An 'orchard grade' is a tree that may be somewhat shorter, slightly crooked, or a bit scratched, or for some other reason is not a perfect front lawn specimen. These trees will work just as well in an orchard as a first or number one would, since they still produce the very same fruit.

The story of the Conestogo comes complete with whimsical Johnny Appleseed connotations. It begins a generation or so ago, with a housewife from the village of Conestogo, ON, who ate an unnamed apple at a friend's home. It left such an impression on her, she determined to plant the seeds. Now, of course, any reputable nurseryman would have advised her against it. The odds of apple seedlings producing great fruit are similar to being hit by lightning. On Christmas Day! But, she didn't ask. Like the little red hen, she went ahead and planted them. One of them grew and in due time, apples appeared on it's spreading branches. And lo-they were not merely acceptable, but closer to sublime! Rather large, with a distinctive knobby shape, a crispy-crunchy texture, and a pleasant, aromatic flavour, the apple made immediate friends. It has proven to be very versatile, being equally at home in pies and sauce as fresh eating. The tree is well on in years and continues to prosper although treated with benign neglect. In the few years since we've become aware of it, many in our family have come to regard the apple as a personal favourite. We have no idea how the Conestogo will perform in different parts of the country, so we've made it available at a special introductory price, in hopes it will generate feedback from all over.

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