Apple, Frostbite

Frostbite Apple, is an exceptionally cold-hardy variety bred specifically for the harsh climate of Zone 3b regions. This remarkable apple reaches peak ripeness from early to mid-October, making it an excellent late-season harvest option for North Dakota growers. The fruit is small to medium-sized with a distinctive deep red skin and sometimes displays a slight russet finish. Prized for its intense sweetness and complex flavor profile that includes notes of molasses and sugarcane, Frostbite excels in multiple culinary applications. Its concentrated sugars make it outstanding for fresh eating, producing rich cider with exceptional depth, and creating flavorful dried apple chips that maintain sweetness without added sugar. To ensure proper pollination and maximum fruit production, plant alongside compatible varieties like Haralred, Honeycrisp, or Norland that have overlapping bloom periods. This University of Minnesota introduction (MN447) has proven its resilience in temperatures reaching -40°F, making it an ideal choice for challenging northern growing conditions.