Zestar! Apple
Flavor Profile
- Sprightly sweet-tart with accents of brown sugar; juicy, light-crisp texture ideal for fresh eating and culinary uses like baked goods, sauces, desserts, and salads2.
Appearance
- Medium to large (7–8 cm diameter), round shape.
- green ground overlaid with 60–85 % bright rosy-red blush and scattered tan lenticels.
Harvest & Storage
- Ripens early, from late August into early September.
- Maintains crispness and flavor well, even without refrigeration and the flavor even improves after picking.
Tree Characteristics
- Vigorous growth habit with proven cold hardiness for northern climates.
- Thrives in USDA Zones 3–7 under full sun and well-drained soils; benefits from regular moisture and annual pruning to optimize air circulation.
Disease Resistance & Care
- Moderately susceptible to apple scab and fire blight.
Pollination
- Self-sterile; plant alongside early to mid-season cultivars (e.g., Paula Red, Honeycrisp) for effective cross-pollination.
Origin & Heritage
Developed as Minnewashta at the University of Minnesota’s Horticultural Resource Center and released in 1999 under the trademark Zestar! The cultivar resulted from a cross of State Fair × MN 1691, marking a breakthrough in early-season apple breeding.
