Golden Dorsett Apple Tree

The Golden Dorsett Apple Tree, scientifically known as Malus domestica 'Golden Dorsett', is a widely appreciated apple variety known for its excellent adaptability to warm climates and its delicious fruit. This variety is a result of a chance seedling discovered in the Bahamas, making it particularly well-suited for areas with mild winters.

In cultivation, Golden Dorsett Apple Trees typically reach about 10 to 25 feet in height and spread about 10 to 20 feet. They have a robust, spreading growth habit and are adorned with glossy, green leaves. The trees bloom with attractive white flowers in spring, which develop into fruit under proper pollination conditions.

The fruit of the Golden Dorsett Apple Tree is medium-sized with a beautiful golden yellow color. These apples are known for their sweet, crisp, and juicy flesh, making them excellent for both fresh eating and cooking purposes. One of the notable characteristics of this variety is its early ripening season, with fruits typically ready to harvest in early to mid-summer.

Golden Dorsett Apple Trees thrive in full sun and prefer well-draining soil. Regular watering is essential for healthy growth and fruit production. This variety requires fewer chill hours than traditional apple trees, making it an ideal choice for warmer regions.

In landscaping, Golden Dorsett Apple Trees are often planted in home orchards and gardens, particularly in areas where traditional apple varieties may not thrive due to climate limitations. Besides their fruit, these trees provide ornamental value with their spring blossoms and lush foliage.

Overall, the Golden Dorsett Apple Tree is an excellent choice for gardeners in warmer climates looking to grow apples. Its adaptability to less-than-ideal apple growing conditions, combined with the quality and flavor of its fruit, makes it a popular choice among home gardeners and fruit growers.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Golden Dorsett Apple Tree

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruiting)
• Soil: Well-drained, loamy soil (slightly acidic to neutral soil preferred)
• Spacing: Space trees 12-15 feet apart to allow for proper growth and fruit production
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: Golden Dorsett Apple Trees may require staking when young but become self-supporting once mature

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 3-4 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 2-3 inches of water per session for deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Golden Dorsett Apple Tree is considered established after 6-8 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 7-10 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 5-7 days. Provide 3-4 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 4-6 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 24-36 inches away from the base of the tree to ensure deep watering of the root zone
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 2-4 gallons per hour for deep watering
• Number of Emitters: 2-3 emitters per tree for even watering distribution
• Adjusting Frequency: In summer, increase watering to every 5-7 days. In winter, reduce to every 4-6 weeks