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Description
Malus Domestica Empire is a type of apple tree that is a popular choice for its sweet and juicy fruit. It is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide. The tree has a round, spreading canopy that is covered in green leaves during the growing season. In the spring, the tree produces clusters of fragrant pink and white flowers that later give way to the fruit. The fruit is medium to large in size and has a bright red skin with a yellow-green background. The flesh is white, juicy, and sweet with a slightly tart taste.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Malus |
Appearance
Malus Domestica Empire has a round, spreading canopy that is covered in green leaves during the growing season. The leaves are oval-shaped and have a serrated edge. In the spring, the tree produces clusters of fragrant pink and white flowers that later give way to the fruit. The fruit is medium to large in size and has a bright red skin with a yellow-green background. The flesh is white, juicy, and sweet with a slightly tart taste. The tree can grow up to 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide, making it a good choice for larger landscapes.
Care Guide
Malus Domestica Empire requires regular care to ensure healthy growth and fruit production. Here are some tips for caring for this apple tree:- Water: The tree should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season. In hot, dry weather, it may need additional watering.- Fertilization: The tree should be fertilized in the spring and fall with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: The tree prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic.- Sunlight: The tree needs full sun to thrive.- Hardiness Zones: Malus Domestica Empire is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Malus Domestica Empire is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including:- Apple scab: A fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves and fruit.- Codling moth: A pest that lays its eggs on the fruit, causing damage to the flesh.- Fire blight: A bacterial disease that causes the leaves and branches to wilt and turn black.- Woolly apple aphid: A pest that feeds on the sap of the tree, causing stunted growth and deformation.To prevent these issues, it is important to keep the tree healthy and to prune it regularly to promote good air circulation.
Habitat
Malus Domestica Empire is native to North America and is commonly grown in temperate regions around the world. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun, but can tolerate some shade. It is often planted in orchards, but can also be grown in home gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: When is the best time to plant Malus Domestica Empire?A: The best time to plant Malus Domestica Empire is in the spring, after the danger of frost has passed.Q: How long does it take for the tree to produce fruit?A: Malus Domestica Empire typically starts producing fruit 2-5 years after planting.Q: Can the fruit be stored?A: Yes, the fruit can be stored in a cool, dry place for several weeks.Q: Is Malus Domestica Empire self-pollinating?A: No, Malus Domestica Empire requires cross-pollination with another apple tree to produce fruit.
Related Plants
– Malus Domestica ‘Golden Delicious’- Malus Domestica ‘Red Delicious’- Malus Domestica ‘Granny Smith’- Malus Domestica ‘Jonathan’
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Malus domestica ‘Empire’. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a914- University of Minnesota Extension. (n.d.). Apple disease and insect management. Retrieved from https://extension.umn.edu/fruit/growing-apples/apple-disease-and-insect-management
