Malus domestica 'Gala'

The Gala is a propagated apple cultivar, a cross between Kidd’s Orange Red and Golden Delicious, that originated in New Zealand in the 1920s. It came to the United States in the early 1970's and its mild, sweet, and slightly tart flavor made it a popular choice. Gala apples are ideal for fresh eating, salads, and cooking. It is semi-dwarf, meaning its height reaches about 12 to 15 feet at maturity. A dwarf variety is also available with a height of 8 to 10 feet. The Royal Gala strain was named in honor of Queen Elizabeth II, who deemed it her favorite during a visit to New Zealand.

Galas can vary in color, from cream to red- and yellow-striped. Galas are harvested beginning in mid-July and are typically available year round.

Dwarf rootstock trees, such as Gala, need another variety of apple tree to facilitate pollination and fruit production. Most any variety will work if the bloom periods overlap adequately. Check the bloom times for your area for all options considered. The crabapple is often suggested due to its long bloom time. For the Gala specifically, the Fuji or the red or yellow delicious apple trees are good bloom matches. 

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. Gala apple trees tolerate average garden soils, but avoid unamended heavy clay soils that waterlog easily and drain poorly.

Gala fruit production will respond best to full sun and air movement around the tree and through its branches. It is not recommended to place the tree near taller trees or structures that would shade it for a few hours each day. In summary, air movement, sunlight, and good soil and drainage all lead to a healthy, productive tree.

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common apple and crab apple diseases and another factsheet on planting and care of apple trees.

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:

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

More information on Malus domestica.