Apples

Overview

North Georgia is the center of the state's apple industry. Unlike those from other states, Georgia apples are sold primarily for the fresh market. From late summer to early winter, Georgia's apple houses are bustling with business.

An apple's size, shape and color depend on the variety. Georgia's most popular varieties include Ozark Gold and Paulard, (July and August); Red Delicious and Golden Delicious (July through December); Rome Beauty and Mutzu Crispin (August through December); Empire, Jonagold and Jonathan (August through September); and Arkansas Black, Fuji, Granny Smith, Stayman Winesap and Yates (October through December).

When buying fresh Georgia apples look for fruit that is firm and bruise-free. Apples stay fresh for several months if stored at cool temperatures. Sort stored apples often, though, because one bad apple can spoil the whole barrel. To keep flavor longer, store apples in vented poly bags.

Publications

Extension Publications

• Home Garden Apples

To see other publications, go to the CAES Publications site or the FACS Publications listing.

News

For the latest news about Extension, visit Georgia FACES. News you can use about Georgia family, agricultural, consumer and enviromental sciences.

• Consumer, farmer opinions sought on FDA's proposed new food safety act
• Atlanta ice cream selected as 2012 Flavor of Georgia food contest overall winner
• Backyard fruit trees need fertile soil, sunny location
• Time to gather the apples
• Plant now to pick your own fruit at home later
• Drying is another option for storing fruits, vegetables

Websites

UGA-affiliated sites

• Apples are Peaking; Choose the Best Preservation Method
  Information regarding several methods of apple preservation.
• Impact Statements: Apples
  Descriptions of Extension efforts to improve knowledge and practices related to apples.
• North Georgia Apple Integrated Pest Management
  Resource for apple growers which provides trapping data, degree days, fire blight data, newsletters, a calendar, contact information, and related links.