Apples ‘Cox’s Orange Pippin’ is a medium-sized deciduous fruit tree known for its aromatic and sweet-tasting apples. The apples have a distinctive orange-red blush over a greenish-yellow background and develop a complex flavor in temperate climates. Apples ‘Cox’s Orange Pippin”s blossoms are pinkish-white, which mature into firm and juicy fruits by late autumn, cherished for fresh eating and cider-making.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
This is the classic English apple, often regarded as the finest of all dessert apples, and the inspiration for this website. It arose in England in the 19th century as a chance seedling, and has inspired apple lovers ever since. It remains unsurpassed for its richness and complexity of flavour.
Two characteristics tend to be apparent in its offspring to a greater or lesser extent. Firstly the relatively pronounced and complex “aromatic” flavour which elevates it above most other varieties. Secondly, the striking and attractive orange-red colouring.
It is the range and complexity of flavours which makes Cox’s Orange Pippin so appealing to enthusiasts of the “English” style of apple. This is a variety for the connoisseur, who can delight in the appreciation of the remarkable range of subtle flavours – pear, melon, freshly-squeezed Florida orange juice, and mango are all evident in a good example. Almost all other apples taste one-dimensional alongside a good Cox’s Orange Pippin.
II. How to Grow and Care
Sunlight
Apples ‘Cox’s Orange Pippin’ prefers sunlight and grows well in full sun. Sufficient sunlight for about 8 hours a day is recommended. Sunlight will have a great impact on flower colors, while insufficient sunlight will lead to lighter colors. If there is strong light in summer, apples ‘Cox’s Orange Pippin’ needs proper shady conditions to avoid high-temperature injuries. Too much light may cause leaf curling or spots on stems and leaves.
Temperature
Widely distributed in the northern temperate zone, apples ‘Cox’s Orange Pippin’ is generally very adaptable to the distinct seasons, including hot summers and cold winters. It can tolerate temperatures as low as -30 ℃. Apples ‘Cox’s Orange Pippin’ can’t tolerate extremely high temperatures in summer; temperatures above 32 ℃ will affect its growth. The tree is drought-tolerant and doesn’t require much water, hence, avoid over-watering it.
Watering
Watering is important and required within two days after transplanting. The soil should be completely saturated so that the roots can get sufficient water supply. If apples ‘Cox’s Orange Pippin’ is planted in a courtyard, water it until water accumulates on the soil surface without seepage for an extended time. If it is planted in a flower pot, fill the tray under the flower pot with water to let the water slowly penetrate into the soil. About ten days after transplanting, water apples ‘Cox’s Orange Pippin’ again to promote growth.
Watering thereafter should be based on external climate and soil conditions; there is no need to water when the soil is still moist. Water should be provided when the soil is relatively dry, but don’t water so much that it accumulates around the tree.
Watering once every 3-5 days in winter is generally advised. With sufficient sunlight in summer, apples ‘Cox’s Orange Pippin’ should be watered once every 1-2 days. Be careful not to provide too much water each time. The best irrigation time is in the morning or on sunny days. This timing can promote water absorption and root respiration in the case of transpiration during the day. Avoid watering on rainy days, as this can easily cause root rot.
Soil
Apples ‘Cox’s Orange Pippin’ can adapt to various soils. The most suitable soil for growth is slightly acidic or neutral, humus-rich, loose, well-drained, and sandy. The best pH range for the soil is 6-8. During cultivation, the soil can be mixed with garden soil, peat soil, and organic fertilizer in a proportion of 6:3:1.
Fertilizing
Apples ‘Cox’s Orange Pippin’ prefers fertilizer, and soil fertility will affect its growth and reproduction. It is best to apply sufficient base fertilizer composed mostly of organic fertilizer as well as some quick-acting fertilizer. Fertilizer application in fall produces the best results; it promotes rooting and accumulation of more nutrients for the following year’s growth. Additionally, there are two other recommended fertilization times: before spring buds and when the fruit begins to grow. Dig out a small soil ditch 30 cm around the trunk, and then add the fertilizer evenly, water thoroughly, and loosen the soil properly after drying.
Planting Instructions
It is generally easiest to plant apples ‘Cox’s Orange Pippin’ by buying seedlings rather than sowing seeds. The recommended planting time is before budding in early spring or after leaves fall in early winter. Before planting, thoroughly check whether the roots of the tree are healthy. If rotten roots are found, they need to be quickly cut and disinfected with carbendazim.
When planted in a garden, the pit depth should be about 40 cm and the diameter about 60 cm. If the root is large, the size of the pit needs to be twice as big as the root ball. Before transplanting, apply some rotten organic fertilizer as the base fertilizer. In severe cold zones, pay attention to keeping apples ‘Cox’s Orange Pippin’ warm while transplanting. Add a cover such as wood chips or mulch at the base of the plant to ensure it overwinters safely.
Pruning
Pruning is very important for apples ‘Cox’s Orange Pippin’ and is usually performed between late fall after its leaves drop and early spring before it sprouts. Pruning not only keeps branches scattered and maintains the tree’s shape, but also ensures ventilation and sunlight transmission, which is conducive to its growth. Promptly cut off dense, overlapping, thin, and infected branches, or prune out a suitable and aesthetic shape based on the viewing environment. When blooming, you can also cut off some branches and cut away withered flowers to promote budding and the blossoming of new branches.
When pruning and cutting longer branches, leave enough new buds for branches to grow better afterward.
Propagation
If there is a seedling growing at the root, you can cut the seedling from the plant before budding in spring or after leaves fall in autumn and winter. It is best to cut off the roots of the seedling and transplant them into new pots or dug pits.
Transplanting
Apples ‘Cox’s Orange Pippin’ thrives when transplanted in the rejuvenating embrace of early spring, as the mild temperatures promote root establishment. Select a sunny, sheltered spot with well-drained soil for optimal growth. Ensure roots are undisturbed for successful acclimatization.
Pests and Diseases
Cox’s Orange Pippin can be affected by Apple Scab. Apple Scab is more prevalent in regions with wet springs, like we have in the Pacific Northwest. While it doesn’t seriously affect the eating quality of the fruit, it can cause black spots on the apples and foliage. Apple Scab can be controlled by sulfur and other sprays. Codling Moth can create wormy apples and aphids can damage the foliage of apple trees.
III. Uses and Benefits
Cox’s Orange Pippin bears delicious, sweet-tart fruit with crisp and aromatic flesh. Great for fresh eating and drying, Cox’s Orange also makes tasty sauce and cider.
