25 Roxbury Russet Apple Seeds - Heirloom Malus domestica for Garden Orchard

Roxbury Russet Apple (Malus domestica) is a historic American heirloom apple variety, prized for its distinctive russeted skin and rich, sweet-tart flavor. This listing offers 25 seeds for gardeners and orchardists interested in growing this classic apple tree from seed. The Roxbury Russet is believed to be one of the oldest apple cultivars in North America, valued for fresh eating, cider making, and baking. Its unique appearance and heritage make it a rewarding addition to home orchards and edible landscapes.

Growing apple trees from seed is a long-term project that offers the excitement of producing a unique tree, though fruit characteristics may vary from the parent. These seeds are intended for planting and growing your own apple trees. With proper care and patience, you can establish a beautiful and productive tree that contributes to biodiversity and local food production.

Plant Features

• Heirloom American apple variety with russeted skin
• Sweet-tart flavor suitable for fresh eating, cider, and baking
• Attractive spring blossoms and edible fruit
• Long-lived deciduous tree that supports pollinators
• Grown from seed for unique, potentially new apple varieties

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
• Growth Habit: Upright spreading tree
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-8
• Bloom Season: Spring
• Mature Height: 12-20 feet (depending on rootstock and growing conditions)
• Germination Requirements: Cold stratification recommended; sow seeds outdoors in fall or stratify in refrigerator for 6-8 weeks before planting
• Spacing: 15-20 feet apart for full-size trees

Planting & Care

To grow Roxbury Russet apple trees from seed, start by stratifying the seeds to simulate winter conditions. Place seeds in a moist medium such as peat moss or paper towel, seal in a plastic bag, and refrigerate for 6-8 weeks. After stratification, sow seeds indoors in pots or directly outdoors in prepared beds. Use a well-draining seed-starting mix, plant seeds about 1/2 inch deep, and keep consistently moist. Germination can be slow and variable. Once seedlings have several sets of true leaves, transplant them to larger pots or a permanent location with full sun and good air circulation.

Young apple trees require regular watering during establishment, especially during dry periods. Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds, but keep mulch away from the trunk. As trees mature, prune to maintain shape and remove dead or crossing branches. Be patient: apple trees grown from seed may take several years to produce fruit, and the fruit quality may differ from the parent. Enjoy the process of nurturing your own heirloom apple tree.

What's Included

25 Roxbury Russet Apple seeds (Malus domestica).