Tydeman’s Early Worcester

Why you should be excited

Tydeman's Early Worcester, child of McIntosh and Worcester Pearmain, was introduced mid-20th century.

The story of Tydeman's Early Worcester

For a brief period in the middle of the 20th century, Tydeman's Early Worcester was a fairly big thing, at least in France, the Netherlands, England and British Columbia.

Popular as a fresh-eating apple in the years immediately following its 1945 introduction, it nicely combines the flavour of Worcester Pearmain (one parent) with the juiciness of McIntosh (the other).

But since folks have long looked for early apples with good eating qualities plus some ability to keep, Tydeman's Early Worcester's short shelf-life doomed it to a relatively brief period as a popular commercial variety.

Although a decent apple, more recent early varieties -- Pristine and Williams' Pride, for example --  have made it a nostalgia apple.

Tydeman's Early Worcester Facts

Its origins

Raised from a seed in Kent, England, 1929. Introduced in 1945.

Flavour, aroma, texture

The white flesh -- when fully ripened -- has a hint of strawberry flavour and is very juicy.

Appearance

Medium in size, with bright crimson and darker red stripes over the pale yellow background skin colour.

When they’re available

Early season (usually in early September).

Quality for fresh eating

Good.

Quality for cooking

Mainly used for fresh-eating.

Keeping ability

Limited (a few weeks when kept refrigerated).