Stark® Lodi Apple Tree
Description
About the Stark® Lodi Apple Tree
Start your apple season early with the Stark® Lodi Apple Tree, the “early bird” of the orchard. Originating from Trinidad, Washington, in 1964, this exceptional variety delivers medium-to-large apples with a crisp, sweet-tart flavor. Perfect for pies, applesauce, and cider, the Stark® Lodi apple is a versatile choice for both fresh and cooked applications. These apples are larger and store better than Yellow Transparent, making them a superior option for early-summer harvesting.
With natural resistance to powdery mildew, the Stark® Lodi Apple Tree is well-suited for home gardeners looking for fewer disease and insect issues in their orchard. Its reliable early production and cold-hardiness make it an excellent choice for those in USDA Zones 4–8.
How to Grow the Stark® Lodi Apple Tree
Thriving in full sun and well-drained soil, the Stark® Lodi Apple Tree requires 800–1500 chill hours for optimal fruit production. A pollinator is necessary, so pair it with another early or mid-blooming apple variety for a bountiful harvest—see recommended pollinators below.
Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and encourage healthy growth. This tree bears fruit at a young age, so you’ll enjoy homemade apple creations sooner rather than later. The apples ripen in July, providing one of the earliest harvests in the orchard season.
Add the Stark® Lodi Apple Tree to your garden for an early, abundant harvest of flavorful apples. Whether fresh from the tree or baked into delicious treats, this variety offers reliable performance and a delectable taste experience.
Characteristics
Bloom Color | White |
Bloom Time | Early |
Chill Hours | 800 - 1500 |
Fruit Color | Green |
Fruit Size | Large |
Hardiness Zone Range | 4 - 8 |
Pollination | Pollinator Required |
Ripens/Harvest | July |
Shade/Sun | Full Sun |
Soil Composition | Loamy |
Soil Moisture | Well Drained |
Soil pH Level | 6.0 - 7.0 |
Taste | Tangy |
Texture | Crisp |
Years to Bear | 2 - 5 |
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.