Malus domestica 'Empire'

The Empire apple tree is a semi-dwarf cultivar of M. domestica. Empire became generally available in 1966 and is a cross between McIntosh and Red Delicious apple varieties, although it is more McIntosh-like than Red Delicious. Empire is a crisp, juicy apple with a sweet-tart flavor and creamy white flesh, making it a good all-purpose apple. The tree grows up to 15 feet and has the same spread; therefore, it can be a good selection for smaller spaces than the standard apple tree, which grows up to 18 to 25 feet. Empire apples are picked between September and October and can be stored for three months.

Dwarf rootstock trees, such as Empire, need another variety of apple tree to facilitate pollination and fruit production. Good companion pollination trees for the Empire include Golden, Red Delicious, or Gala varieties or a crabapple with a similar springtime bloom period.

Semi-dwarf or dwarf trees also need slightly more enriched, well-drained loamy soil that holds moisture and is slightly acidic, with a PH in the 6.0 to 6.5 range. Generally, the more dwarf the rootstock, the greater the need for soil fertility. Empire apple trees tolerate average garden soils, but avoid unamended heavy clay soils that waterlog easily and drain poorly.

Planting the tree in full sun encourages maximum flower and fruit production. Reducing fertilization in late summer can help protect the tree from some fungal conditions. A regular spraying program can also prevent disease and pest damage. Check with your county Cooperative Extension office for local treatment advice if needed.   

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common apple and crab apple diseases and other plant problems.

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Edibles, Bulbs, and Houseplants" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.   

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems:

Empire is susceptible to Scab and Powdery Mildew, as are most apple trees, along with a number of other diseases and insects such as aphids. Empire is resistant to fire blight and rust.

More information on Malus domestica.