Egremont Russet Apple Tree: The Heritage Variety Worth Growing

Malus domestica

The Egremont Russet apple is a distinctive heritage variety that has delighted fruit lovers for generations. With its rough, golden-brown skin and nutty flavour, this russet apple stands apart from the more common, shiny-skinned apples in supermarkets. If you want to grow a russet apple tree in your garden or orchard, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

The Egremont Russet is a traditional British apple with a unique, rough-textured skin and a sweet, nutty flavour. First recorded in 1872, this dessert apple is a firm favourite among gardeners and apple enthusiasts. It offers a pleasant taste, a crisp texture, and a richness that makes it perfect for eating fresh or adding to salads.

A russet apple tree is an excellent addition to any garden or orchard. These trees are known for their medium-sized, nicely sized fruit and characteristic russeted skin. Unlike many modern supermarket apples, Egremont Russet apples offer a depth of flavour and texture that is hard to find. Growing your own means enjoying brilliant homegrown apples, free from supermarket coatings and wax.

Growing an Egremont Russet apple tree is straightforward with the right conditions. These trees thrive in well-drained soil and prefer a sunny position. They are often grafted onto rootstock to control their size, making them suitable for gardens of all sizes. A minarette form is also available for those with limited space.

The Egremont Russet apple tree belongs to pollination group 2. This means it requires another apple tree nearby to ensure good fruit production. Suitable pollination partners include Cox’s Orange Pippin and other apples in the same or adjacent pollination groups. Please check out my article here for more information on Apple pollinating groups.

Pruning is essential to maintaining a healthy and productive russet apple tree. In winter, remove any dead or diseased branches and shape the tree for better air circulation. Summer pruning can help control growth and improve fruit quality. Proper pruning encourages strong branches, ensuring a bountiful harvest year after year.

When looking to buy trees, choosing a reputable nursery is key. Garden centres and specialist fruit tree nurseries often stock Egremont Russet apple trees. Buying from a trusted source ensures you receive a healthy tree that will thrive in your garden.

The Egremont Russet apple tree will grow fruit that ripens in early autumn. Once picked, these apples can be stored in a cool, dark place for a month or two. Their firm texture and low juice content make them excellent keepers than other varieties.

The taste of an Egremont Russet apple is what makes it truly special. It has a nutty flavour with a firm, crisp bite. Unlike some modern apples that are overly sweet or watery, this apple delivers a balance of sweetness and slight dryness, making it a favourite among russet fans.

While some supermarkets stock Egremont Russet apples, they are not as widely available as other varieties. If you love these apples, growing your own ensures a steady supply. Alternatively, you can buy fresh fruit from local orchards or specialist nurseries.

The Egremont Russet apple has been grown in the UK since the Victorian era. It was first recorded in 1872 and has remained popular due to its unique flavour and texture. Its special characteristics include its rough skin, rich taste, and versatility in eating fresh or using it in salads.

Key Points to Remember:

• The Egremont Russet apple is a unique, heritage British variety with a nutty flavour and rough-textured skin
• This dessert apple is perfect for eating fresh, adding to salads, or storing for a short period
• The russet apple tree thrives in well-drained soil and sunny conditions
• It belongs to pollination group 2 and benefits from a nearby apple tree for good fruit production
• Pruning is essential to maintain a healthy and productive tree
• Buy trees from reputable nurseries or garden centres to ensure quality
• Harvest in early autumn and store in a cool, dark place for maximum freshness
• While available in some supermarkets, home-growing ensures the best flavour and freshness

Apple ‘Egremont Russet’ is a classic British variety known for its nutty, creamy flavour and distinctive russet skin. This partially self-fertile apple tree thrives in sunny, sheltered positions with well-draining soil. Spring blossoms, autumn fruit, and modest autumn leaf colour add interest year-round, making it a delightful choice for gardens or small orchards. If you’re an apple lover looking for a fruit that dares to be different, the Egremont Russet is an apple worth trying!

To see the RHS article, please click here

For more information on Fruit for your garden, please click here

Q: What’s so special about the Egremont Russet Apple Tree?

Q: How do I know if I should buy an Egremont Russet Apple Tree?

Q: Where can I buy fresh fruit from Egremont Russet Apple Trees?

Q: Where can I buy an Egremont Russet Apple Tree?

Q: What is the best way to grow an Egremont Russet Apple Tree?

Q: Do I need another tree for pollination?

Q: What types of apples can I expect from an Egremont Russet Apple Tree?

Q: How old should a tree be before it starts producing fruit?

Q: Are there any common pests I should know about with my russet tree?

Q: Can I grow Egremont Russet apples in Sussex?