Blenheim Orange Apples: Rich Flavour and Timeless Appeal

Malus domestica

The Blenheim Orange apple tree is a historic and much-loved fruit tree, prized for its distinctive nutty flavour and versatility. This dual-purpose apple is excellent for fresh eating and cooking, making it a great choice for any orchard or garden. Whether you want to grow apples for homemade desserts, purees, or fresh eating, the Blenheim Orange apple is a rewarding variety. This guide explores everything you need to know about this unique cultivar, from its origins and growth habits to pollination requirements and care tips.

The Blenheim Orange apple has a fascinating history dating back to 1740, when it was discovered in a suburb of Woodstock, Oxfordshire. Known initially as Kempster’s Pippin, after its discoverer, George Kempster, the apple was later renamed Blenheim Orange due to its proximity to the famous Blenheim Palace. This old English apple variety quickly gained popularity for its large, round fruit and superb flavour. Over the centuries, it has remained a favourite among apple growers and earned the prestigious RHS Award of Garden Merit.

This apple variety is known for its distinctive nutty flavour and firm texture. The apples have a yellow-green skin, becoming yellow and flushed orange-red as they ripen. Their crumbly texture makes them excellent for cooking, as they hold their shape well in pies and tarts. The Blenheim Orange apple is triploid, requiring two other apple trees nearby for pollination. Despite its biennial habit, where it may produce fruit in alternate years, it remains a highly sought-after apple for eating and cooking.

The Blenheim Orange apple tree is very vigorous, capable of reaching a substantial height and spread. When grown on MM106 rootstock, it becomes a strong, semi-dwarf tree suitable for most gardens. Due to its size and growth habit, it is best suited to larger spaces with room to develop fully. If you have a smaller garden, consider training it as a fan or espalier.

As a triploid apple, the Blenheim Orange is in pollination group 3, requiring at least two other apple varieties nearby to produce fruit. Suitable pollinators include other apples from pollination group 3, such as Cox’s Orange Pippin and Egremont Russet. Planting your apple tree near other compatible varieties will ensure good fruit production. Please check out my article here for more information on Apple pollinating groups.

The Blenheim Orange apple tree thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It is suitable for northerly and higher rainfall areas, making it an excellent choice for UK gardens. The tree should be planted during the dormant season, from late autumn to early spring. Bare root trees are often the best option for establishing a strong root system.

Regular pruning is essential to maintain a healthy tree and encourage good fruiting. The best time to prune is in winter when the tree is dormant. Remove dead or diseased wood, thin out overcrowded branches, and shape the tree to allow light and air circulation. Since this variety tends to produce light crops of apples due to its biennial habit, careful pruning can help regulate fruit production.

Blenheim Orange is a relatively hardy variety but can be susceptible to apple scab and mildew in damp conditions. Good airflow around the tree and proper pruning will help prevent disease. If your tree is affected, remove infected leaves and consider using organic treatments to control fungal infections.

Blenheim Orange apples are ready to harvest from early October and can be stored from October to January. When picked at the right time, these apples develop a characteristic nutty flavour that improves in storage. They are excellent for cooking, making delicious apple charlotte, crumbles, and pies.

Key Points to Remember:

• The Blenheim Orange is a historic variety discovered in 1740 near Blenheim Palace
• It produces large, round apples with yellow-green skin, becoming yellow and flushed orange-red when ripe
• The apples have a distinctive nutty flavour and are excellent for eating and cooking
• It is a triploid variety in pollination group 3, requiring two other apple trees for pollination
• The tree is vigorous and well-suited to larger gardens, mainly when grown on MM106 rootstock
• Regular pruning and care are needed to manage its biennial habit and prevent apple scab and mildew
• Harvest apples from early October and store them until January for the best flavour
• Blenheim Orange apple trees are available to buy online as bare-root or potted trees

The Blenheim Orange apple tree is a fantastic choice for anyone who loves growing fruit. Whether you want a dual-purpose apple for eating and cooking or a heritage variety with a fascinating history, this tree is a rewarding addition to any garden.

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Q: What is a Blenheim Orange Apple Tree?

A: The Blenheim Orange Apple Tree is a traditional variety that produces delicious, dual-purpose fruit. It’s excellent for both cooking and eating fresh.

Q: How do I pollinate my Blenheim Orange apple tree?

A: The Blenheim Orange apple tree is a triploid and belongs to pollination group 3, which means it cannot pollinate other trees and needs two compatible non-triploid apple varieties nearby for successful pollination. Planting it with two different apple trees from the same or adjacent pollination groups will ensure a reliable fruit crop.

Q: Can I grow a Blenheim Orange Apple Tree in a pot?

A: Yes! A dwarf version of the Blenheim Orange Apple Tree can thrive in a pot. Ensure the container is large enough to provide proper drainage for healthy root growth.

Q: When can I expect to harvest my Blenheim Orange apples?

A: You can typically harvest Blenheim Orange apples in late September. This makes them perfect for autumn baking or enjoying fresh.

Q: What are the best uses for Blenheim Orange apples?

A: These apples are a fantastic dual-purpose variety. They are excellent for cooking, producing a rich flavour in pies and sauces, but they are also sweet and enjoyable as a dessert apple.

Q: Are Blenheim Orange Apple Trees resistant to diseases?

A: They are generally hardy but can be susceptible to canker and other common apple tree diseases. Regular care, pruning, and good airflow around the tree will help maintain its health.

Q: How do I plant my Blenheim Orange Apple Tree?

A: Choose a sunny position with well-drained soil. Dig a hole large enough to accommodate the roots, place the tree in the hole, and backfill with soil. Water well after planting to help establish strong roots.

Q: How should I feed my Blenheim Orange Apple Tree?

A: Feed your tree in early spring with a balanced fruit tree feed to support healthy growth and fruit production. Adding organic matter around the base can also improve soil fertility.

Q: Where can I buy a Blenheim Orange Apple Tree?

A: You can purchase Blenheim Orange Apple Trees from garden centres and online retailers. Ensure you buy from a reputable source for a healthy tree suited to your growing conditions.

Q: Is the Blenheim Orange Apple Tree recognised for its quality?

A: Yes! The Blenheim Orange Apple Tree has been awarded the RHS Award of Garden Merit, highlighting its reliability and excellent fruit quality.

Q: What should I consider before planting a Blenheim Orange Apple Tree?

A: Consider the available space and whether you can pollinate another apple tree nearby. Depending on your garden size, decide between a standard or dwarf variety.