Cox Orange Pippen Apple Fruit Tree (Malus domestica 'Cox's Orange Pippin')

Cox's Orange Pippin Tree Description

The Cox's Orange Pippin is a classic, medium-sized apple tree with a rounded, spreading canopy. Its branches are moderately vigorous, developing a somewhat open structure as the tree matures. The leaves are oval, slightly serrated, and a deep green colour, turning yellow in autumn. In spring, the tree produces clusters of white-pink blossoms, which are not only attractive but also important for pollination. The apples, ready for harvest in late September to October, are medium-sized with a yellowish-green skin, often flushed with red. The flesh is sweet, aromatic, and juicy, making it a favourite for both eating fresh and cooking.

Pruning Advice

Regular pruning is essential for maintaining the health and productivity of a Cox's Orange Pippin tree. The best time to prune is during the winter when the tree is dormant. Key tips include:

Shape the tree: In the early years, focus on creating a strong, open framework by removing weak or crossing branches. Aim for a goblet or open-centre shape to allow light to penetrate the canopy.

Remove dead or diseased wood: Every winter, cut back any dead, damaged, or diseased branches to promote healthy growth.

Thin out congested areas: Cox's Orange Pippin can become dense in the centre, so it's essential to thin out branches that overcrowd the tree to improve air circulation and reduce the risk of fungal infections like apple scab.

Manage height and size: Control the tree's height and spread by cutting back vigorous new growth each winter. Focus on the tips of branches to encourage lateral growth and more fruiting spurs.

Summer pruning: In early to mid-summer, light pruning can help control excessive growth and encourage the development of fruiting spurs. This helps concentrate energy on ripening the apples.

By following these pruning practices, you can ensure that your Cox's Orange Pippin tree remains healthy, productive, and well-shaped for many years.

Further Information

Planting distances are largely a matter of preference. For bare root plants, spacing them at 3 plants per meter is sufficient, 5 plants is optimal, and 7 plants in a double staggered row will result in a denser hedge more quickly. Generally, smaller plants should be planted at a higher density. For cell-grown plants, spacing at 4 plants per meter in a single row or ideally 6 plants per meter in a staggered row is recommended.

Delivery & Returns

Free delivery is available on most orders (except Premium Products) providing they meet the minimum spend criteria for the size of box or pallet. Pallet deliveries and large box deliveries for tall plants are indicated by icons on the product table listings. Delivery costs and minimum order details for each packaging type are as follows:

* Standard Sized Boxes (Bare root up to 1.2m tall & pots up to 7.5L) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £100 | or £7.99 charge.

* Tall Sized Boxes (Bare roots 1.2m & over) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £100 | or £14.99 charge.

* Pallets (Root balls, large pots 10L+, trees etc | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £350 | or £60 charge.

* Pleached Trees (Specialist Delivery) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £1500 | or £450 charge.