By Andi Anderson
As apple season arrives in Michigan, farmers across the state are gearing up for what promises to be another fruitful harvest. The Michigan Apple Committee has announced that this year's crop is expected to yield approximately 30.5 million bushels, marking the third consecutive year of above-average apple production.
Diane Smith, the executive director of the Michigan Apple Committee, noted that this year's harvest is ahead of schedule, with some varieties like galas ripening about ten days earlier than usual.
“I don’t remember us ever really being 10 days early like this,” Smith said. The unusual timing is attributed to warmer-than-normal temperatures during late winter and early spring, which caused apple trees to bud sooner. However, Smith assures that the early growth will not negatively impact the quality of the apples. In fact, she anticipates excellent sugar content and larger-sized apples due to the favorable weather conditions.
Michigan boasts nearly 15 million apple trees spread across more than 700 family-run apple farms. The state is renowned for producing around a dozen commercial apple varieties, including popular ones like galas and honeycrisp, as well as newer varieties such as ambrosia and evercrisp.
Michigan ranks as the second or third largest apple-producing state in the U.S., depending on the year, often competing with New York for the position.
Consumers can look forward to finding Michigan apples at about 200 farm markets and cider mills across the state, as well as at over 12,000 retail grocery stores nationwide.
With the apple crop coming in strong and early this year, Michiganders and apple enthusiasts nationwide can expect a bountiful and delicious season ahead.
Photo Credit: istock-rixipix
Categories: Michigan, Crops, Fruits and Vegetables