Apples in the National Fruit Collection – Howgate Wonder
The National Fruit collection at Brogdale is home to over 2,000 apple varieties just waiting to be discovered.
The Howgate Wonder is a cross between Blenheim Orange and Newton Wonder. It was first grown in 1916 at Howgate Lane in Bembridge on the Isle of Wight. The tree was bred by Mr George Wratten who took 2 grafts, one of which received the RHS award of merit in 1929. The tree was introduced to the National Fruit Collection in 1932 by Stuart Low Co.
Howgate Wonder is a easy to grow and produces good crops of large sharp-flavoured cooking apples. The flavour has plenty of tangy acidity, but it is not quite as sharp as a Bramley. When cooked it produces an attractive lumpy puree, and it can also be used for juicing. If you like an acidic apple Howgate Wonder can also be eaten fresh. The apples can be stored in a cold shed and will keep until the following spring.
With so many varieties unlike anything you will find in your regular supermarket, the fruit filled orchards are a must see! Discover more on a guided tour of the orchards with our expert knowledgeable guides. Join one of the 3 times a day tours (11am, 1pm & 2:30) until the end of October. FIND OUT MORE HERE…
