St. Cloud MN Apple Tree suggestion - Ask Extension
Hello,
I currently have a very mature Honeycrisp tree (planted in 1992). I now need a pollinator for it. I am unsure of which one to use because mo...
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St. Cloud MN Apple Tree suggestion #900523
Asked May 07, 2025, 5:43 PM EDT
Hello,
I currently have a very mature Honeycrisp tree (planted in 1992). I now need a pollinator for it. I am unsure of which one to use because most trees I search out are zoned for zone4+. Supposedly, we're in zone 4B (i think that's a bit optimistic). I'd like to enjoy the fruit off the pollinator as well as the Honeycrisp. Availability of trees is a concern of mine - I go local when I can but alson drive down to Gerten's. I was thinking Triumph Kudo's, Snow Sweet ... None of which are as temp hardy as HC, unless I'm missing something. What do you recommend for my needs? Thank you.
Stearns County Minnesota
Expert Response
Any tree that blooms around the same time as your tree will work, including ornamental crab apple trees. This link will give you a list of trees, most of whom are hardy in your area. Also, consider the Chestnut crab. They are larger apples than crab apple but smaller than Honeycrisp. The flavor is delicious. Open the drop down box on selecting your tree: https://extension.umn.edu/fruit/growing-apples#apple-varieties-recommended-for-minnesota-247061