How to Grow Northwind Apple
Wikimedia Commons
Northwind Apple
Malus domestica 'Northwind'
treeNorthwind is a cold-hardy, disease-resistant apple tree developed by the University of Minnesota for northern climates. It produces medium-sized red apples with a tart-sweet flavor suitable for fresh eating and cooking. The tree is compact, reaching 15-20 feet at maturity, and is known for exceptional winter hardiness and resistance to common apple diseases.
When should you plant Northwind Apple in your zone?
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Example Northwind Apple timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Northwind Apple
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Northwind Apple
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Northwind Apple dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 2-5, bred specifically for cold northern climates
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Get my Northwind Apple timeline →Growth Stages
Bare Root/Nursery Transplant
First year after plantingYoung whip or grafted tree, typically 2-3 feet tall with minimal branching at planting
Plant in early spring or fall when dormant. Remove any flower buds first year to direct energy to root establishment. Stake tree for support in first 1-2 years.
Establishment & Branch Development
Years 2-3Tree develops primary scaffold branches; foliage fills in; minimal flowering
Prune to develop open center or leader form. Remove narrow-angle crotches. Water deeply 1-2 times weekly. Apply 3-4 inches of mulch around base, keeping 6 inches from trunk.
Pre-Fruiting
Years 3-4Tree reaches 8-12 feet; develops more complete canopy; some flowers may appear but fruit sets minimally
Continue structural pruning. Remove any fruit that forms to conserve energy. Monitor for pests and diseases; prune out any diseased wood immediately.
Flowering & Fruit Development
Spring through summer, years 4+ onwardAbundant white blossoms in spring; small green fruits follow pollination; fruits grow throughout summer
Thin fruit to one every 4-6 inches for larger apples. Maintain consistent moisture; water 1-2 inches weekly. This variety is self-fertile but cross-pollination improves yield. Apply dormant oil spray in early spring.
Fruit Maturation & Harvest
Late summer through fallFruits develop red color and full size; sugar content increases; ready for picking in fall
Harvest when fruits reach full color and detach easily with a gentle twist. Northwind apples mature August-September depending on latitude. Store in cool conditions (32-40°F) for extended shelf life.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Use red sticky spheres hung in tree May-July; spinosad or kaolin clay spray; remove infested fruit and destroy
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Pheromone traps for monitoring; spinosad sprays; remove infested fruit; maintain good sanitation of fallen fruit
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Kaolin clay spray in spring; hand removal of infested fruit; encourage natural predators
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Dormant oil spray in early spring; neem oil; predatory mites; adequate tree vigor reduces infestation
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Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray during bloom; hand removal of infested leaves
Uses
Fresh eating and storage
CulinaryNorthwind apples have a balanced tart-sweet flavor suitable for both fresh eating and extended storage. Their excellent keeping quality makes them ideal for winter storage in cold cellars. [source]
Cooking and baking
CulinaryThe firm flesh and good acid balance make Northwind excellent for pies, sauces, and cider. They hold their shape well when cooked. [source]
Nutritional health
MedicinalApples are rich in fiber (particularly pectin), vitamin C, and antioxidants. Regular consumption supports digestive and cardiovascular health. [source]
Pollinator and wildlife support
WildlifeThe abundant spring blossoms provide excellent nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinators. Fallen fruit supports wildlife in fall and winter. [source]
Cider and juice production
HouseholdNorthwind apples can be pressed for cider or fresh juice, taking advantage of their balanced flavor profile and storage capability. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Pick apples when fully colored and they detach easily with a gentle twist. Northwind apples typically ripen in late August to September depending on location. Avoid pulling downward; twist gently upward. Handle carefully to avoid bruising. For storage, keep at 32-40°F with 85-95% humidity; properly stored fruit can keep 4-6 months. Use earlier-picked apples for cooking; longer-stored apples are better for fresh eating.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Northwind was specifically developed by the University of Minnesota to survive zone 2 winters with temperatures dropping to -40°F, making it one of the hardiest apple varieties available.
- 🌱 The variety is notably resistant to cedar apple rust, powdery mildew, and fire blight—common scourges in northern orchards—requiring less chemical management than traditional varieties.
- 🌱 Northwind is self-fertile but produces significantly better yields when cross-pollinated with other apples, especially other Minnesota-bred varieties like Haralson or Honeycrisp.
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