Chinese Golden Early

Chinese Golden Early is a ver hardy tree, fruiting well in some of the coldest parts of Fairbanks. It also ripens early, making it a good choice for places with a short growing season. It also grows very well in Anchorage and is rumored to be one of the parents of the Yellow Jay Apple, bred by Curtis Dearborn of Palmer.

The tree is hardy and vigorous, and appears to have only one serious flaw, a tendency toward an upright growth habit with too many narrow- crotched branches.

The fruit itself is very sweet with a tendency to water core. Some years the fruit can be pulpy and bland, but in other years it is good eating (a nice, extremely juicy, blend of sweet and tart). This fruit is excellent when dried, an asset since it is productive and, like many early apples, does not keep well.