25 Black Oxford Apple Seeds - Heirloom Maine Variety

Black Oxford apple seeds offer a chance to grow a piece of Maine's heirloom apple history. This rare variety is prized for its deep, dark purple-red skin and its use in fresh eating, baking, and cider making. The trees are known for their hardiness and adaptability to cold climates, making them a valuable addition to northern orchards and home gardens.

Growing apple trees from seed is a rewarding project that requires patience and care. These seeds will produce trees that may vary in fruit characteristics, as apples do not grow true to seed. However, each seedling has the potential to develop unique traits and may become a new favorite in your garden.

Plant Features

• Heirloom variety originating from Oxford County, Maine
• Dark purple-red fruit with sweet-tart flavor
• Hardy trees suitable for cold climates
• Dual-purpose apple for fresh use and cider
• Seeds are open-pollinated and non-GMO

Growing Information

• Botanical Name: Malus domestica
• Plant Type: Deciduous fruit tree
• Sunlight: Full sun
• Soil: Well-drained, loamy soil
• Water Requirements: Moderate; keep soil moist but not waterlogged
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-7
• Mature Height: 12-20 feet (depending on rootstock and pruning)
• Germination Requirements: Cold stratification required (4-8 weeks)
• Spacing: 15-20 feet apart

Planting & Care

To grow Black Oxford apple trees from seed, start by stratifying the seeds in a moist medium in the refrigerator for 4-8 weeks. After stratification, sow seeds indoors in pots filled with a well-draining seed-starting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist and maintain a temperature around 70°F. Germination can take several weeks to a few months. Once seedlings have developed several sets of true leaves, transplant them into larger pots or a nursery bed. Provide full sun and regular watering. Young trees benefit from protection from strong winds and winter sunscald.

Apple trees grown from seed will not be identical to the parent tree, so fruit quality may vary. For best results, consider grafting desirable varieties onto your seedlings once they are established. With proper care, these trees can become long-lived additions to your landscape.

What's Included

25 Black Oxford apple seeds.