Apples of North America

October 1, 2013

Orchardist, nurseryman, and apple expert Burford (Apples: A Catalog of International Varieties) here shares dozens of varieties of heirloom and modern apples to eat and/or grow, although he says that his book is aimed primarily at the consumer. In the first section, "Apple Varieties A to Z," each one-page entry includes a brief description of the apple; its other common names; its historical interest; its look, flavor, aroma, etc.; characteristics of the tree; disease resistance; ripening season; uses; and storage quality. Each apple is illustrated with a beautiful color photograph. Burford then offers an overview of planning and designing an orchard, including variety and rootstock selection, followed by cultural information. He then presents brief sections on pest and disease descriptions, harvesting, storing, and propagation by grafting. Next, Burford covers uses of apples, from cider to drying. He concludes with his recommendations for the best apple varieties for specific purposes or conditions. VERDICT A lovely, browsable work for apple enthusiasts. For the gardener not aiming to plant an orchard, Burford leaves out some basics; beginning apple growers will be better served by Alan Buckingham's Grow Fruit or Lewis Hill and Leonard Perry's The Fruit Gardener's Bible: A Complete Guide to Growing Fruits and Nuts in the Home Garden.--Sue O'Brien, Downers Grove P.L., IL

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