Cultivar: Empire

 

Origin: Developed in 1966 by the New York State Agricultural Experiment Station in Geneva, New York, by crossing a Red Delicious with a McIntosh.

 

Tree Characteristics:

• Vigorous and productive
• Moderately resistant to fire blight and cedar apple rust
• Susceptible to powdery mildew

 

Fruit Characteristics:

• Large, round and slightly conical in shape
• Bright red colour over a yellow background
• Crisp and juicy, with a sweet and slightly tart flavour
• Good for both fresh eating and cooking

 

Harvest: Mid to late season, typically in September or October.

 

Growing Region: Adaptable to a wide range of growing conditions but performs best in cool climates with moderate summers. Cold hardy and well-suited to the northern regions of North America.

 

Culture:

• Requires cross-pollination for good fruit set
• Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and size

 

Pest and Disease:

• Susceptible to fire blight, cedar apple rust, and powdery mildew
• Regular spray program is important for the control

 

Conclusion: Empire is a popular apple cultivar known for its large size, bright red colour and sweet-tart flavour. It is a versatile apple that can be used for both fresh eating and cooking. It is a vigorous and productive tree that is well-suited to cool climates and performs well in northern regions of North America.