The University of Minnesota apple breading program has released MN 1980 (yet to be formally named). This variety is an open release, available to all U.S. commercial growers.
Photo courtesy of U of M
MN1980 ripens up to a week after Honeycrisp, and according to the U of M published info sheet, it has good fresh eating qualities and a long storage life (up to nine months in common storage). The flavor is promoted as pleasantly tart but balanced. If it ripens a week after Honeycrisp, this variety may fill a nice niche in a fresh market setting.
Trees are available on dwarfing rootstock for 2021. Please contact us if you are interested in booking MN1980.
See the full information from the University of Minnesota below:
MN1980 Apple Cultivar
Parentage: Honeycrisp x Liberty
Harvest: 1-7 days after Honeycrisp
Size: 2.8 – 3.2 inches (around an 88 size)
Skin Color: 75-90% red
Scab: Good resistance
Cedar Apple Rust: Low to moderate susceptibility
Fruit may have occasional stem bowl russetting.
Tree Habits
Vigor: Moderate
Drop Susceptible: Low
Cropping: Consistent annual bearer
Hardiness: Up to zone 4
Fireblight: Not observed
