General characteristics
Origin and history
Native to the Hautes Cévennes d'Ardèche, the Pomme de Fer apple tree is a hardy French variety, renowned for its resilience in the face of extreme weather conditions. Cultivated for generations, it is particularly prized in high-altitude areas and regions exposed to cold. Today, it appeals to both traditional producers and modern farms looking for hardy varieties.
Fruit characteristics
An attractive and high-quality fruit
- External appearance: Shiny red skin with white lenticels, offering an attractive visual in the markets.
- Flesh: White, slightly tinged with red under the skin, with a crisp and firm texture.
- Size: Small to medium, perfect for short circuit sales and local stalls.
Flavor and Uses
- Taste: A sweet and slightly tangy flavor, ideal for lovers of crisp apples.
- Culinary versatility:
- To eat: Its crunchy texture and natural sweetness make it an ideal apple for fresh consumption.
- Transformations: Also suitable for juices, compotes or pastries, although it is mainly appreciated for its freshness.
Extended storage
- Duration: The fruits will keep until May, maintaining optimal quality for months.
- Quality after storage: Even after several months, Pomme de Fer apples retain their firmness and flavor, providing a reliable source of fresh fruit in winter.
Production cycle and maturity
A late and reliable variety
Flowering: Medium to late, it reduces the risks associated with spring frosts.
Harvest: In mid-November, when the fruits reach full maturity.
Consumption period: Guaranteed availability from December to May, ideal for meeting winter demand.
Tree characteristics
A robust and adaptable tree
- Vigor: Vigorous tree with a spreading and balanced habit, reaching 4 to 5 meters at maturity.
- Adaptability:
- Soils: Suitable for a wide range of soils, including clay or slightly calcareous soils.
- Climate: Perfect for cold climates, resistant to temperatures down to -20°C.
- Altitude: Ideal for growing in mountains or exposed areas.
Why choose Arboriverse for your Iron Apple plants?
Plants selected for your professional needs
Arboriverse, a specialist wholesale supplier of apple trees, offers robust and certified Iron Apple trees, guaranteeing vigorous growth and optimal production.
- Superior quality: Our plants are selected for their natural resistance and productivity.
- Expert support: Benefit from technical advice to optimize your orchards and maximize your yields.
- Efficient logistics: Fast and reliable delivery to meet the needs of professional producers.
Commercial assets for market gardeners and producers
- Long shelf life: Winter availability until May, ideal for meeting off-season demand.
- Increased profitability: Disease resistance reduces the costs of phytosanitary treatments, a major advantage for organic producers.
- Fruit Versatility: Attractive and tasty apples, suitable for both direct consumption and artisanal processing.
- Fruit aesthetics: Their shiny red skin and uniform size appeal to consumers in local and regional markets.
Recommendations to optimize your production
- Prepare well-drained soil: Avoid compacted soil to limit the risk of root asphyxiation.
- Pair compatible pollinators: Plant varieties such as Golden Delicious or Reine des Reinettes nearby to maximize fruiting.
- Watch for pests: Although resistant to diseases, preventative monitoring against aphids or mealybugs is recommended.
- Pruning and thinning: Prune annually to aerate the foliage and thin the fruit to ensure uniform size.
The Pomme de Fer apple tree is a hardy, late-ripening variety, perfect for growers looking for natural resistance, long shelf life, and quality flavor. Thanks to its flavorful fruit, adaptability to harsh conditions, and profitability, it's an essential option for diversifying your winter production.
