I've had an awesome harvest of Discovery apples this year, picked in mid-September. They're super sweet and make amazing apple juice that looks like fruit punch! Now, I'm really eager to grow more of these apple trees. I've saved some seeds, but I heard that apple seeds might not produce the same type of apples. So, I'm considering growing a cutting instead. Is that the right move? If I go down that route, do I need to graft it onto a different rootstock? I'm really new to this, so any guidance on starting with either seeds or cuttings would be appreciated!
3 Answers
You're on the right track! To get more Discovery apples, you should look into grafting a cutting from your existing tree onto a rootstock. Basically, all Discovery apple trees are clones from other Discovery trees, so that’s the way to go. If you’re looking for a quicker option, though, you might just want to buy a new Discovery tree from a nursey. They're pretty affordable and much easier than grafting. Good luck!
I just ordered more Discovery trees online! You can find bare root trees that will ship out in November. Make sure you soak the roots for a bit before planting them. Check out J Parker’s—they have a great deal where you can get them for £15 each if you order two. By the way, are you sure yours are Discovery? Mine are ready to pick by mid-August, and they’re definitely sweet. Happy planting!
Good call on checking the variety! Different conditions can affect when they ripen.
I’d suggest just buying another Discovery tree! They’re usually available at garden centers, and you can also ask for a different variety that can cross-pollinate with your Discovery tree. If you plant another type, you’ll not only get more apples but also maybe different flavors. Grafting is a fun project, but if you want apples sooner rather than later, a new tree is the way to go!
Yeah, I think mine are Discovery too! Just wanted to make sure. Thanks for the tip on soaking the roots.