There are hundreds of Malus domestica varieties, and some varieties have several strains, each with its own characteristics. Apples that are well adapted to the Bay Area include the Fuji and Gala varieties. They feature delicious fruit that is sweet, juicy, and crisp making them perfect for eating and cooking. These trees prefer moist, well-drained soil with lots of sun. A cool climate is needed for good coloration and the production of fruit. Winter chilling requirements are between 1200–1500 hours below 45°F. Foggy days and wet dews can cause heavy cosmetic russeting on fruit. It’s best to plant apple trees in the cold season from January through March. Apple trees also require cross-pollination from another variety that blooms at the same time and produces abundant amounts of pollen. Gala, for example, is a self-fertile variety, but planting it with another pollinating variety will yield better tree health and fruit production results