Washington apples have a rich history dating back to
the 19th century. The
region’s bountiful sunshine and rich lava-ash soil create the perfect growing
conditions for apples, and commercial orchards began establishing along the stream
banks in 1889. Today, more than 225,000 acres of orchards produce the apples
we love, nourished by the crystal clear water of the Cascade Mountains. Washington
has developed a plethora of apple varieties – some well-established classics,
some new and exciting.
In the fertile valleys and plateaus of America’s far west, growers tend orchards
that produce the world’s best apples.
More than 225,000 acres of orchards are nestled in the eastern foothills of the
picturesque Cascade Mountains at elevations from 500 to 3,000 feet above sea
level. The orchards are irrigated with plentiful and cool mountain water.
The area first became known to American pioneers at the turn of the 19th century
and by 1826, early settlers had discovered the area’s rich lava-ash soil and
plentiful sunshine created perfect conditions for growing apples. The arid climate
also meant fewer insect and disease problems and a smoother finish on the apples
than in some other places.
Noting the health and vigor of apple trees planted along stream banks, pioneers
developed irrigation systems and by 1889, commercial orchards were established.
Most apple-growing districts in the state are still located along the banks of
major rivers.
The average size of an orchard is about 100 acres, but some cover as many as
3,000 acres and employ 300 or more workers year-round. An estimated 35,000 to
45,000 pickers are employed during the peak of harvest.
Washington state growers successfully harvest a wide variety of apples including
Red and Golden
Delicious, Granny Smith, Braeburn, Jonagold, Fuji, Gala and many
others.
Orchardists continually improve growing methods to produce apples that are crisper,
juicier, more flavourful and store better.
Growers now use dwarf trees in high-density plantings to bring new orchards into
production faster. This allows orchardists to get faster return on their investment
and to respond more quickly to consumer demand for popular new varieties. The
smaller trees also improve harvest efficiency because the apples are easier to
reach. Short ladders can be used by pickers. Each apple is handpicked.
source: www.bestapples.com