Fireside Apple

Flavor Profile

• Crisp, sweet, and juicy with hints of banana and balanced acidity.

Appearance

• Fruit size: Medium, 2.5–3.0 inches (6.4–7.6 cm) diameter.
• Skin: Bright scarlet blush over yellow ground, sometimes with an orange flush and light russeting around the stem2.
• Flesh: Creamy-white, firm, and crisp, slow to brown.

Harvest & Storage

• Ripening: Mid to late September (early October in cooler climates).
• Storage life: 2–3 months at 32–40°F; best flavor after the first frost and within the first six weeks of storage when chilled.

Tree Characteristics

• Habit: Medium vigor with a spreading to upright form.
• Hardiness: USDA Zones 3–8, tolerates temperatures down to –40 °F.

Disease Resistance & Care

• Exceptional resistance to cedar-apple rust; moderate susceptibility to apple scab and fire blight. Annual dormant pruning promotes air circulation and reduces disease pressure.
• Cultural needs: Full sun, well-drained loamy soil; regular irrigation until established.

Pollination

• Self-sterile; cross-pollinate with mid-season bloomers such as Honeycrisp or Haralson.
• Unsuitable pollinator for Connell Red.

Origin & Heritage

• Developed at the University of Minnesota’s breeding program and introduced in 1943.
• Named “Fireside” in homage to President Roosevelt’s “Fireside Chats.”
• Parentage: McIntosh × Longfield