Featured Crop
California Grown Apples
Crisp and sweet, California apples are harvested in late summer and fall, perfect for snacking, baking, and cider.
Cooking classes
Mini Apple Pie Wraps
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Apple & Roasted Vegetable Salad
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Varieties
Gala, Fuji and Granny Smith thrive in our Valley orchards.
Prep Tips
Perfect fresh, baked in desserts or sliced in salads. Store in refrigerator for maximum crispness.
Nutrition
Rich in fiber and antioxidants that support gut health. Contains compounds that help regulate blood sugar.
Cultivation
California’s climate offers optimal conditions for apple cultivation. Apple trees thrive in areas with well-drained soil and adequate chilling hours ensure healthy growth and fruit development. Trees are usually planted in late winter or early spring, with fruit maturing over 5–6 months. Regular irrigation and pruning help maintain productivity, while integrated pest management ensures healthy, flavorful apples.
When can I buy apples?
Apples are available year-round in California, with peak harvest from late summer to fall, typically August through November. During this time, farmers’ markets and grocery stores offer fresh, locally grown varieties, from sweet Fuji to tart Granny Smith. California’s diverse climate ensures a steady supply of high-quality apples. When choosing apples, look for firm, heavy fruit with smooth skin and no bruises or soft spots for the best flavor and texture.
Nutritional value of apples
Apples are a low-calorie, nutrient-rich fruit packed with fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. A medium-sized apple contains about 95 calories, 25 grams of carbs, and 4 grams of fiber. Regular consumption can support digestive health, boost immunity, and promote heart health due to their high fiber and antioxidant content.
How to store apples
Store whole apples in a cool, dry place or in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator to keep them fresh for up to a month. Apples ripen faster when stored with other fruits, so it’s best to keep them separate. If you want to store apples longer, you can freeze them. Peel, core, and slice the apples, then arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer the slices to a freezer-safe bag or container to maintain their flavor and texture.
Explore other crops
Bok Choy
A crisp, leafy green with a mild, peppery flavor, bok choy is a staple in stir-fries, soups, and salads.
Mushrooms
Grown in controlled environments, California mushrooms add rich umami flavor to soups, sauces, and sautés.
Japanese Eggplant
With its glossy skin and creamy texture, eggplant is a versatile vegetable perfect for roasting, grilling, and stir-frying.
Leeks
Leeks are a mild, onion-like vegetable with a subtle sweetness and a tender texture, commonly used in soups, stews, and sautés.