What apple tree to buy

The Tree Center

They say an apple a day keeps the doctor away. So, why not grow your own?

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Apple Trees For Sale

Apple Trees are one of the most well-known fruiting trees, with history in religions, mythologies, and cultures from around the world. Apple Trees are not traditionally a United States tree, though “as American as apple pie” has become a familiar notion. In fact, Apple Trees originate in Central Asia – cultivated throughout Asia and Europe, colonists brought the Apple Tree to the United States in the 1600s.

It grows readily from seed, though common store-bought apples are typically taken from root graft trees instead. Most common varieties of apple today have been carefully cultivated for taste, appearance, and disease resistance. Planting an Apple Tree provides not only peaceful shade, but also edible profits that recognize the hard work of the gardener. Apple Trees not only provide fruit, but they are also ornamental trees, accenting gardens and lawns with ease.

It is important to adequately research any species of plant before purchasing and planting the tree. Apple Trees are no different. Though easy to grow from seed, the Apple Tree fruit is often most enjoyable when grown from a root graft tree. Apple Trees are easy to grow, yet they do have specific requirements with regard to soil, sun, and water.

How to Buy Apple Trees

Apple Trees grow readily from seed; however, seed-grown Apple Trees have a variety of undesirable attributes. They take many years before they will become fruit bearing, and the reproductive process of the apple seed does not ensure parental traits are passed on to the next generation. It is best to buy an Apple Tree from a reputable nursery or arborist, such as The Tree Center. The initial care given by The Tree Center ensures healthy roots and plant prior to the proper planting and care the Apple Tree sapling will earn at home.

How to Plant Apple Trees

Sun: Plant in full sun with minimal shade from buildings or other trees.

Water: Water frequently. In general, trees require one inch of rain per week. Irrigation systems should be used if fruit-bearing is a desired trait.

Soil: Well-draining loamy soil.

Pruning: Heavy pruning is required in order to earn edible fruits.

When to Plant: Plant in late fall or early spring.

Research is the first step in the Apple Tree planting process. Determining a desirable planting location, preparing for watering and pruning needs, and adequately preparing for long-term needs of the Apple Tree should all be taken into account prior to purchasing. Once the Apple Tree has been determined to be well-suited to the planting location, buy an appropriate Apple Tree species from The Tree Center.

When the Apple Tree sapling arrives, examine the root ball carefully. The root ball is the mass of roots at the bottom of the Apple Tree. These determine the size of the hole that will be dug.

Dig a hole that is three times as wide as the Apple Tree’s root ball. The hole should be approximately 2 feet deep. After the hole has been dug, loosen the hole’s walls and backfill enough loosened soil into the hole so that when placed in the hole, the crown of the Apple Tree’s root ball is exposed by one inch. The tree will settle over time. Hold the tree vertically in the hole and backfill with soil and water. Mulch and water immediately.

Soil Type

Soil can be categorized in a variety of ways. Specifically, soil is usually characterized by the size of its particles, its ability to drain water, its pH, and its nutrient qualities. Apple Trees are adaptable with regard to soil. Despite this, they prefer well-draining loamy soil with a relatively neutral to slightly acidic pH. Make sure Apple Trees are not left in heavy or poorly draining soils, as they will not grow well in standing water. If planting Apple Trees with the hopes of bearing adequate amounts of fruit, it is wise to have the soil tested since compensating for strong pH or lacking nutrients is easier prior to planting.

Water Access

Apple Trees are heavy water consumers. In the summer, a large, healthy Apple Tree can consume as much as 50 gallons of water a day. Irrigation systems are beneficial when planting Apple Trees. Drip or sprinkler irrigation systems can be used to effectively monitor and distribute water to the Apple Tree. Mulch can be used to help conserve water usage. In general, an Apple Tree should receive at least an inch of rainfall a week.

Mulch and Fertilizer

Mulch and fertilizer can both be used effectively in the growth of Apple Trees. Mulch should be used in a three inch layer in a three foot radius around the base of the tree. Mulch will help retain water and nutrients for the Apple Tree, thereby decreasing run-off and standing water. Natural mulches, such as those made of bark or wood chips, will also decompose. This will add nutrient-rich matter to the surrounding soil.

Fertilizer can also be used effectively with Apple Trees; however, care and caution should be shown when applying and using fertilizers in any planting process. In general, use a well-balanced slow release fertilizer. Do not apply to a recently planted tree. Avoid using fertilizers if possible.

Information on Apple Trees

Ithunn of Norse mythology is the protector of the Tree of Life, whose apples keep the Norse gods immortal and healthy. Many Christians believe the tree in the Garden of Eden was an Apple Tree, though this is considered only one possible translation of the word malus, which means both ‘apple’ and ‘evil’ with various accents on the ‘a’. From Germanic paganism to Greek mythology, the apple appears as a symbol of youth, immortality, life, sexuality, and health. Apple Trees are widely planted throughout much of the world today, and the different varieties are enjoyed for their tender flavor.

Apple Tree Varieties and Cultivars

There are many types of Apple Tree available throughout the United States. Heirloom Apple Trees, Northern Apple Trees, and Southern Apple Trees are three main categories, while individual species include the Gala Apple Tree, the Fuji Apple Tree, and the McIntosh Apple Tree. Below, read about the main categories.

Heirloom Apple Trees

Heirloom Apple Trees are primarily grown as a nod to the locality of the planting area. With species as diverse as the Newtown Pippin, Spitzenburg, and Grimes Golden, these apple varieties are not generally planted for their high profits. Usually, Heirloom Apple Trees have low yields and high disease and pest infestations; however, gardeners continue to plant them for their unique flavors, those that are unknown in the common supermarket. Heirloom Apple Trees are typically smaller than the more common Apple Tree varieties, and the apples they produce display oblong shapes, russetting, and low yields. May Apple Tree planters are willing to forsake the apple profits, instead opting to keep a dying tree variety alive.

Northern Apple Trees

Not all Apple Trees grow well in all locations. USDA Hardiness Zones 6 and below require Apple trees able to withstand cold winters, heavy snowfall, and significant seasonal changes. Fortunately, there are several varieties of Apple Tree able to withstand the cooler northern climates. The Northern Spy, St. Johnsbury, the Sherry Apple, the Honeycrisp Apple Tree, the September Ruby, the Gala Apple Tree, the Fuji Apple Tree, the Granny Smith Apple Tree, the McIntosh Apple Tree, and the Sunnybrook Apple Trees can also grow easily in northern climates.

Southern Apple Trees

USDA Hardiness Zones 6 and above are warmer, and alternate between drier and wetter climates based on location. Southern Apple Trees can produce just as much fruit as their northern counterparts, although Apple Trees often benefit from some colder temperatures. These Apple Tree varieties are typically slightly sweeter and meatier. Southern Apple Tree species include the Anna Southern Apple Tree, the Gala Apple Tree, the Fuji Apple Tree, the Pink Lady Apple Tree, and the Dorsett Southern Apple Tree.

Benefits of Apple Trees

Many homeowners and landscapers choose the Apple Tree for its fruiting benefits. The Apple Tree doubles as both an ornamental accent tree and profitable tree. Depending on the variety of Apple Tree, many of the apples can be used for baking, ciders, or eating. It is also relatively easy to grow Apple Trees – they require some moderate pruning during later stages of growth to increase apple yields.

Apple Tree Concerns

Despite the many benefits, the Apple Tree is susceptible to a variety of diseases and pests, which frequently afflict new growers. The most common afflictions are cankers, scabs, brown rot, honey fungus, and poor fruiting. Honey fungus and root rot frequently affect root systems, which will impact fruiting and tree growth. Stems and branches can also display cankers, galls, spots, blights, and wilt. Observe limbs for signs of these fungi and diseases, and be sure to apply an appropriate fungicide as needed.

Wooly aphids also impact the appearance of the tree. Typically harmless in small numbers, they can quickly overtake a small Apple Tree. Invest in pesticides, natural or chemical, as needed to deter pests. Finally, not all Apple Trees will produce fruit quickly or with high yields. Continue to monitor weather conditions, pests and diseases, birds, biennial bearing tendencies, and pruning to ensure successful fruiting.

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19 Apple Tree Varieties That’ll Knock Your Socks Off

If you’ve planted an apple tree and wondered why it never produced more than a few beautiful blossoms, you’re in good company.

Many of us will head out to the garden centers in springtime, purchase our favorite type of apple tree, and rush home to plant it.

We tend to these new plantings with love and attention, and we even understand that it could take a few years before we see a single fruit.

Three years go by, and nothing. Then four. Then five. And then six. And now we’re wondering what we did wrong.

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The solution is at once complex and simple, but don’t worry. Keep on reading, and by the end you’ll be well-prepared to choose and plant that apple tree, and then harvest its fruit.

Here’s an overview of what’s ahead:

The Best Apple Varieties and How to Get a Good Harvest

• The Important Bits
  • Growing Zones
  • Chill Hours
  • Flowering Groups
  • Height
  • Recommended Uses and Special Notes
  • I’m Feeling a Bit Lost
• Flowering Group 1
  • Early Harvest
  • Gravenstein
• Flowering Group 2
  • Lodi
  • McIntosh
• Flowering Group 3
  • Arkansas Black
  • Fuji
  • Granny Smith
  • Jonagold
  • Macoun
  • Pink Lady
  • Red Jonathan
  • Wealthy
• Flowering Group 4
  • Empire
  • Gala
  • Honeycrisp
  • Red Delicious
  • Stayman Winesap
• Flowering Group 5
  • Northern Spy
  • Red Rome
• Snack Time’s Over!

Read on for the best apple varieties for your growing zone, information on how they get along, and more.

The Important Bits

I’ve broken up the main highlights on how to grow an abundant harvest successfully below, to give you a better idea of what each key element of information actually means.

As you’re reading, you’ll get a primer on what to expect when growing apple trees; at times, it may seem a bit overwhelming.

Stick to it, and I’ll summarize at the end (see the boxed out section below)!

Growing Zones

Apple trees tend to thrive in areas with nice, cold winters. Most won’t grow anywhere warmer than zone 8, but there are a few exceptions, as you’ll see below.

Chill Hours

Cool periods are so important to apple trees that they actually need hundreds of “chill hours” every year to break dormancy, and regulate growth.

You can’t cheat this system; these trees need a specific range of cool weather hours (in the range of 32-45°F) to survive and prosper.

Determining your exact amount of chill hours can be tricky business, so a good estimate is usually the way to go. You could either calculate this number yourself by examining your average winter weather (typically from September to April) and finding a rough estimate of how many days fit this temperature range, or you can go by this map.

Another option is to use this fancy calculator and enter your zip code. The calculator can take a few minutes to get you the information you need, so a bit of patience is required.

Multiple methods are used to calculate chill hours, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. Use these numbers as estimates for your own garden.

Flowering Groups

Apple trees bloom at different periods of the year, and because most require cross-pollination between at least two types of apple, you’ll need to select trees that bloom during the same period.

You don’t need an orchard, but planting at least two trees is a requirement for fruit production.

Unsurprisingly, these flowering periods are broken into groups:

• Group 1: Pollinated by Groups 1, 2
• Group 2: Pollinated by Groups 1, 2, 3
• Group 3: Pollinated by Groups 2, 3, 4
• Group 4: Pollinated by Groups 3, 4, 5
• Group 5: Pollinated by Groups 4, 5, 6
• Group 6: Pollinated by Groups 5, 6, 7
• Group 7: Pollinated by Group 6

Some apples will self-pollinate, meaning they don’t strictly need another apple tree to produce fruit (thought this will generally help you to get a bigger harvest, in all cases).

Many trees need a different cultivar in close proximity to pollinate fruit through a process called “cross pollination”.

And don’t forget apples that are “triploid,” a biological term that translates to, “needs two separate pollinators to produce fruit.” These trees are best left to those with enough room to grow at least a few trees on their property.

Lastly, crabapple trees can pollinate regular apples, but only if they are in bloom during the same period.

Height

Pretty simple here! This is an average expected height for your trees to reach.

Most will have a spread, or width, that is similar to their height. Make sure you’ve got room for the trees to grow and spread out!

Recommended Uses and Special Notes

Each of these 19 varieties includes some recommendations or special notes. Maybe it’s a good use for the fruit, or growing considerations. Each one is different, and you’re gonna have to check out each tree to find what they are.

I’m Feeling a Bit Lost

Don’t fret! All of this information boils down to the following key points:

1. You’re going to have to plant more than one tree if you want it to produce fruit (or plant near a neighbor’s tree).
2. Make sure the tree you’re planting can grow in your USDA climate zone.
3. Your tree needs to be planted with others that flower at identical or overlapping times.
4. Your trees need to planted within 50 feet of one another to cross-pollinate.
5. Different cultivars offer different uses, such as eating out of hand, cooking and baking, or making cider.

Flowering Group 1

1. Early Harvest

Talk about an ‘Early Harvest!’ These apples are firm and crisp, and produce fruit very early.

The fruit lasts for weeks in the refrigerator, but like most apples, they taste best when fresh.

‘Early Harvest‘ also does well when pollinated with white-flowering crabapples.

Growing Zones: 3-8

Chill Hours: 800-1000

Pollinates with Flowering Groups: 1, 2

Height: 20-25’ (dwarf varieties available)

Recommended Uses and Special Notes: When picked young the fruit is excellent for baking. This tree blooms earlier than many other apple cultivars, so consider adding some white-flowering crabapples to your landscape to aid in pollination.

2. Gravenstein

‘Gravenstein’ 4- to 5-Foot Trees in #3 Containers, available from Nature Hills Nursery

If you like your apples tart (and I sure do), this might be the one you’ve been waiting to pucker up with.

A native to Denmark, the ‘Gravenstein‘ is an excellent apple for making into sauces and cider. The fruit tends to ripen unevenly, so frequent picking is recommended.

Growing Zones: 2-9

Chill Hours: 700

Pollinates with Flowering Groups: 1, 2

Height: 15-20’

Recommended Uses and Special Notes: Triploid! Great for cooking and is hardy to cold weather. Blooms earlier than most.

Flowering Group 2

3. Lodi

Oh, lordy, I love a ‘Lodi‘ apple. I’ve admittedly never had one of these unless it was from an orchard, but they’re pretty darn good to snack into.

They tend to produce their fruit earlier than many other cultivars, even in Flowering Group 2, so that’s a plus for when you want to start chowing down on homegrown fruit earlier than the fall.

Growing Zones: 3-8

Chill Hours: 800-1000

Pollinates with Flowering Groups: 1, 2, 3

Height: 10-25’

Recommended Uses and Special Notes: Triploid! Excellent for applesauce and early season pies. The fruit freezes better than it survives being refrigerated. Can handle a wider array of soils than other types.

4. McIntosh

4- to 5-Foot ‘McIntosh’ Trees in #3 Containers, available from Nature Hills Nursery

I grew up on a dying orchard dominated by McIntosh trees, so these are my favorites.

Juicy, tart, and with just the right amount of crunch, the McIntosh is perfect for snacking straight from the tree. Or, you could use them to make a pie like my aunts used to do.

They are also beautiful as an ornamental and… you know what? If you can grow a McIntosh, grow it! You won’t regret planting this hardy tree with its tasty fruit!

Growing Zones: 4-7

Chill Hours: 900

Pollinates with Flowering Groups: 1, 2, 3

Height: 15-20’

Recommended Uses and Special Notes: Cold hardy, provides a bountiful and early harvest each year. Pollinators love a McIntosh.

Flowering Group 3

5. Arkansas Black

If there was a contest for “Coolest Apple Name” it would surely be awarded to the Arkansas Black. Fortunately, the tree is also a hardy and vigorous grower.

The almost-black skin and golden flesh is perfect for cooking, but the tough fruit can be a bit much to easily snack on.

Four- to 5-foot or 5- to 6-foot trees are available from Brighter Blooms via Amazon.

Growing Zones: 4-8

Chill Hours: 800-900

Pollinates with Flowering Groups: 2, 3, 4

Height: 12-16’

Recommended Uses and Special Notes: Triploid! Fruit harvest is large but late in the season. Stores well for extended periods. Great for use in wintertime pancakes.

6. Fuji

4 to 5-Foot ‘Fuji’ Trees in #3 Containers, available from Nature Hills

A Japanese cultivar bred from American stock, the Fuji is always a favorite for fresh eating.

The fruit tastes delicious when used for juicing and cider.

Growing Zones: 6-9

Chill Hours: 200-400

Pollinates with Flowering Groups: 2, 3, 4

Height: 10-15’

Recommended Uses and Special Notes: Does not tolerate drought. Best harvested in early September. Can be stored for up to six months if refrigerated.

7. Granny Smith

4- to 5-Foot ‘Granny Smith’ Trees in #3 Containers, available from Nature Hills Nursery

My number two favorite apple, the Granny Smith is a tree with strong limbs and an equally strong flavor.

The fruit is best harvested in October, but because this tree thrives in warmer climates than most cultivars, it makes picking a pleasant experience.

Growing Zones: 6-9

Chill Hours: 400

Pollinates with Flowering Groups: 2, 3, 4

Height: 18-20’

Recommended Uses and Special Notes: Self-fertile! Great for raw snacking and in baked treats like scones (find the recipe for these and other delicious uses for your harvest on our sister site, Foodal.) Responds very well to regular, careful pruning.

8. Jonagold

A name that isn’t easy to forget, the Jonagold offers a balanced flavor and lovely appearance. The attractive fruit is delicious when eaten raw, and those lovely white flowers are easy to appreciate.

Four- to 5-foot 2-year-old trees are available from Bob Wells Nursery via Amazon.

Growing Zones: 5-8

Chill Hours: 700-800

Pollinates with Flowering Groups: 2, 3, 4

Height: 12-15’

Recommended Uses and Special Notes: Triploid! Offers a balanced flavor but needs a balanced growing area as well, with soils that are well-drained, slightly acidic, and of average fertility. Susceptible to root rot in poorly drained areas.

9. Macoun

4- to 5-Foot ‘Macoun’ Trees in #3 Containers, available from Nature Hills

With a fun-to-say name, the Macoun is another cultivar that rivals the tastiness of the McIntosh, with fruit that is very sweet.

It can be a little more picky than other cultivars in terms of ideal growing conditions, and prefers especially deep and well-draining soil. But the fruit it provides makes up for its pickiness.

Growing Zones: 4-7

Chill Hours: 600

Pollinates with Flowering Groups: 2, 3, 4

Height: 15-20’

Recommended Uses and Special Notes: Perfect for fresh eating and for purees and sauces. This type does not do well in storage and should be utilized when fresh. The growing habit is upright and requires diligent, aggressive pruning.

10. Pink Lady

With a name like Pink Lady, you can be sure that this apple is a looker. It’s a classic in the grocery store and a great mid-season variety to enjoy straight from the tree.

The trees themselves are quite lovely, and the flavor of the fruit packs a subtle tart punch.

Hold off on eating one of these after you pick it for about a month to experience the flavor at its peak.

Growing Zones: 6-9

Chill Hours: 200-400

Pollinates with Flowering Groups: 2, 3, 4

Height: 12-20’

Recommended Uses and Special Notes: Self-fruitful and a popular choice for regions of the American Southwest that are otherwise devoid of apple species.

11. Red Jonathan

An old-timey tree, the Red Jonathan possesses a uniquely sharp taste.

It is excellent for long-term storage with medium-sized apples that are perfect for snacking, and is quite the looker while in bloom.

Growing Zones: 4-8

Chill Hours: 700-800

Pollinates with Flowering Groups: 2, 3, 4

Height: 15-20’

Recommended Uses and Special Notes: Start

12. Wealthy

Quite the looker, the Wealthy possesses stunning blooms and has a flavor reminiscent of strawberries.

It is resistant to most apple illnesses, and best of all, the fruit drops on maturity. Talk about easy!

Growing Zones: 4-7

Chill Hours: 1000

Pollinates With Flowering Groups: 2, 3, 4

Height: 12-15’

Recommended Uses and Special Notes: Great for any culinary purpose. Long bloom period and very juicy fruit.

Flowering Group 4

13. Empire

The Empire is not my favorite variety – but it may be yours!

It’s hard to find a better looking fruit out there, and the modest height of this cultivar makes it an ideal solution for smaller properties.

Some folks claim that the Empire outdoes the McIntosh in sheer delectability (but I just can’t agree with that)!

Growing Zones: 4-9

Chill Hours: 800

Pollinates with Flowering Groups: 3, 4, 5

Height: About 15’

Recommended Uses and Special Notes: To avoid growing a hundred tiny apples, you’ll want to regularly thin your ‘Empire’ crop to maximize the size of your fruit.

14. Gala

Originating from New Zealand (the land down under the Land Down Under – remember that Men at Work song?), the Gala is easy to grow and offers a sweet taste.

The fruit can be stored for months at a time, and is ideal for snacking and cooking. The tree grows easily and is less picky than others.

Growing Zones: 5-8

Chill Hours: 500

Pollinates with Flowering Groups: 3, 4, 5

Height: 12-16’

Recommended Uses and Special Notes: Self-fertile… but this is not recommended. The ‘Gala’ strongly benefits from cross-pollination. Regular pruning promotes better fruit spurs. Best harvested near the end of August or early September, depending on where you live.

15. Honeycrisp

Crunchy, sweet, and a delight to look at, the Honeycrisp has excellent storage life. But better than that, it may be planted in a wide range of climates and grows vigorously.

Its taste is spectacular, reason enough for me to add one to my own yard.

Growing Zones: 3-7

Chill Hours: 800-1000

Pollinates with Flowering Groups: 3, 4, 5

Height: 14-15’

Recommended Uses and Special Notes: Self-fertile! The central leader tends to require a bit of support as the tree gets on in size and age. Take a closer look at the Honeycrisp in this feature on our sister site, Foodal.

16. Red Delicious

Some people love the Red Delicious. Having said that, I’m always reminded of my school lunchroom. It’s safe to say I’ll never be able to appreciate this apple, but it does have its advocates!

The tree grows quickly and the fruit stores for up to six months. That’s probably why it’s a mainstay in cafeterias everywhere.

Growing Zones: 5-8

Chill Hours: 700-800

Pollinates with Flowering Groups: 3, 4, 5

Height: 20-25’

Recommended Uses and Special Notes: Great for desserts. Requires regular watering, and fruit is best harvested at the end of September.

17. Stayman Winesap

Producing a good-sized crop, the Stayman Winesap grows in an appealing oval shape and sports pink flowers when in bloom.

The sweet and tart flavor of the fruit is reminiscent of wine, which makes it perfect for apple cider donuts or served alongside a glass of red.

Growing Zones: 5-8

Chill Hours: 800

Pollinates with Flowering Groups: 3, 4, 5

Height: 20-25’

Recommended Uses and Special Notes: Requires regular watering. Excellent choice for making applesauce and provides a crop size to get you all you’ll need.

Flowering Group 5

18. Northern Spy

While it may take some time to become established, the Northern Spy is an excellent apple with admirable hardiness against the cold.

It can hold its leaves well into December, and requires plenty of pruning to encourage good structure. A classic tree that requires ample work to truly enjoy!

Growing Zones: 3-7

Chill Hours: 1000

Pollinates with Flowering Groups: 4, 5, 6

Height: 25’

Recommended Uses and Special Notes: Store fruit in cool conditions to enjoy in the springtime.

19. Red Rome

The Red Rome has a distinctive droopy appearance which translates to “it’s gonna need some support.”

The tree is not especially fast growing, but because it grows later in the season, it is less susceptible to hard freezes.

The flesh of the fruit is almost hard, so it’s great for baking but less ideal for raw eating.

Three- to 5-foot semi-dwarf ‘Rome’ trees are available from Grower’s Solution via Amazon.

Growing Zones: 4-8

Chill Hours: 700

Pollinates with Flowering Group(s): 4, 5, 6

Height: 10-14’

Recommended Uses and Special Notes: Great for adding to homemade barbecue sauce. Harvest in late October, and the fruit stores well when refrigerated.

Snack Time’s Over

Now we’ve got a nice collection of apple trees to consider for our homes and gardens!

Make sure you’re planting trees that’ll grow in your zone, and also share a neighboring flowering group. And of course, make sure you’re picking the right apple for your needs.

Please leave your comments, questions, suggestions, and requests in the comments – they’re always appreciated!

And for more information on how to grow and care for apple trees, check out some of our other guides:

Product photos via Brighter Blooms, Bob Wells Nursery, Grower’s Solution, Nature Hills Nursery, and the Arbor Day Foundation Store. Uncredited photos: Shutterstock.

About Matt Suwak

Matt Suwak was reared by the bear and the bobcat and the coyote of rural Pennsylvania. This upbringing keeps him permanently affixed to the outdoors where most of his personal time is invested in gardening, bird watching, and hiking. He presently resides in Philadelphia and works under the sun as a landscaper and gardener, and by moonlight as a writer. An incessant questioning of “Why?” affords him countless opportunities to ponder the (in)significance of the great and the small. He considers folksy adages priceless treasures and is fueled almost entirely by beer and hot sauce.

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