Malus domestica 'Gala' Apple

Malus domestica 'Gala' is a popular cultivar of the domestic apple, highly prized for its deliciously sweet and aromatic fruit. Originating from New Zealand, the 'Gala' Apple has gained worldwide popularity due to its delightful flavor, attractive appearance, and versatility. It is an excellent choice for both home gardens and commercial orchards.

Common Name: Gala Apple
Mature Height (meters): 3-4 meters
Mature Width (meters): 2-3 meters
Spacing: Plant trees approximately 3-4 meters apart to ensure enough space for growth and sunlight penetration.
Foliage: The 'Gala' Apple tree has a moderate growth habit with a spreading canopy. It features dark green leaves that provide a lush backdrop for its white-pink blossoms in the spring and its colorful fruit in late summer to early fall.
Flowering Period: Blooms in early to mid-spring, producing beautiful white to pale pink flowers that are both fragrant and attractive to pollinators.
Fruit: 'Gala' apples are known for their medium size, conical shape, and distinctive coloring, which is a lovely blend of red stripes over a yellow background. The flesh is crisp, juicy, and sweet with a slightly tart undertone, making them excellent for fresh eating, salads, baking, and cooking.
Form/Habit: The tree has a naturally upright to spreading habit, making it a suitable choice for various landscape designs and space constraints.
Uses: Ideal for fruit production in home gardens, orchards, and even suitable for container planting in spacious pots. Its attractive appearance and fragrant blooms also make it a lovely ornamental tree.
Pollination: 'Gala' apples require cross-pollination with another apple variety that flowers at the same time, such as 'Granny Smith', 'Fuji', or 'Golden Delicious', to produce fruit.
Sun: Prefers full sun for optimal growth and fruit production.
Maintenance: Requires regular pruning to maintain shape, improve air circulation, and maximize fruit production. Pruning is typically done in late winter when the tree is dormant.
Water Requirement: Moderate; requires regular watering, especially during dry spells and in the early years of growth.

Malus domestica 'Gala' is an exceptional apple variety that offers delicious fruit, beautiful spring blossoms, and the rewarding experience of growing your own apples. Whether you are an experienced gardener or a beginner, the 'Gala' apple tree can be a delightful and fruitful addition to your garden.