Reinette Franche Apple Tree

Reinette Franche Apple TreeEvery rare tree purchase supports historical orchard preservation Limited availabilityreserve up to 5 rare trees per order while supplies last Each handpicked tree includes a durable etched metal display tag Standard on Domestic Apple Rootstock The Reinette Franche Apple tree is a historically significant variety introduced by Felix Gillet, a pioneering horticulturist, in 1884. Originating from Normandy, France, this apple has been cultivated since

Every rare tree purchase supports historical orchard preservation

Limited availability—reserve up to 5 rare trees per order while supplies last

Each handpicked tree includes a durable etched metal display tag

Standard on Domestic Apple Rootstock

The Reinette Franche Apple tree is a historically significant variety introduced by Felix Gillet, a pioneering horticulturist, in 1884. Originating from Normandy, France, this apple has been cultivated since the 1500s and has become a favorite among apple enthusiasts for its unique flavor, excellent storage capabilities, and resilience. The Reinette Franche apple is medium to large, with a stunning crimson and golden skin, often adorned with radiating rays of russet from the stem cavity. The tree is known for its consistent and productive bearing, particularly from the original "grandmother" tree in Goodyears Bar, Sierra County, California. This tree, located on an old mining claim near the North Fork of the Yuba River at 2,700 feet elevation, produced an impressive 350-pound harvest in 2018. The fruit is highly regarded for its yellowish-white, firm, and crunchy flesh, with a spicy flavor that combines hints of nuts and orange. It is an excellent choice for both fresh eating and cooking, making it a versatile addition to any orchard.

Historical Significance of the Reinette Franche Apple Tree

The Reinette Franche Apple tree's history is deeply rooted in the agricultural traditions of Normandy, France, where it was first cultivated in the 1500s. This variety is part of a broader family of Reinette apples, which are known for their high-quality fruit and storability. The Reinette Franche, in particular, gained popularity for its distinctive flavor and attractive appearance.

Felix Gillet, who played a crucial role in introducing many European fruit and nut varieties to the western United States, brought the Reinette Franche to California in 1884. Gillet established his nursery in Nevada City, California, during the height of the Gold Rush, providing miners and settlers with a wide range of fruit and nut trees that would thrive in the Sierra Nevada's unique climate. The Reinette Franche was one of the many varieties that Gillet introduced, and it quickly became a favorite for its excellent flavor, resilience, and storage capabilities.

The original "grandmother" tree in Goodyears Bar, Sierra County, is a testament to the durability and longevity of the Reinette Franche Apple tree. This tree, located on an old mining claim, has thrived for over a century in a region known for its rugged terrain and harsh winters. Goodyears Bar was once a bustling mining camp during the Gold Rush, populated by thousands of miners who worked the placer and hard rock mines in the area. Today, it is a quiet hamlet, but the Reinette Franche tree continues to produce bountiful harvests, connecting the present with the region's rich history.

How to Grow an Apple Tree: Cultivating the Reinette Franche Apple

Growing a Reinette Franche Apple tree requires an understanding of its specific needs and the environmental conditions that will allow it to thrive. Like many traditional apple varieties, the Reinette Franche is well-suited to regions with cold winters, where it can receive the necessary chill hours to break dormancy and produce fruit.

The first step in cultivating a Reinette Franche Apple tree is selecting the right planting site. This tree prefers full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day to develop its signature crimson and golden skin. The tree should be planted in well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level, ideally between 6.0 and 7.0. Soil with good drainage is essential to prevent root rot and other moisture-related issues.

Planting should be done in early spring or late fall when the tree is dormant. The planting hole should be twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. It is important to position the graft union, where the rootstock meets the scion, above the soil line to prevent the scion from rooting. After planting, the tree should be watered thoroughly to help settle the soil and eliminate air pockets.

The Reinette Franche Apple tree is known for its resistance to fireblight and scab, making it a relatively low-maintenance variety. However, like all apple trees, it benefits from regular care and attention. Mulching around the base of the tree helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds, creating a more favorable environment for growth.

Watering is crucial during the first few years of the tree's life. Deep watering once a week, providing about 1-2 inches of water, is recommended. As the tree matures, it will become more drought-tolerant, but regular watering during dry periods will support continued growth and fruit production.

Fertilization is another important aspect of caring for the Reinette Franche Apple tree. Applying a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or organic compost in early spring, before new growth begins, provides the nutrients needed for healthy growth and fruit development. It is important to avoid over-fertilizing, as too much nitrogen can lead to vigorous vegetative growth at the expense of fruit production.

Pruning is essential for maintaining the health and productivity of the Reinette Franche Apple tree. Prune the tree in late winter or early spring before the buds break. Focus on removing dead, damaged, or diseased branches, as well as any branches that are crossing or growing inward. Proper pruning allows for good air circulation and light penetration, which helps reduce the risk of disease and promotes even ripening of the apples.

Harvesting Apples

The Reinette Franche Apple tree is a biennial bearer, meaning it tends to produce larger crops every other year. The fruit ripens in October at elevations around 2,700 feet, making it a perfect choice for regions with cool autumns. 

To harvest the apples, gently lift the fruit and twist it slightly. If the apple detaches easily from the tree, it is ready to be picked. The apples should be harvested before the first frost, as cold temperatures can damage the fruit and reduce its storage life.

The Reinette Franche Apple is highly versatile and can be used in a variety of culinary applications. Its firm, crunchy flesh makes it ideal for fresh eating, while its spicy flavor adds depth to pies, tarts, and other baked goods. The apples can also be used to make apple juice, cider, and preserves, making them a valuable addition to any homestead or orchard.

Storing Apples

One of the Reinette Franche Apple tree's most notable qualities is its excellent storage capability. The apples can be stored well into the spring, providing a fresh supply of fruit long after the harvest season has ended. Proper storage is essential for maintaining the apples' quality and extending their shelf life.

After harvesting, the apples should be stored in a cool, dark place with good air circulation. A root cellar is ideal, as it provides the low temperature and high humidity that apples need to stay fresh over an extended period. To store apples, place them in shallow crates or baskets, ensuring they are not touching each other. This helps prevent the spread of any spoilage that may occur.

Regularly check the apples for signs of decay, and remove any that show signs of rotting to prevent it from spreading to the other fruit. With proper storage, Reinette Franche apples can last well into the winter and even the early spring, making them a valuable addition to any pantry.

Conclusion

The Reinette Franche Apple tree is a historically significant and highly productive variety that offers a unique combination of flavor, texture, and storability. Its connection to Felix Gillet and the rich history of apple cultivation in California adds to its allure, making it a true heritage tree with deep roots in the agricultural traditions of Normandy and the Sierra Nevada. By understanding how to grow an apple tree like the Reinette Franche and taking the necessary steps to care for it, you can enjoy bountiful harvests of delicious apples year after year. Whether for fresh eating, cooking, or storing apples for winter, the Reinette Franche Apple is a timeless and valuable addition to any orchard.