Do Gala Apple Trees Need a Pollinator?

Gala apple trees perform best when a cross pollinator is used.

Gala apples are prized for their mild, sweet taste which makes them suitable for both fresh eating and baking. Another aspect of the Gala apple that is a plus to some growers is the early harvest time. Galas are one of the first apples to reach ripeness in early August. This means the Gala produces blossoms early, too. For pollination to occur, another apple, including another Gala or crabapple tree that blooms at the same time, must be nearby.

Pollination

Pollination is the fertilization of the female flower by the pollen contained in the male flower. The ovary will develop in a fruit and the fertilized style becomes the seed. Both flowers must be blooming at the same time for this to occur.

Self-Fruitful

The Gala is technically self-fruitful, meaning one Gala apple tree can pollinate another. However, this method of pollination does not promote the best crop. Crops will be smaller than if cross pollination is used.

Cross Pollination

To generate the best possible crop, apple trees require another tree of a different variety for pollination. The alternate tree must bloom at the same time. Good candidates for cross pollinating with the Gala are the red delicious, golden delicious and Fuji.

References

• North Carolina State University: Growing Apple Trees in the Home Garden
• Purdue University: Pollination of Fruits and Nuts
• Missouri State University: Pollinating Fruit Crops

Resources

• Texas A&M University: Home Fruit Production: Apples