If the apples are sour or somewhat dry, allow them to ripen for another few days and do another taste test. All of the apples will not ripen at once, and many ripe fruit can be found among others that need more time.
Growing Zones
Advice
Golden Dorsett Apple Trees require a pollinator to set and grow their gourmet fruit. One tried and true pollinator for Golden Dorsett Apple Trees is the Anna Apple Tree. If you already have an Anna Apple, then the Golden Dorsett Apple Tree is a great choice to pair with it. Other summer Apples can also be used as companion trees to grow within 50 feet of a new Golden Dorsett Apple Tree.
Pink Pearl and Zestar Apples will also pollinate the Golden Dorsett Apple Tree. Another option is to plant a vigorous white-bloom crab apple tree, which can also serve as a pollinator for this variety. Crab apples are very easy to grow, provide habitat and food for wildlife, and can make a fun addition to the landscape.
FAQs
Is it true that all summer apples are tart?
Many summer apples do have a berry-like tartness, but the Golden Dorsett Apple is the exception. The flavor is sweet and mellow, and has even been described as having a hint of vanilla.
Can you cook with the wood from a Golden Dorsett Apple Tree?
Yes. Apple wood, including the wood from the Golden Dorsett Apple Tree, is prized by outdoor cooks for its sweet, savory smoke aroma and clean burning nature.
Where can I grow a Golden Dorsett Apple Tree?
Golden Dorsett Apple Trees are suited for growing in the ground in USDA plant hardiness Zones 5 to 9. They need below 100 hours of chill time, and can take freezing and relatively high heat summers.
How long can Golden Dorsett Apples be stored?
An apple’s ability to last in storage is one of the most valued benefits of the fruit. Fresh picked apples stored in a cool pantry or cellar can remain fresh for 4 to 6 days. A refrigerated apple is good for 4 to 6 weeks. If you want to keep apples for longer, they can be canned for long-term storage.
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