It was first raised in England during the 1870s and soon became one of the most popular crab apple varieties. John Downie crab apples were named so after a nurseryman in Scotland who was a friend of Mr Edward Holmes. This is basically a mould that forms which can affect the growth of leaves, flowers, and the fruit itself. Powdery Mildew: Should you notice a white powder on your crab apple leaves then you may well have powdery mildew.This can only be dealt with by removing any signs of disease and then burning the offcuts. Signs of blossom wilt include flowers shrivelling up and early drop and you may notice leaves turning brown too. Blossom Wilt: Blossom wilt is caused by a fungal infection which can also affect cherry and plum trees.In most cases though, aphids can be controlled by attracting predators such as lacewings and hover flies. Leaves can become curled or twisted and can lead to poorly developed shoots. Aphids: In extreme cases, aphids can cause damage to the leaves of apple trees.Best Growing Position: Full Sun & Part ShadeĪs with most fruit types, John Downie crab apple trees can attract some apple tree pests and diseases.When To Plant Out: Any time of the year. ![]() ![]() Best Feature: The best apple for crab apple jelly.At their highest they can reach 12 metres tall but there are many more modest dwarf varieties. The height and spread of crab apple trees will depend on the type you purchase. On average, Malus John Downie crab apple trees will bear fruit between 2 and 5 years. This beautiful variety of tree is fairly easy to grow and can produce plentiful crop sizes. The fruit itself looks a bit like an upside-down pear and its colours are a mixture of red and orange.Ĭrab apples will be ready to pick in the Autumn and any left on the tree will be enjoyed by the wildlife. The John Downie crab apple tree has green foliage and in autumn this has hints of reds and oranges. The white blossom signals the start of spring and the 5 petalled flowers are very popular for the early pollinators. Pink buds on John Downie crab apple trees open up to vivid white flowers in April, sometimes earlier if the weather is mild. As well as enjoying the fruit itself, you will be able to enjoy the hints of autumn foliage that flourish during harvesting time. The apples are oval in appearance and once they are ready to pick in the autumn, make wonderful crab apple jelly. Ideal for parks and new housing developments for families to enjoy picking the fruits and their seasonal features.The John Downie variety is one of the most well-known crab apples, not least due to its overall quality and taste. The wonderful crab apples remain on the branches long into the winter, ready to be picked and pulped into fresh apple sauce or desserts for the Christmas table. This Pectin is also what gels sugar, making jams and jellies without the need for animal gelatine. These apples are very flavoursome and have higher levels of the starch Pectin, making them firm and crunchy. During the late summer, the John Downie provides an abundance of large fruit brushed with the colours of rich marmalade and vibrant red. ![]() The summer foliage is a pleasant glossy green, which mellows into buttery yellow as the summer fades. ![]() They are popular for bees, encouraging pollination of other Apple trees and plants in the area. These are tinged with wonderful shades of water-washed pink and subtle lilac from the still opening buds. At the end of Spring, this Malus produces beautiful white flowers that envelope the entire canopy. This charming Malus is perhaps one of the most popular due to its fruit. He named the tree after his good friend and fellow nurseryman John Downie in his honour. Edward enjoyed the flavoursome taste of the fruit, leading to its commercial supply. Raised by Edward Holmes at Whittington, England during the 1870s.
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