Apple Seeds - Himalayan Crabapple

(Malus baccata var himilaica) Deciduous. Zones 4 - 7

Himalayan Crab Apple is an extremely cold hardy tree, native to Asia. Its small stature, rounded shape, and thick, twisted branches make it a popular ornamental tree choice for small garden spaces. 

Himalayan Crab Apple’s beautiful, showy Spring flower clusters - fragrant, deep pink and long lasting - attract bees and butterflies galore. The lovely dark red and yellow pear-shaped fruit hang like jewels, and persist into Winter. Fruit is sour but palatable and can be eaten raw or cooked. 

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Cold Hardiness: Zones 4 - 7

Edible: Yes

Size: Large shrub or Small Tree 

Growth Rate: Medium

Nitrogen Fixer: No

Native Plant: No

Germination: 60-80%

Sun Requirements: Full Sun to part shade.

Soil Preference: Moist, acidic, sandy soil

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GROWING INSTRUCTIONS

For hardier seedlings, direct sow seeds outdoors in the Fall. If sowing indoors…

SEED PRETREATMENT: Soak seeds in water for 24 hours. Mix seeds with a moistened grow medium equal to 3-4 times seed volume. Place in a plastic bag, covered tray/cells or container.

STRATIFICATION: 90 days cold/moist (5°C). Place plastic bag with seeds and soil in your refrigerator, preferably in a veggie crisper. Inspect periodically for even moisture and germination.

POST-STRATIFICATION: Sow stratified seeds 1/4”, ideally in a peat/perlite mix. Alternating soil temperatures during the day (25°C) and night (18°C) aids germination. Water evenly and regularly.

GERMINATION: When all previously mentioned requirements are fulfilled, germination generally occurs in 15-45 days.