A New Zealand-bred early-season dessert apple with sweet, crisp, aromatic flesh and red-striped skin over a yellow ground. Reliable and heavy-cropping, it pairs well with Granny Smith or Red Delicious for pollination.
At a glance
- Plant type: Fruiting tree
- Mature size: 4 m H × 3.5 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Gala Apple
Botanically, Malus domestica 'Gala' is a moderate-growing fruiting tree in the Rosaceae family. It reaches around 4 m tall and 3.5 m wide at maturity, with deciduous foliage. White and pink flowers appear in spring.
Where to grow Gala Apple
Gala Apple suits cool-temperate, warm-temperate and Mediterranean climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Gala Apple does best in free-draining and loamy soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Gala Apple does best with regular, moderate watering. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. For the first year, favour occasional deep watering over frequent shallow drinks so roots move into the surrounding soil.
Pruning & care
Prune Gala Apple after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Once established, it is moderate maintenance.
Using Gala Apple in the garden
Gala Apple earns its place for edible harvests and a feature or specimen planting.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Gala Apple with species that also favour regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out.
Buying Gala Apple
Plant Sale lists Gala Apple as bare-root stock, advanced specimens and potted plants. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
