USDA Certified Organic

Starkey is indeed a rare apple variety that was discovered as a chance seedling by Moses Starkey in Vassalboro, Maine in the early 19th century. It is known for its rich, complex flavor that is both sweet and tart, with notes of spice and honey. The Starkey apple is a medium-sized apple with a yellow-green skin that is flushed with red. The flesh is firm and juicy, with a creamy texture and a distinctive flavor. It is typically harvested in fall can be eaten fresh or used in cooking and baking. They are self-fertile but benefit from cross-pollination with other apple trees for optimal fruit production. Starkey is considered a rare variety and may be difficult to find for purchase. Currently enjoying new found popularity thanks to the work of John Bunker, who tracked this variety down about 25 years ago. It originated on the farm of Moses Starkey in Vasselboro, Maine, in the early 19th century. The apples are well noted for their long shelf life in northern climates. Please see below for further information on our organically grown Starkey apple trees for sale.

Considerations for Starkey Apple

USDA Zones: 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Heirloom: Yes

Uses:  Fresh Eating, Cider, Sauce and Pies 

Low chill: Yes
 
Harvest Period: Late

Bloom Period: Midseason

Pollination Requirement: Requires different variety with same bloom period

Origin Date: Maine 1790

Disease resistance: Good

Storage: 1 month

Rootstock: MM 111 (semi-dwarf)

Years to Bear: 2-4 years

Recommended Spacing: 12-16 ft.

Mature Size: 12-16 ft.

Water Requirements: 12-15 gallons per week May through Sept.

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Size of tree

Our trees range in height from 4-8 ft. in our field and trimmed to 4 to 5 ft. when shipped. Our young two year trees are most often feathered (side limbs). The trees diameter (caliper) is often 1/2 to 3/4 inch; *As noted by University of California Scientists and other qualified professionals the most successful trees often have caliper from 1/2" to 5/8" and usually establish faster than smaller and larger planting stock. .

Pruning tip

Basic idea for Pruning: Most fruit trees should be pruned in frost-free periods mid to late winter. (apricots best after bud break) Remove most vertical branches and shorten side branches. Fruiting wood is best on horizontal to 45 degree limbs. Learn more...

Shipping information

Shipping Note: Our fruit trees and berries are delivered to you bareroot during their winter dormancy from January through May depending on USDA zone. Trees are shipped with your invoice and helpful planting directions. There is no minimum quantity required but shipping rate for an individual tree is expensive since UPS/Fed Ex charge a dimensional weight and an additional handling fee to ship a tree. You'll find it's cost effective to consider a handful of trees,vines or our helpful Tree Starter Kits.

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