25 Antonovka Apple Seeds | Cold Hardy Heirloom Rootstock Variety

Antonovka apple seeds produce a classic cold-hardy heirloom apple tree valued for its extreme winter tolerance and reliable performance in northern climates. The Antonovka apple is a well-known Russian variety that has been grown for generations, prized both for its fruit and as a rootstock for grafting other apple cultivars. The tree develops a sturdy, long-lived structure and produces medium-sized, greenish-yellow apples with a tart, refreshing flavor that is excellent for fresh eating, cooking, and cider making.

These seeds offer a rewarding project for home gardeners, orchardists, and anyone interested in growing their own apple trees from seed. Antonovka is especially popular for its use as a rootstock, providing cold hardiness and anchorage to grafted varieties. Whether you are starting a small orchard, experimenting with grafting, or simply want to grow a resilient heirloom apple tree, Antonovka seeds are an excellent choice.

Plant Features

• Extremely cold-hardy heirloom apple variety
• Dual-purpose: fruit production and rootstock use
• Tart, flavorful apples ideal for fresh eating, baking, and cider
• Vigorous, long-lived tree with a traditional orchard appearance
• Adaptable to a range of northern climates

Growing Information

• Botanical Name: Malus domestica
• Plant Type: Deciduous fruit tree
• Sunlight: Full sun
• Soil: Well-drained, loamy soil
• Water Requirements: Moderate; keep soil consistently moist
• Growth Habit: Upright, spreading canopy
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-8
• Bloom Season: Spring
• Mature Height: 20-30 feet (depending on rootstock and growing conditions)
• Germination Requirements: Cold stratification required; sow in fall or stratify for 60-90 days
• Spacing: 15-20 feet apart

Planting & Care

To grow Antonovka apple seeds, start by cold stratifying the seeds to break dormancy. Place seeds in a moist paper towel inside a sealed plastic bag and refrigerate for 60-90 days. After stratification, sow seeds about 1/4 inch deep in a well-draining seed-starting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and provide a warm, bright location. Germination typically occurs within 2-4 weeks after stratification. Once seedlings have several sets of true leaves, transplant them into larger pots or a nursery bed.

For best growth, plant young trees in full sun with well-drained soil. Water regularly during the first few years to establish a deep root system. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring. Antonovka is self-fertile but produces better yields when cross-pollinated with another apple variety. Prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove dead or crossing branches. Trees grown from seed may take 5-10 years to bear fruit, and fruit characteristics can vary from the parent tree.

What's Included

25 Antonovka Apple Seeds.