Malus domestica Apple - Granny Smith

Apple – Granny Smith is a classic late-season apple, famous for its bright green skin and crisp, tart flavour. Originating in Australia, it is excellent for fresh eating, cooking and baking. Spring brings masses of white to pale pink blossom, followed by firm fruit that ripens in autumn.

At maturity, Granny Smith typically reaches 4–5 metres high and 3–4 metres wide on standard rootstock, though dwarf forms stay closer to 2–3 metres tall, making them suitable for smaller suburban gardens. Trees can also be espaliered along fences to save space.

Grow in full sun in Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide and cool parts of Brisbane, where winter chill supports reliable fruit set. Plant in well-drained, fertile soil enriched with compost. Water regularly during establishment and fruit development, mulch well, and apply a balanced fruit tree fertiliser in early spring and again after harvest. Prune in winter to maintain shape and airflow.

Suitable companion plants include lavender, nasturtiums, chives and calendula, which help attract pollinators and beneficial insects while deterring pests. With good care and cross-pollination from another apple variety nearby, Granny Smith will reward Australian gardeners with heavy crops of crisp, long-keeping fruit.