Apple Tree Celeste - Georges Delbard

The Delbard Celeste® deltana apple tree is a creation of the Georges Delbard Nurseries that produces large apples weighing up to 200 grams, subtly acidic and fragrant, genetically more resistant to diseases, particularly scab. It is a vigorous variety, with a harmonious habit that branches well. With fruiting from the early years, it abundantly produces apples with a conical shape, with red skin streaked with greenish-yellow. Their white flesh is crunchy, firm, juicy, sweet, slightly acidic, and fragrant. From October, the fruits can be consumed immediately after harvest and can be stored throughout the winter until March. With a high sugar content, it is a refreshing apple to bite into. Excellent in pies, compotes, or sautéed, the Delbard Celeste is also much appreciated in savoury recipes. It is a self-sterile variety that requires the presence of other apple varieties to improve pollination.

The Malus domestica, also scientifically known as Malus communis or Malus pumila, is the Common or Domestic Apple Tree. It belongs to the Rosaceae family. Present in Europe since antiquity, it is a fruit tree native to the forests of Central Asia. It has excellent hardiness and is probably the most cultivated fruit tree in Northern Europe. There are approximately 20,000 varieties, including around 10,000 of American origin, 2,000 of English origin, and 2,000 of Chinese origin. Malus domestica Delbard Celeste® 'deltana' is a variety created by the Georges Delbard Nurseries in 2010, resulting from a natural crossbreeding between (Golden Delicious × Grive Rouge) × Florina.

The Delbard Celeste Apple Tree has a semi-erect habit, branches well, and can reach a height and spread of 4 metres (13 feet). Its habit is suitable for low forms and espaliers. Its foliage consists of large, ovate leaves that are greenish-brown on the upper side and whitish-green on the lower side, with deep serrations. The white-pink flowering occurs in early May, which usually protects it from frost. The flowers are destroyed by frost from -2 to -3°C (28.4 to 26.6°F). The Delbard Celeste Apple Tree is a hardy plant that can withstand temperatures around -30°C (-22°F), making it suitable for cultivation in most regions. It is a self-sterile variety which, despite its vigour, produces poor-quality pollen, making it very weakly capable of pollinating other apple varieties. Therefore, the presence of apple trees that flower at the same time is necessary. The varieties Delbartardive, Royale Delbard, Delbard Jubilé, and Reine des reinettes are suitable for cross-pollination. Ornamental apple trees, such as Malus Perpetu Evereste and John Downie flower abundantly and can be excellent pollinators.

The Delbard Celeste Apple Tree is a vigorous variety, with early fruiting and high productivity. The fruiting, uniform and abundant, begins around the end of October. The apple can be consumed raw or cooked, in compotes, in pastries, paired with cheeses, or as an accompaniment to savoury dishes, such as with black pudding, pork, or in salads. Easy to consume, the apple provides a great feeling of satiety. Rich in carbohydrates and fructose, it is invigorating, energizing, and rehydrating. Its content of vitamins A, B, C, and E, minerals, antioxidants, and fibre makes the apple a health asset. The fruits can be stored until March. Storage can be done in a cool, dry place, protected from light, at a temperature around 8 to 10°C (46.4 to 50°F), or in a cold room, sealed off from outside air, at a temperature of 1 to 3°C (33.8 to 37.4°F). The apple releases ethene, a gas that promotes fruit ripening. To accelerate the ripening of other fruits or vegetables, place your apples nearby.

Very popular thanks to its fruit, the apple tree finds its place in the garden for the pleasure of young and old alike. Among a wide range of apple trees, it is easy to find the variety that best suits your tastes.