That Macoun heritage shines through in Liberty's flavor and appearance. Although best eaten fresh, Liberty does store well for several months, and then makes an excellent pie. Look for Liberty beside McIntosh and Empire at you local orchard, farm-stand, or grocery this Fall. Freedom is perhaps the 'ugly duckling' among this group of scab-resistant apples, however, Freedom is certainly not without merit. Like Liberty, Freedom originated from the Cornell-Geneva breeding program in New York state.
Fruit is large, and produced annually on well-thinned trees.
Freedom trees are very vigorous, however, and require considerable pruning effort to maintain a productive tree shape and promote good fruit coloring. Although somewhat lacking in fresh fruit flavor, the flesh is firm, juicy and nearly crisp. Harvested in early October, Freedom makes a fine addition to baked goods, and juice or cider. West Lake Rd. For more information, contact Dr. Lorraine Berkett, Plant and Soil Science Department, Hills Building, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405.