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An 'orchard grade' is a tree that may be somewhat shorter, slightly crooked, or a bit scratched, or for some other reason is not a perfect front lawn specimen. These trees will work just as well in an orchard as a first or number one would, since they still produce the very same fruit.
When Tom Connell of Menomonie, WI. patented this variety in 1956 there was widespread suspicion it was really a red strain of the renowned 'Fireside' apple from the University of Minnesota. Recent evidence would seem to vindicate Tom that it is most likely a seedling, and as such, a totally new variety. Apple politics aside, Connell Red offers great all around fruit, with good hardiness and disease resistance, especially against cedar apple rust and scab. The distinctive, aromatic flavour of this medium-large, mostly solid red apple has been described as 'hints of banana'. It is rather unique indeed to be so sweet, ready to eat right off the tree in October, yet still be crisp in April or May in the root cellar. Connell Red is considered a tip-bearing type.
NEEDS A POLLENIZER | ZONE 3/4 | HARVEST : MID OCT.
Besides selecting the most disease resistant varieties, there are
a few simple things to do to have better apples.