Arkansas Black G41 5 gallon

Arkansas Black Apple — 5 Gallon

(Malus domestica ‘Arkansas Black’ grafted on G.41 rootstock)

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Tree Description

The Arkansas Black Apple is a classic heirloom apple variety known for its deep, dark red fruit and exceptional storage life. The apples are firm and crisp with a mildly sweet flavor when first harvested, developing a richer, more complex taste after several weeks of storage.

This variety ripens in late fall and is well known for keeping through the winter under proper storage conditions. Arkansas Black apples are excellent for fresh eating, baking, and long-term storage, making them a favorite for traditional home orchards.

These trees are grafted onto G.41 dwarf rootstock, which produces a compact tree size while encouraging early fruit production and excellent disease resistance. This makes it easier to manage, prune, and harvest compared to full-size apple trees.

A 5-gallon tree is an excellent starter size, establishing quickly and developing into a productive fruit tree within just a few growing seasons.

Sun Requirements

• Full sun (6–8+ hours daily)
• Best fruit production occurs with plenty of sunlight

Water Requirements

• Water deeply during the first growing season while roots establish
• Typically 10–15 gallons once or twice per week depending on rainfall and weather
• Once established, trees are moderately drought tolerant

Soil & Nutrition

• Prefers well-drained soil
• Adaptable to many soil types common in central Missouri
• Apply a balanced fruit tree fertilizer in early spring
• Maintain 2–3 inches of mulch around the base to conserve moisture and protect roots

Mature Size (on G.41 rootstock)

• Height: 8–12 ft
• Spread: 6–10 ft
• Growth rate: Moderate

Why We Recommend This Tree

• Unique deep red heirloom apple
• Excellent long-term storage apple
• Compact dwarf tree size
• Great addition to a home orchard in Missouri 🍎🌳