Crabapple (MALUS KLEHM'S IMPROVED BECHTEL) - 'Klehm's Improved Becthel'
The stunning, fragrant, large double pink flowers of 'Klehm's Improved Bechtel' bloom later than most crabs making this tree an outstanding specimen for continued spring season interest. It's vase-shaped form complements bushes in mass planting and it produces little or no fruit. The medium green foliage adorning the rounded shape of 'Klehm's' turns to a lovely orange and orange-red color in fall. Furthermore, this crab is excellent resistance to mildew.
At maturity, 'Klehm's Improved' shoud reach around 20 feet tall and wide with cold hardiness at USDA Hardiness Zone 4. This tree is fairly low-maintenance, but does require full sun and well-drained soil. It is happiest growing in average to moist conditions, and shouldn't be allowed to dry out. Not picky about soil type or pH and highly tolerant of urban pollution. It has a low canopy with a typical clearance of 4 feet from the ground and would be suitable to plant near power lines. It has a fast growth rate and, under ideal conditions, a life span of around 50 years or more. If pruning is required, plan to do so in late winter once the threat of extreme cold has passed. It has excellent disease resistant to mildew, fair resistance to scab and fireblight, and poor resistance to cedar-apple rust. Treat appropriately if problems should arise.