Apple harvest is not too far away. Ripening seems to be about seven to ten days later than in past years but we’re progressing towards harvest. The freeze we experienced in late April damaged the first blooms and so we had to depend on the second blooms to get pollinated and produce fruit. We anticipate being at our usual Farmers’ Markets in about two weeks.
First apples to harvest were the Early Harvest or Transparent variety. These apples were picked and sold to our customers who have “standing orders.” This variety of apple is an heirloom, very difficult to find in modern orchards. The Early Harvest is not a type of apple recommended for long term storage and picking it without cosmetic damage is difficult. Basically, it is recommended for use in applesauce as it makes a very fine textured white sauce. Some of our customers use it for pies but the apple breaks down and makes a “saucy” type pie.
Next apples to harvest are the Gingergold, Zestar and Sansa. After the harvest of these varieties, we will be in “full swing,” picking the ever popular Gala and Honeycrisp. Just the beginning as many favorite varieties will follow and be offered to our customers.
We’ve had ample rainfall during the month of July and this has reduced the need for irrigation. However, ample rainfall, hot temperatures and longer days of sunlight produce weeds. Weeds are indeed a nemesis in our orchard. Our efforts to be better caretakers of the environment and use less herbicides allows an overgrowth of weeds especially the invasive vines. We spend hours pulling weeds from the newly planted trees and using weedeaters. Sometimes we feel we are fighting a losing battle!
Again, a reminder to please shop local. Visit your local Farmers’ Markets and enjoy the fresh vegetables and fruits that are offered by the growers. Farmers’ Markets offer transparency to you the consumer. Check things out, ask questions and visit with the vendors who spend many hours producing quality food products. We’ll be there soon and hope to see our old customers and welcome new customers as well.