Michigan Apple Time Is Here!

In Michigan we are lucky to have four very different seasons.  Since I have always lived in areas where there are seasons, it is hard to imagine not having them.  It is fall now, harvest time, and that started me thinking about apples.  We love eating apples year round but right now apples are plentiful with lots of varieties to choose from.  Michigan is a big apple producing state with over 900 million pounds of apples grown here every year making us the 3rd largest producer of apples in the nation.  With over 16 different varieties of apples to choose from, you are sure to find one that you like.   This infographic shows the types available. Peak harvest time starts in August and goes into October.  Different varieties are ready at different times.  You can find apples everywhere this time of year, local grocery stores, farm markets, roadside stands, and of course you pick apple orchards.  

One of my favorite things this time of year is a glass of apple cider.  You will find lots of cider mills where you can get a fresh glass of cider along with lots of family fun.  In addition to picking apples, watching cider get made, and tasting that fresh glass; some offer activities such as hay rides, pumpkin picking, corn mazes, and petting zoos.  This all makes for a fun daytime outing for the family.   Here is one blogger’s list of the Top 29 Cider Mills in Michigan but you can probably find one close to you.

Apples are an important part of a healthy diet. They are loaded antioxidants, and filled with fiber while being low in sodium and calories.  Eating apples can also help you reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and cancer. While it is always tasty to just bite into a big juicy apple, the other wonderful thing is all of the recipes you can find to use apples in.  Michigan Apples offers lots of ideas to use them in main dishes, side dishes and desserts.  You will find their ideas here.

Hope you have enjoyed this information on Michigan Apples, go out and find your favorite variety today.

Until next time…
Linda

For More Information on apples grown in Michigan, visit their web site:  Michigan Apples