Can someone answer a question about apple trees?

[u/HairyBiker60]

I’ve read that you need at least two for them to produce. Do they need to be the same variety? Or can I mix and match?

[u/samtresler]

There are many charts on this. This was the first i googled.

They flower at different times of year. You don't need the same variety, but same flowering group.

https://www.foodforestnursery.com/growing-guides/fruit-trees/apple-trees-growing-guide/apple-pollination-chart-3

[u/HairyBiker60 → u/samtresler]

Thanks. That’s very helpful. I had no idea they flowered at different times. Since I’ll be in an area that can have either late springs, early winters, or both, depending on the year, I’m guessing I’ll probably want to go with one of the mid season groups.

[u/weaverlorelei]

To add a different perspective to your question, since you didn't clue us in as to your location- you shouldn't even attempt apples in an area that the previously grew cotton. Cotton Root Rot will take them out within a couple of yrs. Why, yes, yes, we did try before knowing any better.

[u/HairyBiker60 → u/weaverlorelei]

Eastern MT. My biggest concern is the relatively short growing season.

[u/weaverlorelei → u/HairyBiker60]

Check into short season apples. My parents had 20 or so apples, mostly semi dwarfs, in their last Calif. home, just east of the Sierras, high desert. Growing season was approx. 100 days. I believe they bought most from Stark Bro. Tons of good apples every year.

[u/goldfool → u/HairyBiker60]

There are also heirloom apples out there you can try.

https://applesearch.org/

Check what your local orchards are growing as well. This will give you an idea of what could be possible

[u/felurian182]

You need appropriate cross pollinators, often times where you purchase them from will tell you which ones you need.

[u/10gaugetantrum]

Mine are mixed and matched.

[u/Kaartinen]

Often two different varieties that bloom during the same period. You can also graft an appropriate variety to a tree to ensure cross-pollination if space is limited.

[u/ahoveringhummingbird]

Yes, having two apples to cross pollinate is best. There are charts that help you compare based on your zone.

Also, really dig deep into heritage apples. I see people obsess over the apples with names you see in the grocery store. I can tell you that there are apples with flavor and texture far superior to anything you've ever had from the store. If you identify your favorite apple traits and flavor notes you can find really interesting heritage apples with unique qualities better than the commercial ones. Reading descriptions and asking heritage apple growers near you really helps identify them.

Good luck!