Washington Apple Trivia

How does Washington state rank in apply production nationally?

Washington ranks first and grows three times as many total apples as New York, the second largest producer. We grow almost as many apples as the next five states combined - New York, Michigan, California, Pennsylvania and Virginia. Washington supplies nearly 60% of all fresh eating apples.

Where are Washington apples sold?

In all 50 states and more than 30 countries.

What varieties are the top commercial varieties grown in Washington?

Red Delicious 70%
Golden Delicious 20%
Granny Smiths 6%
Rome Beauty 1%
Wineaps 0.5%
other varieties 2.5%

How are Washington apples picked?

All apples are picked by hand... approximately 10-12 billion apples every fall.

Why will "An Apple a Day Keeps the Doctor Away" as the old proverb goes?

If the old adage is true, it's because the pectin and fiber in an apple can help reduce serum cholesterol levels and help prevent some forms of cancer. Besides that, it's naturally sweet and fun to eat.

What makes apple turn red?

The cool nights of late August and early September trigger a change in the enzymes of the apple skin to change the color from green to red. This same condition will put a pink "blush" on green Granny Smiths or yellow Golden Delicious apples.

Why do apples crunch?

Apples crunch because they are composed of tiny cells filled with water. When you bite into an apple, those cells explode into a loud crunch because apple cell walls are strong. To ensure a crunchy apple, Washington state has established minimum firmness standards for Red Delicious and Golden Delicious apples.

What is the best way to store apples at home?

Always refrigerate your apples at home as cold as possible without freezing. Apples will ripen and therefore turn soft ten times faster at room temperature and nearly five times faster at 40F than at 32F.

What makes Eastern Washington the premiere growing region?

The climate in Eastern Washington is ideal for growing apples - a long growing season with hot days, cool nights, low rainfall (only 7-10 inches annually), yet abundant irrigation water and fertile soil. All this provided by nature and tended by dedicated apple growers.