Vibrant Crabapple ~ An Alluring Attractor for Pollinators
Plan your heirloom apple orchard with a twist - add Dolgo crabapples for an extraordinary pollination boost and tempting fruit. Unlike most crabapples, these aren't just for the birds.
In my research, I stumbled upon the Dolgo crabapple, a mighty pollinator that also produces scrumptious fruit. A double win! These apples have an acidic, sweet-tart flavor reminiscent of a sugar-coated cranberry, with large-for-a-crabapple but small-by-apple-standards fruit, around 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
Each petite, olive-shaped fruit boasts a bright red skin and a crisp, juicy texture. The skin's vibrant color bleeds into the flesh as you bite into it, adding a pop of color to anything it's used in.
Scott Farm, a nearby heirloom orchard, points out that "Their best use is in sauces, sorbets, chutney or as a condiment for meat or poultry. They make a beautiful rose-colored jelly. During harvest, the crew will often use these crabapples to suck on for a boost to help finish filling that last apple bin late in the day." They're a refreshing treat after a long day in the sun.
Originated from Kazakhstan, the Dolgo crab apple tree is one of the hardiest available, capable of withstanding cold as low as -40 degrees F. It's also incredibly disease-resistant, and its extended blooming period makes it an excellent pollinator for diverse orchards.
The fruit ripens in August and September but can last well into December in mild years. In winter, they're a mysterious mid-winter delight for deer. A perfect choice for planting near deer hunting plots, as it serves double duty – filling your cider cellar and freezer.
Where to Find Dolgo Crabapples
Contrary to other orchard choices, Dolgo crabapple trees are abundantly available. Local nurseries in central Vermont typically carry the trees, and since they're so popular as an ornamental tree, they're widely accessible at well-stocked nurseries.
If your nursery doesn't offer heirloom varieties, you may need to search online for retailers that do. Some online options for buying Dolgo crabapple trees include:
- Nursery Depot offers Dolgo crabapple trees with free shipping on certain promotions. Check their website or reach out to them for information.4
- Wayfair Gardens may offer Dolgo crabapple trees, but they are not specifically listed on their website. You may need to contact them to inquire.5
For a growing list of online retailers selling Dolgo crabapple trees, check out this resource. With diligent searching, you're sure to find a Dolgo crabapple tree that fits your needs.
Savoring Dolgo Crabapples
Dolgo crabapples make delectable additions to various dishes. Here are a few creative ways to use them:
- Jellies and Jams: Dolgo crabapples' vibrant color and tart-sweet flavor make them excellent for jellies and fruit jams.7
- Apple Sauces: Mix chopped dolgo crabapples with regular apples to make a unique apple sauce with a twist.8
- Chutneys: Add dolgo crabapples to traditional chutney recipes for a refreshing twist.9
- Wine and Mead: Don't let these tasty crabapples go to waste – turn them into delicious wine or mead.10
With their hardiness, extraordinary flavor, and versatility, Dolgo crabapples are an outstanding addition to any orchard or garden. Start planning your orchard today, and don't forget to consider these incredible crabapples!
Incorporating Dolgo crabapples into your home-and-garden lifestyle offers a unique blend of gardening, winemaking, and a delightful twist to your lifestyle. Their tart-sweet flavor makes them perfect for crafting jellies, jams, apple sauces, chutneys, or even winemaking.
In your quest for a versatile, hardy, and disease-resistant fruit tree, the Dolgo crabapple tree is readily available at local nurseries or online retailers such as Nursery Depot or Heritage Fruit Trees for a delectable addition to your heirloom orchard and garden.
