Virginia apples should be plentiful and extra sweet

Although winter heat, spring freezes and too much late spring/early summer rain combined to make 2016 a challenging year for Virginia’s apple growers, the state is on track to have a good crop.

Growers having been picking Gala apples since August and are now picking Red and Golden Delicious apples, with Ginger Gold, Pink Lady, McIntosh, Honey Crisp, Stayman and more to follow.

Most of the Commonwealth has been dry just prior to harvest, which brings out the natural sugars for a very sweet apple.

With the cooler temperatures at night, a deep red color is developing on the red varieties.

Virginia apples may be a little smaller this year but the supply should be plentiful at fruit stands and in stores. Pick-your-own farms should also have plenty of apples, but the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) always recommends calling first for hours of operation and fruit availability.

VDACS Commissioner Sandra J. Adams was quoted as saying in a press release, “The Commonwealth is the seventh-largest U.S. apple-growing state, and many consumers in our region, the U.S. and around the globe look forward to Virginia Grown apples each year.”

Adams also noted that the apple harvest continues until November.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, apples were Virginia’s 15th largest agricultural commodity with farm cash receipts totaling $37 million in 2014, the last year for which we have figures. The Commonwealth is home to more than 150 commercial apple growers, as well as many pick-your-own farms that sell directly to the consumer. In addition Virginia growers export apples to India, Panama, Costa Rica, Guatemala and other countries.

Virginia offers many ways to celebrate this favorite fall fruit, including festivals that feature pick-your-own apples, a selection of ready-picked varieties and apple products.

Virginia Apple Growers Association just launched a revamped website at VirginiaApples.net with a listing of apple-related fall events. Consumers also may search for orchards, events, pick-your-own farms and more online at VirginiaGrown.com.