McIntosh Apple Tree

Name: McIntosh Apple Tree
Brand: Nature Hills Nursery
SKU: 22290
Price: 69.43 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.64 (11 reviews)

Malus 'McIntosh'

The Iconic Macintosh Apple with that Legendary Snap and Perfect Tart-Sweet Flavor Balance
Cold Hardy: Thrives in Zones 4-8
Grows 12-18 ft Tall, 10-15 ft Wide
Native, Pollinator-Friendly - Attracts Bees and Butterflies
Stunning Yellow Fall Foliage

$69⁴³

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Plant Size

#2 Container | 4-5 ft

Product variants

Understanding Our Container Sizes

At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.

Container Sizes

Quart

Plant age: 6 months to 1 year
Best for: Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses
What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.

#1 Container

Plant age: 1 to 2 years
Best for: Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees
What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.

#2 Container

Plant age: 2 to 3 years
Best for: Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment
What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.

#3 Container

Plant age: 3 to 4 years
Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs
What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.

#5 Container and Larger

Plant age: 4 to 5+ years
Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact
What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.

Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?

Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.

Root Pouch Containers

Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.

Plants growing in Root Pouch fabric containers, showing the breathable woven fabric construction

There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:

Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.

Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.

Full Root Pouch planting guide

Choosing the Right Size

Size	Plant Age	Best For
Quart	6 mo to 1 yr	Ground covers, perennials, grasses. Budget-friendly for mass plantings.
#1 Container	1 to 2 yrs	Shrubs, perennials, small trees. Value choice for patient gardeners.
#2 Container	2 to 3 yrs	Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment.
#3 Container	3 to 4 yrs	Most plants. Immediate visual impact. Our most popular size.
#5 and larger	4+ yrs	Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact.

Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our plant specialists are happy to help. Contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics	Cold hardy, Flowering, Edible, Ornamental Berries/Fruit, Attracts pollinators, Thornless
Hardiness Zone	3a to 9b
Sunlight	Full sun
Height	12-18 ft
Width	10-15 ft
Watering Needs	Moderate
Preferred Soil	Clay, Loamy, Peaty, Sandy
Growth Rate	Moderate
Blooms In	Spring
Flower Color	White
Fragrant	Yes
Suitable Space	Outdoors
Botanical Name	Malus 'McIntosh'
Species	hybrid
Cultivar	McIntosh
Class	Magnoliopsida
Does Not Ship To	AK, CA, HI, ID, MT, OR, PR, VI, WA

McIntosh Apple America's Favorite Heritage Variety

McIntosh Apple is famous not for its crunch, but rather the snap. From the first bite, the classic McIntosh snap of the skin alerts you to prepare for the perfect blend of tartness to sugar which is so much the reason for its popularity.

McIntosh Apple tree produces heavy crops of small to medium-sized apples that ripen and are ready for harvest around mid-September. Often, McIntosh Apple crops persist into early winter, as this tree is hardy and can easily withstand colder temperatures.

The tree is cold hardy, but it's also adapted to a wide range of climates. Recent studies have determined McIntosh to have a low chill requirement, as well. Fruit sets have been reported into what would be considered extremely low chill zones 10 and 11a.

The classic Apple tree in the landscape, the McIntosh is a decorative addition to your yard with its show of delicate Apple blossoms in early spring. As the Apples begin to develop, you'll enjoy watching as your fruit transitions into red over green, decorating the tree amid the vibrant dark green leaves.

When you're craving Apples at the end of the summer, growing your own McIntosh tree is here to satisfy your sweet tooth. Not only do McIntosh Apples grow from lovely trees, but these delicious apples also ripen early in the season, making them a convenient go-to snack. These Apples are great for eating.

Key Features

Early Ripening Fruit
Heavy Producing
Adapted to a Wide Range of Climates
Both Cold Hardy and Low Chill
Famous Heirloom Variety
Disease Resistant
Chilling Requirements: Moderate to High 500 to 1000 hours

Classic All-Purpose McIntosh Apple Tree

The sweet-tart taste and tender white flesh of the McIntosh Apple make it great for snacking. But there is a lot more to this unique variety than just fresh eating. The "Mac's" were the first of the all-purpose Apples.

McIntosh Apples have the perfect balance of acid to sugar. This makes them great for butter, jelly, and cider. And no county fair would be the same without a McIntosh candied apple on a stick.

For bakers, McIntosh cooks down into a soft consistency. Slice and mix with other varieties, such as Winesap, or Gala Apples to produce the perfect filling for the world's best Apple Pie. And there is nothing that beats the flavor of a "Mac" apple sauce.

Don't delay in getting this tree planted in your garden. The sooner you plant, the faster you'll begin enjoying the wonderful fresh fruit harvest from your backyard.

Pollination Partners for McIntosh Apples

McIntosh requires a pollinator, so when planting, remember to think of a later or earlier ripening variety to extend your harvest of apples. Be sure to select varieties that are recommended for the USDA Growing zone you are planting in. Enter your zip code in the Zone Finder to see what zone you are in.

An early ripener, the McIntosh apple tree is one of the earliest of the apples to ripen. When planning your selection, don't forget to plant a few Apple varieties. McIntosh will be your early ripening variety.

To extend your season of harvest, plant the McIntosh with the mid-season Winesap and a late-season Arkansas Black Apple. You'll gain an heirloom harvest of some of the finest-eating Apples known. To increase pollination, plant your McIntosh with another Apple tree like the Anna, Centennial Crabapple, Cox's Orange Pippin, CrimsonCrisp, Cripps Pink, Cripps Ted, Dolgo Crabapple, Freedom, Frostbite, Fuji, Granny Smith, Haralson, Jonathan, SnowSweet, Sweet Sixteen, Wealthy, WineCrisp, Wolf River.

#ProPlantTips for Care

This crisp, juicy Apple grows best in well-drained soil with full sun exposure. A moderate amount of moisture is required to ensure the McIntosh tree produces a full crop of delicious, ripe apples.

You'll want to plant your McIntosh where it will get plenty of sunlight, as full sun exposure is needed to grow. Fruiting time can take anywhere from three to five years, but if you have a little patience, the apples this tree produces are well worth the wait.

McIntosh Apple can be maintained to any height with pruning. It is always recommended that fruit trees be maintained below 10 feet for ease of maintenance and harvesting.

All apples require a certain amount of care in different regions of the country. Check with your local Ag Extension Agency to find out apple care recommendations for your area. Nature Hills carries a wide range of natural and conventional products to help with your fruit tree care.

When planting, mix some HSU Growing Supply Leaf Compost into soils with low organic matter to get your tree off to a great start, In any soil, the Fertilome Root Stimulator will aid in the quick adjustment of its new home.

McIntosh Apple was a chance seedling discovered by John McIntosh in the early 1800s, while clearing his property in Fall St Lawrence and Alexander, Canada. By the beginning of the 20th century, the McIntosh Apple was the #1 variety planted in Canada and throughout the upper Midwest and East Coast in the United States.

Order one of America's favorite Apple Trees today!

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Some of the reviews shown are from related products the merchant grouped with this one.

A question, sorry...

Im wondering what rootstock youve got on these McIntosh. Answer from Nature Hills: The rootstock is M111.

Hi Joe,

Thank you so much for reaching out with your question about the McIntosh Apple Tree! We’re glad to confirm that the rootstock used is M111. This rootstock is known for its adaptability and moderate vigor, which helps produce a hardy tree that performs well in a variety of soil types and climates—perfect for growing a healthy and productive McIntosh.

If you’re looking for specific care tips, ensuring well-drained soil and providing adequate sunlight will really support your tree’s growth. Also, keep an eye out as the tree matures, and pruning in late winter can help maintain its shape and promote better fruiting.

If you need any detailed guidance on learning more about your McIntosh Apple Tree’s care or troubleshooting later on, please don’t hesitate to ask! We’re always here to support your gardening journey.

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

pollination

What is the best tree to put with a McIntosh Apple Tree to pollinate it properly? I live in zone 6. Any help would be great. Answer from Nature Hills: The Gala, Honeycrisp or Dolgo crabapple.

Hello Shell,

Thank you so much for reaching out with your question about the best tree to pair with your McIntosh Apple Tree for pollination! We’re glad to help ensure your apple tree thrives. Since you’re in zone 6, some excellent companion pollinators you can consider are the Gala, Honeycrisp, or Dolgo crabapple trees. These varieties bloom around the same time as McIntosh and will help provide good cross-pollination to promote healthy fruit development.

A couple of tips to maximize pollination success: plant your pollinator tree within about 50 feet of your McIntosh, and if possible, plant two different compatible varieties to further encourage bees to transfer pollen. Also, providing a bee-friendly environment—avoid using heavy pesticides and consider planting some flowering ground covers nearby—can make a big difference.

If you have any other questions about planting or care, we’re happy to assist you. Thanks again for connecting with us!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Zone-

I live in the foothills of the Sierras at about 3000 elevation and would like to grow a Macintosh. We have all type of Apple Farms near by and assume it would do well, but we are apparently a zone 8 and the Macintosh says zone 4-6. Appreciate you iniput and can a pear tree act a a pollinator Answer from Nature Hills: Planting a zone 4-6 fruit tree in a zone 8 location would not be recommended. The McIntosh apple tree would not thrive in your location (zone 8). A pear tree will not pollinate an apple tree.

Dear Jim,

Thank you so much for reaching out and sharing your gardening goals with us! We truly appreciate your thoughtful questions about growing a McIntosh apple tree in the Sierras foothills at 3000 feet. Your observation regarding the nearby apple farms highlights your strong connection to your local environment, which is wonderful.

Given that the McIntosh variety is best suited for USDA zones 4-6 and you’re in zone 8, it’s likely that the warmer climate and elevation at your location may pose challenges to the tree’s growth and fruit production. Apple trees require a certain number of chill hours in their dormant season, which can be harder to satisfy in warmer zones like yours. For successful zone 8 apple growing, you might want to explore varieties bred for warmer climates, such as Anna or Fuji, which typically handle limited chill-hour environments better.

Regarding pollination, while pear trees are a delightful choice for the yard, unfortunately they cannot serve as pollinators for apple trees. For apples, you’d want to have another compatible apple cultivar flowering at the same time nearby to ensure proper cross-pollination and fruit set.

If you'd like, we offer resources and personalized recommendations to help you select apple trees or other fruiting plants more adapted to your region and elevation. Feel free to explore our FireBlight resistant and low-chill fruit tree varieties on NatureHills.com or contact us for tailored advice.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Pollination

I get a lot more apples since my crabapple tree started blooming a lot. Evidently it attracts a lot more bees for pollination.

Cold resistant rootstock - Bud 9

Janice, I believe Mcintosh on m-111 will be more than hardy for zone 7. Good luck from Mass!

Hello Mr. Aucoin,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience and insight! We truly appreciate your knowledge regarding the McIntosh apple tree and the cold hardiness of the M-111 rootstock, especially for Zone 7. Your firsthand advice from Massachusetts adds valuable perspective for our plant-loving community.

If you or anyone else is looking for additional tips on apple tree care—such as pruning best practices, optimal soil conditions, or pest management—you can always refer to our fun and informative blog articles or reach out to our team. We want to ensure your orchard thrives no matter the season!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Cold resistant rootstock - Bud 9

Janice, I believe Mcintosh on m-111 will be more than hardy for zone 7. Good luck from Mass!

Dear Aucoin,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your valuable insight! We truly appreciate your expertise and recommendation regarding McIntosh on M-111 rootstock—it’s wonderful to hear that it holds up well in Zone 7. Your note about the cold resistance helps fellow gardeners gain confidence in selecting the right rootstock for hardy fruit trees.

For anyone considering McIntosh trees, Greater hardiness and adaptability often make a big difference in a successful harvest, so your feedback is a great resource to the community. If you ever want more information on growing apples or rooting stock choices, our website offers detailed guides and planting tips suited for different climates.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

McIntosh Apple Trees.

I didn't know that you had to be in a certain zone to grow these kind of apples. Now that I know you have to be in a 4-6 zone and I am in a 7 zone, I have to admit I am really disappointed. I am originally from Mass. and I miss them terribly. We only get them for a very short period during the fall. I was so hoping to get one for my daughter's birthday next month. It would have been a great surprise for her. Oh Well.

Dear Janice,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience with the McIntosh Apple Tree. We truly appreciate your thoughtful feedback, and we completely understand your disappointment about the USDA hardiness zone requirements. It’s wonderful to hear how much you cherish McIntosh apples, especially given your personal connection to Massachusetts and the special occasion you had in mind for your daughter’s birthday.

Since you’re in Zone 7, McIntosh apples might struggle with heat and chill hour requirements, but don’t be discouraged! There are apple varieties and other fruit trees that thrive beautifully in Zone 7 conditions. Varieties such as Enterprise, Anna, or certain peaches and pluots might offer delicious homegrown tasting fruits with a better compatibility for your local climate. Our plant specialists would be happy to recommend a few suited perfectly for your area, if you’d like.

Also, if creating a little nostalgia in your daughter’s garden is your goal, container gardening with certain cold-hardy shrub roses or other native plants that remind you of New England could make a wonderful personalized gift—bringing a piece of your roots into your current environment. Please feel free to reach out anytime for tailored suggestions or planting tips.

We wish your butterfly garden of memories grows strong and bright in your home!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

McIntosh Apple Trees.

Dear Janice,

Thank you so much for sharing your heartfelt feedback with us. We completely understand how disappointing it can be to discover that McIntosh Apple Trees thrive best in zones 4-6 and that zone 7 isn’t ideal for their growth. It’s a true testament to your thoughtful surprise for your daughter, and it’s touching to hear about your fondness for those apples from Massachusetts.

While McIntosh varieties prefer cooler climates, there are some other apple tree varieties more suited to warmer zones like yours that might provide a lovely alternative and still bring that orchard charm closer to home. Varieties such as Anna or Dorsett Golden apples do well in zone 7 and carry wonderful flavors; perhaps one of these could be a meaningful birthday gift for your daughter, carrying forward the spirit of your surprise.

You might also enjoy checking out our plant specialists to guide you toward similar fruit trees that thrive in your current climate. We’re more than happy to recommend and assist as you explore the wonderful choices adapted to zone 7!

Thank you again for your understanding and passion for growing fruit dishes that bring beloved tastes and memories to life.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

pollination

What is the best tree to put with a McIntosh Apple Tree to pollinate it properly? I live in zone 6. Any help would be great. Answer from Nature Hills: The Gala, Honeycrisp or Dolgo crabapple.

Hi Shell,

Thank you so much for reaching out with your question about pollination for your McIntosh Apple Tree! We’re delighted to hear you’re taking careful steps to ensure a successful fruiting season. Given that you live in zone 6, planting varieties like Gala, Honeycrisp, or a Dolgo crabapple nearby is indeed an excellent choice—they bloom around the same time as McIntosh, which helps maximize cross-pollination.

For best results, aim to space your pollinator tree within 50 feet of your McIntosh tree to give the bees and other pollinators the best chance of transferring pollen between blossoms. Additionally, consider adding some flowering plants that attract pollinators, such as lavender or borage, to further encourage healthy bee activity in your garden.

If you’ve got a bit of extra space, some gardeners find it helpful to plant more than one pollinator variety to increase the likelihood of a great apple harvest. You might also check out our detailed apple tree care guide available on NatureHills.com for ideas on soil, pruning, and more.

We hope this helps your McIntosh trees thrive and produce bountifully this season! Please feel free to ask us anytime if you have more questions or need recommendations.

To greener days ahead,
Nature Hills Customer Care & Plant Support

A question, sorry...

Im wondering what rootstock youve got on these McIntosh. Answer from Nature Hills: The rootstock is M111.

Hello Joe,

Thank you so much for reaching out with your question about our McIntosh Apple Trees. We truly appreciate your curiosity and are happy to provide more details to help you feel confident with your purchase. As you noted, these trees are grafted onto M111 rootstock—a versatile and semi-dwarf rootstock known for strong disease resistance and adaptability to a range of soil types. This means your McIntosh tree should develop a manageable size and produce robust fruit healthily.

If you’d like tips on planting and care with M111 rootstock, we recommend ensuring well-drained soil and regular watering especially during establishment. Pruning each winter to maintain the tree’s structure will also help promote great fruit yield. Plus, keeping an eye out for early season pests or diseases will make sure your tree thrives for many seasons.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have more questions as your tree grows. Thank you again for being part of the Nature Hills family!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Zone-

Hello JimC,

Thank you so much for reaching out and sharing your thoughts about growing a McIntosh apple tree at your elevation in the Sierra foothills. You’re absolutely right that nearby apple farms hint at favorable growing conditions for apples, but the hardiness zone is an important factor to consider. Since McIntosh apple trees thrive best in zones 4-6 and you’re in zone 8, it can be challenging for them to adapt, mainly because of differences in chill hour requirements and summer heat tolerance.

Regarding your pollination question, pear trees unfortunately cannot serve as pollinators for apple trees—the two are different species with varying bloom times and pollen compatibility. To promote apple pollination, it’s a good idea to consider planting a compatible apple variety with overlapping bloom periods. There are some varieties suited to warmer climates, like Gala or Fuji, that may grow better at zone 8 and at your elevation.

For even more guidance, we recommend checking out our detailed planting resources on dormant hour requirements and recommended apple varieties for warmer zones. We’d also be happy to help you select the perfect tree tailored to your specific location!

Thanks again for your thoughtful inquiry, JimC. If you have any other questions or need suggestions, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

Frequently Asked Questions

When will my McIntosh Apple Tree start bearing fruit, and how heavy are the yields?

McIntosh Apple trees typically begin producing fruit 3-4 years after planting and reach full production by year 6. This variety is known for heavy crops of small to medium-sized apples that ripen in mid-September. Plant in full sun with well-draining soil for best yields.

How do I properly plant a bare-root McIntosh Apple Tree upon arrival?

Plant bare-root McIntosh Apple trees in early spring while dormant, digging a hole twice as wide as the root spread. Soak roots 2-4 hours before planting, spread them naturally, and backfill with native soil. Shop quality bare-root trees at naturehills.com for best results.

How and when should I prune my McIntosh Apple Tree?

Prune McIntosh Apple trees during dormancy in late winter before buds break. Remove dead, diseased, and crossing branches first, then thin crowded areas to improve air circulation. Focus on opening the center for sunlight penetration and shaping for easier harvest access.

Is the McIntosh Apple Tree susceptible to diseases like apple scab, and how do I prevent them?

McIntosh Apple trees are disease resistant, making them less susceptible to common apple diseases like scab. Their hardy nature and wide climate adaptability (zones 10-11a) contribute to their natural resilience. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to maintain optimal tree health.

What is the shipping cost for a McIntosh Apple Tree, and is there a minimum order?

Shipping costs vary by tree size and location when you shop at Nature Hills. Most orders qualify for free shipping with minimum purchase thresholds. Check naturehills.com at checkout for exact rates and current promotions before finalizing your McIntosh apple tree order.

Can I grow a McIntosh Apple Tree in my zone (e.g., zone 7A or warmer climates)?

McIntosh Apple trees adapt to a wide range of climates and have been successfully grown in zones as warm as 10-11a due to their low chill requirement. While traditionally cold hardy, recent studies show they can fruit set in extremely low chill zones. Check your local chill hours to ensure proper fruit production.

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McIntosh Apple Tree

Malus 'McIntosh'