2023 -- #1 - Pruned off a relatively large bottom branch (another one to be cut off next year). 5/27 - Main tree many blooms, some open obviously damaged by 5/25-26 mid 20's freeze, others closed buds maybe not damaged. Removed all later; decided tree didn't have enough leaves to set/mature fruit. Appears to be a tip bearer (blossoms only at tips). A LOT of blind wood (no leaves along rather spindly branches except near tips). Filled in a little bit later. Decent growth.

#2 - Hadn't paid much attention to tree north of fence until Steve cleared growth back a little farther and mentioned there was this small tree with apples! Sure enough, 3 apples growing. There were enough leaves on this vigorous grower to let them be. 10/8 decided to pick them when harvesting many others - had some sooty blotch but otherwise look good - a small, medium and large. Interesting attractive apple. 10/15 ate first one -- firm crunch, moderate juice, mild/moderate sweet flavor. Seeds were brown but felt it needs storage to mature flavor. 11/28 ate the 2nd one - very nice! Sweet with a pleasing, interesting flavor. Tender-firm, moderate juice. Saving the third for December.

2022 -- 5/30 - Main young tree has 2 blooms! Looks healthy and vigorous but it's really too young and sparse yet to fruit. Will nip them off after I admire them for awhile.

Tree growing well, a bit lanky with just a few widely spaced branches, half too low so will be pruned off in future years.

2020 - 2021 -- Both grafts healthy, vigorous.

2019 - ARS-NPGS scion - (1) 4/19 moved a20 rootstock in from east fence 12’ away from pea shrub. Grafted 5/30 at about 25". Grew well, healthy, 10" top, 8" side.

(2) grafted piece to medium size wild seedling n of garden fence @~5' to grow above deer height. Also grew well, healthy, ~11". See Smokehouse #2.

Online Notes: great flavour in a dense, chewy apple. Traditionally used for baking from July until it is fully ripe in early fall, ripeness transforms into a fabulous fresh-eating variety that's firm, crisp, juicy, aromatic and extremely tasty in a nicely balanced, subacid sort of way. Rather flattish, red-striped, yellow apple with tender, firm, yellowish, very juicy flesh. It has a flavor like fresh cider, very good for cooking, baking, and eating. It is a long-term keeper lasting into March. The tree is vigorous and productive. Ripens in September and is very hardy. z3.  Short window of perfection but worth it.