Building Local Diversity

McIntosh was first discovered in the early 1800s as a seedling by an Ontario farmer named John Mcintosh. It was one of the most important commercial apples in early orchards across the country until it was replaced by newer varieties with better marketing. 

McIntosh is prone to scab but fairly resistant to cedar apple rust. It grows well here in Iowa, ripening mid to late September. McIntosh has a very nice sweet-tart flavor making it a great fresh eating apple. It doesn't store long before going soft so it will need to be preserved as apple sauce or juice. It can get to be a large apple if thinned properly.

Estimated bloom in Southwest Iowa:   April 15

Estimated ripening in Southwest Iowa:   September 20