Michigan Apple Quickfacts

How can we mention fall without giving credit to Michigan’s largest agricultural commodity – apples! You’ll be reminded of the taste of autumn when you “Check into Michigan Apples” at one of nearly 250 Michigan lodging properties. In a promotion organized by the Michigan Apple Committee (MAC), each of the participating lodging properties will display a ¼-peck basket filled with Michigan apples and a rack full of Michigan Farm Market & U-Pick Directories to distribute to guests.

Here are a few Michigan Apple Quickfacts, courtesy of the Michigan Apple Committee:

• Apples are Michigan’s largest and most valuable fruit crop, with a “farm gate” value to the growers of about $100 million annually.
• Value-added marketing and processing efforts are estimated to enhance the annual economic contribution of Michigan Apples from $700-$900 million.
• There are over 7.5 million apple trees in commercial production, covering 37,500 acres on 950 family-operated farms throughout Michigan’s Lower Peninsula.
• On average, Michigan harvests about 20 million bushels (800 million pounds) of apples per year. This year’s crop projection is at 26 million bushels, one of the largest in recent history.
• Small family farmers who operate their own orchards dominate the Michigan apple industry. According to statistics, 65 percent of Michigan orchards had fewer than 200 acres in apples.
• Newer apple orchards are trending toward high-density planting, upwards of 500 trees per acre. Well-trained, high-density plantings come into production much more rapidly than “standard” apple trees of old, so growers can bring desirable new varieties to market more quickly. They also reflect a realization that Michigan is growing apples rather than trees.
• Michigan plays a vital role in processed apples. About 60 percent of all Michigan apples are processed into another product. Michigan is the largest supplier of apple slices used in commercially prepared apple pies. Michigan apples are also a main source for applesauce, fresh-cut slices, and fresh and shelf-stable apple cider.
• Longtime favorite varieties still dominate Michigan’s orchards. The most prevalent variety remains the Red Delicious, followed closely by the Golden Delicious. The Gala is rapidly gaining on tradition, however.
• The Honeycrisp variety continues to grow in popularity. Look for it in September and October, and enjoy it while you can, as it will most likely be gone by year end! A growing number of Honeycrisp tree plantings still aren’t keeping pace with its popularity among consumers! Honeycrisp has a crisp, juicy bite and a sweet flavor. They are best for fresh eating and also a great addition to salads!