Question. How many different flowering crabapple
trees are there? Can I start a tree from one of the apples off
the tree?
Answer. Many crabapple cultivars have been developed
over the years, but many have fallen from favor due to a multitude
of problems. The best crabapples are resistant to most insects and
diseases and have attractive flowers, fruits and form. This rules
out many cultivars. Currently, the International Ornamental Crabapple
Society evaluates 67 crabs. For information about crabapples, get
copies of "Crabapples Resistant to Apples Scabs and Japanese
Beetle in Indiana," ID-217, and " Apple Scab of Indiana," BP-39,
which are available from the Purdue Extension office in your county
or at http://www.entm.purdue.edu/Entomology/ext/targets/ID/IDpdf/ID-217.pdf and http://www.agcom.purdue.edu/AgCom/Pubs/BP/BP_39_W.pdf.
Most crabapples are grafted onto rootstocks of other crabapples so, unless
you are interested in grafting, they cannot be reproduced from seed or simple
cuttings.
Different crabapples have varying hardiness tolerances. Some will be hardy
in your area but others may not. Research this information before you add them
to your landscape.
-- Beverly Shaw, Advanced Master Gardener, Purdue University
Information listed is valid only for the state of Indiana.
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that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by the
Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service is implied.
Any person using products listed assumes full responsibility
for their use in accordance with current direction of the manufacturer.
Purdue University is an equal opportunity/equal access institution.
