Malus d. “Elstar” - Elstar apple - Organic fruit tree, half-standard

Malus domestica ‘Elstar’ is one of the most popular dessert apples in Western Europe. This half-standard apple tree is valued for its aromatic sweet-tart flavour, reliable cropping and manageable growth, making it ideal for medium-sized gardens and organic or conventional fruit cultivation.

Fruit

• Size: medium (150–200 g)

• Colour: yellow-green with red-orange blush

• Flavour: sweet-tart, aromatic, juicy

• Use: fresh eating, apple sauce, juice, baking

• Harvest: September

• Storage: until December (cool conditions)

Tree & Growth

• Form: half-standard, compact crown

• Mature height: 3–4 m

• Width: 2.5–3 m

• Blossom: abundant, April–May, white to light pink

• Pollination: self-fertile (no other tree needed)

• Position: full sun, sheltered from strong winds

• Soil: well-drained, fertile, neutral to slightly acidic

Planting & Care

• Plant in autumn or early spring

• Space half-standard trees at least 3–4 m apart

• Add compost or organic fertiliser to the planting hole

• Light pruning annually in late winter or after harvest

• Water during dry periods in the first years

• Mulch around the trunk to retain moisture and suppress weeds

Benefits

• Self-fertile: ideal for small gardens

• Compact half-standard: easy to harvest and maintain

• Reliable, early crops with aromatic fruits

• Suitable for organic and conventional cultivation