Apple (Malus domestica) RED CHIEF

The 'Redchief' apple tree is a clone of the well-known American variety 'Red Delicious', which originated in the USA in the mid-19th century. Redchief' was selected for its distinctive dark red fruit, aesthetic value and improved characteristics such as early fruiting and regular harvest. The breeding of this variety has focused on improving the visual and storage characteristics of the original 'Red Delicious', making it a popular choice for intensive orchards around the world.

Redchief' fruits are medium to large, oblong-cone-shaped, with typical ribs and a distinctive five-pointed shape on the calyx. The skin is deep red, glossy, often with a fine waxy coating, which gives the fruit its distinctive appearance. The flesh is light, firm, juicy, with a delicate sweet taste and a pleasant aroma. The fruit ripens in late September to early October and, under the right storage conditions, retains its quality until March.

Redchief' trees grow moderately vigorously and form a compact, well-branched crown which is suitable for intensive cultivation. The trees have an early onset of fruiting and produce regular and abundant crops. Picking is recommended to ensure optimum fruit size and quality. The variety has medium resistance to common apple tree diseases and therefore preventive protection against scab and powdery mildew is recommended.

On the M26 rootstock, the tree reaches a height of 2,5-3,5 metres, which facilitates maintenance and harvesting. M26 is a semi-dwarf rootstock, which promotes early fruiting and a regular harvest. This rootstock is suitable for fertile and well-drained soils.

A sunny site with fertile, permeable soil is ideal for successful cultivation of 'Redchief'. Although it is partially self-pollinating, planting near pollinators such as 'Golden Delicious' or 'Gala' is recommended to increase yield. Regular pruning helps maintain healthy growth and a good quality crop, and shaping into an open crown for better light is recommended.

The 'Redchief' apple tree is an attractive winter variety that offers excellent flavour and aesthetically pleasing fruit. It is suitable for both gardeners and fruit growers looking for a reliable, high quality crop for intensive cultivation.