Malingre Précoce

Malingre Précoce is a variety of apple that originated in France. It is known for its early ripening, hence the name "Malingre Précoce" which translates to "Early Weakling" in English. This apple variety is not widely grown due to its susceptibility to diseases and pests, but it is appreciated by some for its unique flavor and early harvest time.

History

The Malingre Précoce apple was first cultivated in France in the 19th century. It was named for its early ripening and the tree's weak growth habit. Despite these challenges, the apple was appreciated for its unique flavor and was grown in small quantities in home gardens and small orchards.

Characteristics

The Malingre Précoce apple is small to medium in size, with a round shape. The skin is thin and smooth, with a yellow-green color that is often blushed with red. The flesh is white, crisp, and juicy, with a sweet-tart flavor that is often described as refreshing.

The tree is a weak grower, often producing small, spindly branches. It is susceptible to a number of diseases and pests, including apple scab, fire blight, and codling moth. Despite these challenges, the tree is appreciated for its early ripening, often producing fruit in late summer, well before most other apple varieties.

Cultivation

Cultivation of the Malingre Précoce apple is limited due to its susceptibility to diseases and pests. It requires careful management and regular treatments to prevent disease and pest infestations. Despite these challenges, the apple is appreciated by some growers for its early ripening and unique flavor.

The tree prefers a sunny location with well-drained soil. It is not drought-tolerant and requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. The tree is self-fertile, but cross-pollination with another apple variety can improve fruit set and quality.

Uses

The Malingre Précoce apple is primarily used for fresh eating, due to its refreshing, sweet-tart flavor. It can also be used in cooking and baking, where its flavor can complement other ingredients. However, its small size and susceptibility to browning limit its use in commercial food production.

See Also

• List of apple cultivars
• Apple
• Cultivars