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Liberty Apple Tree
Description
About The Liberty Apple Tree
The Liberty Apple Tree is a dependable, heavy-bearing variety bred to succeed where McIntosh often struggles. Known for its exceptional disease resistance, Liberty is field-immune to apple scab and cedar apple rust, with strong resistance to fire blight and powdery mildew—making it a low-maintenance favorite for home orchards.
Liberty apples ripen in early fall, about a week before Empire, and closely resemble it in appearance. The fruit features a bright red finish over a yellow background, with crisp, nearly white flesh that’s firmer than McIntosh and slightly tarter in flavor. Well suited for fresh eating, baking, canning, and sauces, Liberty also stores well, with flavor improving over time in proper refrigeration.
Developed in Geneva, New York and introduced in 1978, Liberty is cold-hardy, productive, and reliable—an excellent choice for gardeners who want classic apple flavor without constant disease management. Pollinator required, see recommendations below.
Survival Guaranteed!
Since 1816, Stark Bro’s has promised to provide customers with the very best fruit trees and plants. It’s just that simple. If your trees or plants do not survive, please let us know within one year of delivery. We will send you a free one-time replacement, with a nominal shipping fee of $9.99. If the item in question is not available, we can issue a one-time credit to your account equaling the original product purchase price or issue you a refund. Read more about our warranty policy.
Characteristics
| Bloom Color | White |
| Bloom Time | Early - Mid |
| Fruit Color | Red |
| Fruit Size | Large |
| Hardiness Zone Range | 4 - 7 |
| Pollination | Pollinator Required |
| Ripens/Harvest | September |
| Shade/Sun | Full Sun |
| Soil Composition | Loamy |
| Soil Moisture | Well Drained |
| Soil pH Level | 6.0 - 7.0 |
| Taste | Tart |
| Texture | Crisp |
| Years to Bear | 2 - 5 |
Size & Spacing
Mature Size
| Semi-Dwarf | 12 - 15' tall x 12 - 15' wide |
| Dwarf | 8 - 10' tall x 8 - 10' wide |
Recommended Spacing
| Semi-Dwarf | 12 - 15' |
| Dwarf | 8 - 10' |
Zone Compatibility
Pollination
This variety requires another one for adequate pollination.
Tools & Supplies
Planting & Care
Learn all about how to grow apple trees in The Growing Guide. An entire section of our website dedicated to your growing success.