Apples are one of Australia's most widely grown temperate fruits, thriving in regions with sufficient winter chill: the Adelaide Hills, Granite Belt, Yarra Valley, Orange NSW, and the Perth Hills. Most varieties need 500-1000 chill hours (below 7°C) to break dormancy and set fruit reliably. Low-chill varieties like Anna and Sundowner suit milder coastal climates, while Akane, McIntosh, Jonathan, Mutsu, and Snow (Yalca) perform best in genuinely cold winters. Heritage growers can access over 100 named varieties through specialist heritage fruit tree suppliers. Most apples require cross-pollination, so plant at least two compatible varieties. Apples prefer deep, well-drained loam with a pH of 6.0-6.5. Water consistently during fruit development to prevent bitter pit and cracking. Prune during winter dormancy to maintain an open vase or central leader shape. Expect fruit from January to May depending on variety and region. In WA, all apple plant material is subject to biosecurity controls; purchase only from certified interstate nurseries or local licensed propagators. Codling moth is the primary pest; use exclusion bags or approved sprays.