With October being National Apple Month and apple harvesting in Pennsylvania currently in full swing, it seemed like the perfect time to learn more about these delicious produce items as well as the growers who make it possible to have apples in our fruit bowl on a daily basis. Luckily, we were able to gain some insight from an extremely reputable source, Julie Bancroft, Executive Director of the PA Apple Marketing Program.
PA Eats: What makes Pennsylvania a prime apple-growing state?
Julie Bancroft: Pennsylvania’s climate, soil and topography create the perfect growing conditions for apples. As a result, Pennsylvania ranks fourth in the country for apple production, behind only Washington, New York and Michigan. Apples are also the state’s fourth largest agricultural commodity.
Which apple varieties do you think see the greatest popularity in the area?
Gala, Fuji and Honeycrisp are some of the most popular varieties in Pennsylvania, though there are nearly 20 varieties available commercially. Nearly 100 varieties are grown across the state. Farm markets carry new and lesser-known varieties like Zestar and Autumn Crisp.
Why do you think apples are such a popular fruit?
Apples are so versatile and accessible. Not only are they great for fresh snacking and in salads, but they are also popular in their processed forms like applesauce and cider. They also have countless applications in baking and cooking. With so many varieties and different flavor profiles, it’s easy for everyone to find a favorite apple. Apples are also typically available at a price point that is accessible for most. Plus, they are perfectly portable!
What are three facts about apples that may not be readily known to the general public?
- Apple harvest requires skilled labor, as each and every apple is harvested by hand.
- Apples are grown in all 67 counties of Pennsylvania.
- In commercial production, apples are not grown from seed. Orchards plant varietal rootstocks to grow trees that yield specific varieties of apples.
When is the best time for apple picking, and why is this a fantastic family outing?
In Pennsylvania, the apple harvest season begins in mid-August with early varieties like Ginger Gold and continues through to mid-November with Pink Lady being one of the last varieties to be harvested. Late September through October is probably the best time for apple picking because of the number of varieties available at that time. It’s a wonderful tradition because it’s a great group activity with family and/or friends and it’s a perfect excuse for spending time in the beautiful rolling orchards of Pennsylvania. Orchards also make really great photo backdrops for harvest selfies and impromptu family photos. The fun doesn’t end at the orchard because you leave with a bounty of delicious apples that could easily turn into a fun day of baking or applesauce making.
What can the community do to support apple growers in Pennsylvania?
The community can support the more than 270 apple growers in PA by making an effort to buy local apples. This is easy to do by shopping at farm stands and farm markets during the harvest season. However, consumers can support growers year-round by doing a bit of detective work at the grocery store. When selecting bulk apples make sure the sticker says USA, at the very least, and look for other indicators that they are local. For instance, in retail stores, PA apples will often be labeled as Eastern Apples. If buying bagged apples, a quick scan of the bag can help to identify the origin of the apples. Often the bag will have the grower or packer-shipper’s name and location. Last, because PA apples are available almost year-round, don’t forget about them once fall has passed. They are wonderful through spring and even the start of summer.
What are your three favorite items to make with apples?
Personally, I’m not much of a baker so I’m more apt to cook with apples or stir up an apple-y, autumnal libation. I often cook down apple slices (a bit of cinnamon and a splash of water is all they really need) to top whole-wheat pancakes or even grilled meats. Sliced or diced apples are perfect for fall salads with nuts and hearty blue cheese. Hard cider is a perfect base for creative fall cocktails to please any palate.
Where can readers of PA Eats learn more about apples and apple growers?
PennsylvaniaApples.org is a great destination for learning all about the health benefits of apples, finding great apple recipes and locating PA apples near you. Readers can also go to U.S. Apple’s AppletizeMe.com to take a fun quiz to learn their apple personality and get access to more great recipes and apple pairings.
Now that you have all of the info on apples and apple growers courtesy of Julie Bancroft, make sure to head out to your nearest apple orchard, farmers’ market or grocery store and pick up some delicious apple varieties to enjoy ASAP. In the meantime, learn everything you need to know about PA’s apple harvest via the below video.
- Photo of apple varieties: Kristen Kwiatkowski
- Close-up photos of apples: Alexandra Whitney Photography
