Gala Apple Tree
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Description
About the Gala Apple Tree
Crisp, sweet, and wildly popular—the Gala Apple Tree (Malus domestica ‘Gala’) has earned its place as one of the most widely grown and best-loved apple varieties in the world. First discovered in New Zealand in the 1930s, this early-season apple is beloved for its delicious flavor, ornamental beauty, and reliable performance in home orchards.
Gala apples have a perfectly balanced sweet-tart flavor, juicy texture, and a satisfying crispness. They’re excellent for fresh eating, juicing, cooking, baking, and canning. The fruit also stores well, making Gala a go-to multipurpose apple for the kitchen and pantry.
The apples are visually stunning, with a yellow background overlaid by red-orange striping—a true standout in any harvest basket. Expect fruit to ripen in late September to early October, depending on your growing zone.
How to Grow a Gala Apple Tree
Gala apple trees are a great choice for beginner and experienced growers alike, known for their adaptability and productivity.
Site Selection & Sunlight
Requires full sun (6–8 hours per day) for best fruit development
- Thrives in well-drained loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0
Pollination
- Gala Apple Trees require a pollinator to bear fruit. See recommended pollinators below.
Care & Maintenance
- Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10 or similar)
- Prune annually in late winter to remove dead wood and promote airflow and sunlight penetration
- Watch for common apple pests and diseases such as aphids, codling moth, or apple scab, and apply treatments as needed
Chill Hours
- Requires approximately 500–700 chill hours, making Gala ideal for USDA Zones 5–8
Whether you’re planting a single tree or starting a full orchard, the Gala apple tree brings dependability, beauty, and delicious flavor to your backyard. It’s a rewarding and productive variety that earns its popularity with every crisp bite.
- View our complete list of Gala Apple Trees.
Survival Guaranteed!
Since 1816, Stark Bro’s has promised to provide customers with the very best fruit trees and plants. It’s just that simple. If your trees or plants do not survive, please let us know within one year of delivery. We will send you a free one-time replacement, with a nominal shipping fee of $9.99. If the item in question is not available, we can issue a one-time credit to your account equaling the original product purchase price or issue you a refund. Read more about our warranty policy.
Characteristics
| Bloom Color | White |
| Bloom Time | Mid |
| Chill Hours | 700 |
| Fruit Color | Red |
| Fruit Size | Medium - Large |
| Hardiness Zone Range | 5 - 8 |
| Pollination | Pollinator Required |
| Ripens/Harvest | Early October |
| Shade/Sun | Full Sun |
| Soil Composition | Loamy |
| Soil Moisture | Well Drained |
| Soil pH Level | 6.0 - 7.0 |
| Taste | Sweet, Tart |
| Texture | Crisp, Juicy |
| Years to Bear | 2 - 5 |
Size & Spacing
Mature Size
Recommended Spacing
Zone Compatibility
Pollination
This variety requires another one for adequate pollination.
Tools & Supplies
Planting & Care
Learn all about how to grow apple trees in The Growing Guide. An entire section of our website dedicated to your growing success.
