Shop With Confidence: FREE Growing & Glowing Promise

Free Shipping on Orders $199+

Cortland Apple Tree

Malus 'Cortland'

  • Cortland Apples Stay White After Cutting, Perfect for Fresh Salads and Fruit Platters
  • 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
Regular price $6943
Shipping calculated at checkout.
Out of stock
Plant not supported in Growing Zone.

Unfortunately, this item cannot be shipped to your state.

Shipping to your area may be delayed due to weather conditions.

Enter your ZIP code to check shipping availability.

Plant Size

Specifications

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
Native Yes
Suitable Space Outdoors
Botanical Name Malus 'Cortland'
Species hybrid
Cultivar Cortland
Class Magnoliopsida
Does Not Ship To AK, CA, HI, ID, MT, OR, PR, WA

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the Cortland Apple Tree grow in my zone (e.g., zone 7 or 8)?

  • The Cortland Apple Tree thrives in zones 4-8, making it suitable for most temperate climates including zones 7 and 8. This hardy heirloom variety has been successfully cultivated for over 100 years across diverse growing conditions. Check your specific microclimate and ensure good air circulation for optimal fruit production.

What is the mature size and height of the Cortland Apple Tree?

  • Cortland Apple trees reach 12-15 feet tall and wide at maturity with a rounded, vigorous growth habit. This compact size makes them perfect for small yards and home orchards while still producing full crops in 4-6 years. Shop at Nature Hills for this reliable heirloom variety.

How far apart should I space Cortland Apple Trees when planting multiple?

  • Space Cortland Apple trees 15-20 feet apart for optimal growth and air circulation. This allows each tree to reach its full mature size without crowding while ensuring adequate sunlight penetration. Plant multiple varieties at the same spacing to improve cross-pollination and fruit yield.

Does the Cortland Apple Tree require a pollinator, and which varieties work best?

  • The Cortland Apple is partially self-fertile but produces better yields with a pollinator. For optimal fruit production, plant it alongside varieties that bloom mid-season like Granny Smith, Golden Delicious, or Cripp's Pink. Choose pollinators that flower in April to match Cortland's bloom time.

What type of soil does the Cortland Apple Tree prefer, and what is the ideal pH?

  • Cortland Apple trees thrive in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0-7.0. They adapt to various soil types but perform best in loamy conditions with good organic content. Test your soil pH before planting and amend with compost for optimal fruit production available at naturehills.com.

How much sun exposure does the Cortland Apple Tree need daily?

  • Cortland Apple trees need full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal fruit production and tree health. Adequate sun exposure ensures proper flowering in April and supports the tree's vigorous growth habit. Choose a location with morning sun to help dry dew from leaves and prevent disease issues.

How often should I water a young Cortland Apple Tree, and what are the requirements?

  • Water young Cortland Apple trees deeply once or twice weekly, providing about 1 inch of water per week. Newly planted trees need consistent moisture for the first growing season to establish their root system. Check soil moisture 2-3 inches deep and water when it feels dry.

What fertilizer and care schedule is needed for Cortland Apple Trees, including pruning?

  • Cortland Apple trees need balanced fertilizer in early spring before bud break, then again in late spring. Prune in late winter while dormant, removing dead wood and opening the center for air circulation. Apply compost annually and maintain consistent watering during fruit development.

Is the Cortland Apple Tree shipped bare-root, and when is the best shipping time?

  • Cortland Apple trees are typically shipped bare-root during their dormant season from late fall through early spring. This timing allows the roots to establish before the tree breaks dormancy and begins active growth. Plan your planting for early spring after the last hard frost when soil is workable.