Apple (Malus domestica) LOBO

The 'Lobo' apple tree is a Canadian variety, bred at the Central Experimental Farm in Ottawa in 1906 as a seedling of the 'McIntosh' variety. It is one of the earlier autumn varieties and is valued for its excellent flavour, versatility of fruit and reliable yield.

Lobo' fruits are medium to large, 70-85 mm in diameter, and are spherical to slightly flattened in shape. The skin is smooth, light green to yellowish, with a distinctive dark red overlay and a fine waxy coating. The flesh is white, soft, very juicy and aromatic, with a balanced sweet and sour flavour reminiscent of its parent variety 'McIntosh'. The fruit is suitable for direct consumption, juicing, baking and cooking. Ripening occurs in late September to early October and the fruit is immediately edible. They will keep for 2-3 months if stored properly, although they are sensitive to pressure and can lose firmness quickly.'Lobo' apple trees on M26 rootstock grow moderately vigorously and form a spreading crown. The M26 rootstock, which was developed in England, is semi-dwarf and is suitable for intensive cultivation in gardens and orchards. Trees on this rootstock reach a height of 2,4-3,5 metres and come into bearing after only 2-3 years. They bear regularly and abundantly, but the tree requires support during the first years of growth and is sensitive to excessive moisture and drought, so good soil and irrigation are important.

For optimum growth and crop quality, the apple tree requires a sunny site and deep, permeable, nutrient-rich soil. Regular pruning ensures healthy tree growth and a quality harvest. Although 'Lobo' is partly self-pollinating, higher yields are achieved in the presence of suitable pollinators such as 'Golden Delicious', 'Idared' or 'Jonathan'.

The 'Lobo' variety has medium resistance to common diseases such as scab (Venturia inaequalis) and powdery mildew (Podosphaera leucotricha), but the fruit is susceptible to physiological disturbances during storage, such as skin blemishes or changes in the texture of the flesh. The trees are, however, well adapted to cooler conditions, making them a good choice for middle and higher altitudes.

The 'Lobo' apple tree on M26 rootstock is an ideal choice for growers looking for a compact tree with high yields and quality fruit. It is popular for its reliable fruiting, versatile fruit set and adaptability to different growing conditions. It is suitable not only for gardeners but also for intensive commercial cultivation.