Rome Beauty

General Fruit Growing
1

I have about 30 Rome trees on m7, about 25 years old, and in clay soil. I recused them about 15 years ago after years of neglect. 4 to 6 years of heavy remedial pruning has gotten the to less than 15’ and they produce most years, as they are very late blooming.

Some years they are just an average apple, quite quickly going soft, but still an excellent cooking apple. However, some years they are excellent. Crisp, effervescent, and sweet tart.

Has anyone had similar experience with Rome? The years that its good I like it a lot. The off year reminds me how much i loath pruning this tip bearer.

2

I am planting a number (5) of these next year. I am thankful for your insight to these apples.
Rome beauty is a very popular apples among growers here in Western NY.

3

It can be a bit bland. But I once picked 25 bushels from one tree. (In 1982).
I think I was paid $10 at the time / .40 a bushel.
Never did get real good…about 85 bushel per day.
16 foot or taller ladders, I’d be afraid of them today…getting too old.

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4

I know what you mean.

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