Apple trees and fruit belong to the Rosaceae family or rose family of plants. Modern apples are believed to be descendents of the malus sieversii, which still grows wild in Kazakhstan. Apple trees are deciduous. There are numerous apple varieties grown throughout the U.S. with different harvest times between late summer and late fall. Pennsylvania, Washington, and Michigan are just three of thirty-six states that have commercial growers. Apples are available all year long through strict harvesting and storage guidelines that include placing apples in temperature controlled rooms to maintain freshness. Select apples with a nice color, no bruising, a firm feel, and a nice fruity fragrance. The inside flesh will be off-white, yellow, or cream-colored. Roughly forty percent of the entire yearly apple harvest is used to produce commercial products, (by Motts, Musselman’s, etc.) such as juice, sauce, and apple butter. Here are descriptions of popular apple varieties:
Gala – a pinkish red apple with golden streaks. This apple is exceptionally good for snacking, salads (eating raw), sauces, and baking. It has a mild and sweet taste.
Golden Delicious – a sweet and yellow apple that is versatile for snacking, baking, and also freezes well.
Granny Smith – a green apple. This apple has equal taste elements of sweet and tart. Good for baking and making apple sauce.
McIntosh – a green and red apple. The McIntosh is known for its sweetness and tartness. This also makes them common in packed lunches and salads. Not recommended for baking.
Red Delicious- a bright red apple. Very sweet compared to others. Good for snacking and freezing.
Rome – a red apple. Liked for its slight tartness, the Rome apple is good for baking. Great for making apple sauce and apple cider.
Helpful Hint: Health benefits of consuming apples include prevention of several types of cancer.
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