Apples-Garden To Pantry
By Nancy Hartwick UCCE Master Gardener, Master Food Preserver (MFP) SLO County
Author: Linda McClure, Certified MFP & Christine Nelson, MFP Program Coordinator
Edited by: Katherine E. Soule, Ph.D., Youth, Families, & Communities Advisor
UCCE in San Luis Obispo County
Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, Jonathan, Red Delicious, and Rome Beauty are some of the many types that can be grown in the Central Coast climate. For good fruit set, it may be necessary to have more than one tree and to plant more than one variety to encourage cross pollination. Some varieties, such as Golden Delicious, can be self-pollinating, but many are not. Select varieties with overlapping blooming periods to encourage pollination.
Apples must be grown in full sun, preferably a south facing site, for best fruit set. Avoid sites with temperature extremes which is the most difficult condition for fruit trees to endure. Fruit trees acclimated to temperate zones are typically purchased and planted as bare root trees. Mound planting is helpful in reducing root rot and promoting growth; do not plant in a basin. Plant above the original soil line and keep the crown dry. Head the tree at 20 to 24 inches to encourage low branching and balance growth.
For further information on pruning and caring for your apple trees, visit http://homeorchard.ucanr.edu/
When it comes to food preservation, apples are a super star. You can do so many things with them, and they stand up to it all so well! Dehydrating, canning, freezing, pickling - you name it, they can take it. Preserving apples during peak harvest will add variety to your menus throughout the year!
Join the UCCE Master Food Preserver (MFP) of SLO County's 4th Saturday Class, “All About Apples,” on Saturday, September 26th from 10:00am to 12:00pm at the UCCE Auditorium, 2156 Sierra Way, SLO. You will learn how to make apple pie filling for a tasty fall treat, as well as acquire new skills for making delicious dried apple rings and applesauce! Please register online (http://ucanr.edu/allaboutapples) or call the local MFP Helpline, 805-781-1429. Let's welcome autumn by preserving one of its delicious fruits, apples, so we can enjoy the flavor of fall year-round!