SKU: 74430202265

Old School Apple Tree

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Description

Old School Apple TreeEvery rare tree purchase supports historical orchard preservation Limited availabilityreserve up to 5 rare trees per order while supplies last Each handpicked tree includes a durable etched metal display tag and will be shipped in a 6 foot box to ensure optimal growth Standard on Domestic Apple Rootstock The Old School Apple tree, discovered near a historic schoolhouse in Forest City, California, is a remarkable find that combines historical

Every rare tree purchase supports historical orchard preservation

Limited availability—reserve up to 5 rare trees per order while supplies last

Each handpicked tree includes a durable etched metal display tag and will be shipped in a 6-foot box to ensure optimal growth

Standard on Domestic Apple Rootstock

The Old School Apple tree, discovered near a historic schoolhouse in Forest City, California, is a remarkable find that combines historical significance with exceptional fruit quality. This tree, standing ten feet tall and thriving in the shade of a large schoolhouse built in the 1800s, produces medium to large apples that ripen in early October at an elevation of 4,500 feet. With bright, yellow-green flesh and skin covered in a powdery pastel bloom, this apple is both visually appealing and delicious. The sunny side of the apple turns a bright red in full sun, while those in the shade develop yellow with red sun spots. The Old School Apple’s crisp flesh, subacid, sugary-sweet juice, and superb taste make it a must-have for fresh eating, apple juice, and cider.

Historical Significance of the Old School Apple Tree

Forest City, originally known as Brownsville, was established during the California Gold Rush following the discovery of gold in 1852. By 1854, the town had grown significantly and was renamed Forest City. At its height, the town was home to the Bald Mountain Drift Mine, the largest of its kind in California. However, a devastating fire in 1865 left much of the town in ruins, and it was never fully rebuilt. Today, Forest City is considered a ghost town, with only a few residents and some original buildings, including the dance hall, schoolhouse, and a few homes, still standing.

The Old School Apple tree’s discovery in this historic town adds to its allure, making it not just an apple tree, but a living piece of history. The schoolhouse, where the tree was found, serves as a reminder of the town’s past, and the apple tree, with its large crop of high-quality apples, is a testament to the resilience of both the tree and the community. The Old School Apple is one of many unique apple varieties found in Forest City, a town that has become known for its high-quality apples, particularly those growing at high elevations with significant chill hours.

Felix Gillet, a pioneering horticulturist who established his nursery in nearby Nevada City in the 19th century, is closely associated with the history of apple cultivation in the Sierra Nevada. Gillet introduced a wide range of fruit and nut trees to California, many of which continue to thrive today.

How to Grow an Apple Tree: Cultivating the Old School Apple

Growing an Old School Apple tree requires careful attention to its specific needs and a commitment to providing the right conditions for healthy growth and fruit production. The process begins with selecting an appropriate planting site, ensuring the tree has the best chance to thrive.

The Old School Apple tree, like many traditional apple varieties, requires a location with full sun. This means it needs at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Sunlight is crucial for the development of the apple’s bright red color on the sunny side, while those in the shade remain yellow with red sun spots. The tree should be planted in well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level, ideally between 6.0 and 7.0. Soil that retains too much moisture can lead to root rot and other issues, so good drainage is essential.

Planting is best done in early spring or late fall when the tree is dormant. This allows the roots to establish themselves before the onset of the growing season. The planting hole should be twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep, with the graft union—where the rootstock meets the scion—positioned above the soil line to prevent the scion from rooting. After planting, the tree should be watered thoroughly to help settle the soil and eliminate air pockets.

The Old School Apple tree requires a certain number of chill hours, and periods of cold weather, to break dormancy and set fruit. This makes it well-suited to regions with cold winters, such as the Sierra Nevada. Without sufficient chill hours, the tree may struggle to produce fruit, so it’s important to consider the local climate when choosing to plant this variety.

While the Old School Apple tree may produce some fruit on its own, cross-pollination with another apple variety can significantly increase fruit yield. Planting another apple tree nearby, ideally one that blooms at the same time, can enhance pollination. Additionally, the presence of bees and other pollinators in the area will further improve the chances of a bountiful harvest.

Watering is crucial, particularly during the first few years of the tree’s life. Deep watering once a week, providing about 1-2 inches of water, is recommended. As the tree matures, it will become more drought-tolerant, but regular watering during dry periods will support continued growth and fruit production. Mulching around the base of the tree helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds, creating a more favorable environment for the tree.

Fertilization is another important aspect of caring for the Old School Apple tree. Applying a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or organic compost in early spring, before new growth begins, provides the nutrients needed for healthy growth and fruit development. It’s important to avoid over-fertilizing, as too much nitrogen can lead to vigorous vegetative growth at the expense of fruit production. A balanced approach will support both the tree’s overall health and the quality of the fruit.

Pruning is essential for maintaining the health and productivity of the Old School Apple tree. Prune the tree in late winter or early spring before the buds break. Focus on removing dead, damaged, or diseased branches, as well as any branches that are crossing or growing inward. Proper pruning allows for good air circulation and light penetration, which helps reduce the risk of disease and promotes even ripening of the apples.

Harvesting Apples

The Old School Apple tree produces fruit that ripens in early October. One of the notable characteristics of this apple is its ability to hang on the tree for an extended period while retaining its crispness and flavor. This allows for flexibility in harvesting, enabling growers to pick the apples at the optimal time for their intended use.

To harvest the apples, gently lift the fruit and twist it slightly. If the apple detaches easily from the tree, it is ready to be picked. Harvesting at the right time is crucial to ensuring the best flavor and texture. Apples left on the tree too long may become overripe, while those picked too early may not reach their full flavor potential.

The Old School Apple is highly versatile, making it an excellent choice for fresh eating, apple juice, and cider. Its crisp flesh and subacid, sugary-sweet juice offer a delightful eating experience, while its superb taste makes it a favorite for cider production. Whether enjoyed fresh or pressed into juice, the Old School Apple is a standout variety that is sure to please.

Storing Apples

Proper storage of apples is essential for maintaining their quality and extending their shelf life. The Old School Apple is known for its excellent storage capabilities, especially when kept in the right conditions. After harvesting, the apples should be stored in a cool, dark place with good air circulation. A root cellar is ideal, as it provides the low temperature and high humidity that apples need to stay fresh over an extended period.

To store apples, place them in shallow crates or baskets, ensuring they are not touching each other. This helps prevent the spread of any spoilage that may occur. Regularly check the apples for signs of decay, and remove any that show signs of rotting to prevent it from spreading to the other fruit.

With proper storage, Old School Apples can last well into the winter, providing a fresh and flavorful fruit supply long after the harvest season has ended. This makes them a valuable addition to any homestead or orchard, offering a reliable source of food throughout the colder months.

Conclusion

The Old School Apple tree is a historically significant and highly productive variety that offers a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and versatility. Its connection to the historic mining town of Forest City adds to its allure, making it a true heritage tree with deep roots in the history of apple cultivation in California. By understanding how to grow an apple tree like the Old School Apple and taking the necessary steps to care for it, you can enjoy bountiful harvests of delicious apples year after year. Whether for fresh eating, juicing, or storing apples for winter, the Old School Apple is a timeless and valuable addition to any orchard.

 

 

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SKU: 74430202265

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Verified Purchase
ARS
Omaha, US
★★★★★ 5
Quality & Comfort with Fully Adjustable Support
Team Name: Eden, Size: Queen, Color: Classic
I used to buy pricey, handmade, 100% down pillows—until I learned about the cruelty behind down production. I stopped using down entirely: pillows, comforters, jackets, everything. Then began the long search for something that could at least come close to the comfort of down, I tried Tempur and countless others, but nothing came close. As a side sleeper, I need a pillow that’s high, SOFT, supportive, conforming, and huggable. After wasting money on at least five different pillows, I finally tried the Coop Home Goods Eden Pillow because of its adjustability. The cover is kind of thick, soft, and well‑made (I use a nice cotton pillow cover over it). The filling is soft and high quality. You can customize the height and firmness however you like. It even comes with plenty of extra fill. To my surprise, the shredded foam doesn’t make the pillow clumpy—something every other similar pillow I tried struggled with. The surface stays smooth and soft, and it’s been a total game‑changer. It’s a keeper! I’ve had mine for almost four years now and only needed to add more filling once, about 8–10 months ago. Toss it in the dryer on low with a couple of tennis balls, and it fluffs up like new. And the icing on the cake: outstanding customer service. I highly recommend this pillow and will definitely buy it again
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Reviewed in the United States on December 26, 2025
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Verified Purchase
Andrew L. Carpenter
Lake Worth, US
★★★★★ 3
Nothing like the original Eden, don’t buy the name
Team Name: Eden Cool+, Size: King, Color: Classic
I’ve had the original Coop Eden for 5+ years and it has been a great pillow, very comfortable, soft but supportive but when I purchased a new mattress I wanted to refresh my pillow and saw the Eden Cool+ and wanted to give it a try. I figured it could only be better than the original Eden…but it is not. While the outer cover is noticeably cooler to the touch, it is not soft like the Eden. Also, this cool material mostly gets negated if you use a pillow case anyway. The shaped fill material I would also say is “lumpier” for lack of a better word than the shredded material in the original. The combination of the harder, less supple outer casing and the lumpy material just aren’t a good combination. I will say it does sleep slightly cooler than the original Eden but not enough for the sacrifice in comfort. I would absolutely consider going back to the original Eden.
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Reviewed in the United States on February 26, 2026
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Verified Purchase
Chris B
Natrona Heights, US
★★★★★ 5
Unmatched Pillow with Unmatched Customer Service!!! 5 STAR ALL AROUND
Team Name: Eden Cool+, Size: King, Color: Classic
## A Dream Come True (and Customer Service to Match!) From the moment I first laid my head on the Coop Eden Cool+ pillow, I knew I'd found something special. It's truly a game-changer for hot sleepers like me. The "Cool+" technology isn't just a gimmick; it actually works to keep my head and neck comfortably cool throughout the night, leading to the most refreshing sleep I've had in years. The adjustable fill is brilliant, allowing me to customize the loft perfectly for my sleep style, which means no more waking up with neck pain. The support is fantastic – it cradles my head without feeling too firm, and it holds its shape beautifully. However, what truly elevates my experience to a full five stars, beyond the exceptional product itself, is the **dedicated and outstanding customer service**. I had a minor issue with my initial pillow (a rare manufacturing defect, which can happen with any product). I reached out to Coop Home Goods, and their response was nothing short of phenomenal. They were incredibly prompt, empathetic, and went above and beyond to resolve the issue swiftly and completely. They genuinely cared about my satisfaction and ensured I was left with a perfect product. It's rare to find a company that not only produces a superior product but also stands behind it with such integrity and genuine concern for their customers. The Coop Eden Cool+ pillow is an investment in your sleep, and knowing that you're backed by such an incredible customer service team makes it an even easier decision. Highly, highly recommend!
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Reviewed in the United States on August 8, 2025
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Amazon Customer
Whiting, US
★★★★★ 5
Great for side sleepers
It always seems hard to find the perfect pillow when you’re a side-sleeper. This one is great. It comes compressed so you will want to allow some time for it to fully fluff back up. The cover is soft and smooth. I love that it isn’t overstuffed. It provides gentle support and a lot of comfort. I was worried it may be too warm since it is polyester, but it is very breathable and I have not had any issues with feeling overly warm on it. It fits a standard size pillow case. It’s not overly stuffed like some other pillows I’ve tried that were specifically for side-sleepers. I think this world be a great pillow for any sleeping position, really. I wasn’t expecting to love a pillow this affordable, but it gets the job done and I get a good night of sleep. I’ll be purchasing some more for our guest room.
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Reviewed in the United States on May 10, 2025
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Jimmylee
Dallas, US
★★★★★ 5
Incredibly Comfortable and Supportive — My New Favorite Pillow!
I wasn’t expecting to love this pillow as much as I do, but the DIORIS large sleeping pillow really exceeded my expectations. From the first night, I noticed a difference in the way my neck and shoulders felt in the morning—less tension, better alignment, and overall more restful sleep. The fill is just the right balance between plush and supportive. It doesn’t flatten out during the night, which is a problem I’ve had with other pillows, especially those that come overstuffed or too soft. This one holds its shape well but still has that cozy, cloud-like feel when you lay your head on it. I’m a side and back sleeper, and this pillow works beautifully in both positions. It’s also large enough that I don’t feel like I’m falling off it during the night, but not so big that it takes over the whole bed. One suggestion: if you’re picky about loft, you might want to give it a gentle fluff or adjust the fill before your first night. But honestly, I didn’t need to do much—it was pretty much perfect out of the bag. Highly recommended if you're looking for a high-quality, comfortable, and generously sized pillow that supports a great night’s sleep!
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Reviewed in the United States on May 9, 2025

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