Michigan’s apple crop is right on schedule, and growers are ready to harvest the delicious fruit for consumer to enjoy.
“Throughout the COVID-19 crisis, so many events and traditions have been cancelled. But nature doesn’t get cancelled,” said Diane Smith, executive director of the Michigan Apple Committee. “Michigan’s apple growers have continued to work through the crisis and apples continue to grow. Right now they are ripening on trees and will be ready for consumers to enjoy in just a few short weeks.”
Early varieties, like Paula Red and Ginger Gold are estimated to be ready for harvest around August 25 and 27, respectively. America’s most-produced variety, the Gala, looks to be coming off trees around September 8. Honeycrisp is estimated to be ready for harvest around September 18. You can view a full schedule of estimated harvest dates here.
“There is always a great deal of excitement around apple harvest time, and this year is no exception,” said Smith. “In fact, consumers are more interested than ever in providing fresh, healthy foods for their families, as staying healthy and well has been top-of-mind over the past several months.”
“Apples are literally a symbol of health. They have numerous health benefits, and they can be eaten fresh or incorporated into recipes,” said Smith. “Michigan’s apple growers continue to be dedicated to providing safe, quality fruit throughout the COVID-19 crisis, while taking great care to keep their workers and operations safe as well.”
An official estimate of the size of Michigan’s apple crop will be released on August 21, as part of the USApple Outlook Virtual Conference.
Michigan Apple growers harvest an average of approximately 25 million bushels of apples each year. There are more than 14.9 million apple trees in commercial production, covering 34,500 acres on 775 family-run farms in Michigan.
For more information:
Diane Smith
Michigan Apple Committee
Tel: +1 (800) 456-2753
Email: News@MichiganApples.com
www.michiganapples.com