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Wisconsin is known for its apple orchards, and for good reason. With over 200 varieties of apples grown in the state, there is no shortage of options for apple lovers. From the crisp and juicy Honeycrisp to the tart and tangy Granny Smith, the best Wisconsin apple orchards offer a wide range of flavors to satisfy any palate.
Visiting apple orchards is a popular fall activity for families and friends. Many orchards offer pick-your-own options, allowing visitors to experience the joy of harvesting their own apples straight from the tree. In addition to apple picking, many orchards also offer hayrides, corn mazes, and other fun activities for visitors of all ages.
Key Takeaways
- Wisconsin is home to over 200 varieties of apples, making it a top destination for apple lovers.
- Visiting apple orchards is a popular fall activity for families and friends, with many orchards offering pick-your-own options and other fun activities.
- In addition to being delicious, apples offer a variety of health benefits and are grown using sustainable practices in many Wisconsin orchards.
History of Apple Orchards in Wisconsin
Wisconsin has a long and rich history of apple orchards, dating back to the early 1900s when the Wisconsin Horticultural Society planted trial orchards around the state. The orchards that thrived developed unique characteristics from the local soils and microclimates, creating distinct apple terroir.
Today, Wisconsin has a thriving apple industry, with over 200 commercial apple orchards producing over 60 million pounds of apples each year. The state’s apple production is diverse, with over 30 different apple varieties grown, from the classic Red Delicious to the unique Honeycrisp.
The state’s apple industry has faced challenges over the years, including disease outbreaks and weather-related issues, but has persevered thanks to the dedication of Wisconsin’s apple growers. The state’s apple growers have also embraced new technologies and techniques to improve their orchards’ productivity and sustainability.
Overall, Wisconsin’s apple industry has a rich history and a bright future, with its apple orchards continuing to produce high-quality apples for generations to come.
Top Rated Wisconsin Apple Orchards
If you are looking for the best apple orchards in Wisconsin, you have come to the right place. Here are the top-rated Wisconsin apple orchards that offer a great apple picking experience and fresh, delicious apples.
Door Creek Orchard
Location: 3252 Vilas Road Cottage Grove
Located in Cottage Grove, Door Creek Orchard is a family-owned and operated orchard that offers a wide variety of apples, including Honeycrisp, McIntosh, and Cortland. They also have a pumpkin patch, hayrides, and a corn maze.
Brightonwoods Orchard
Location: 1072 288th Avenue Burlington
Brightonwoods Orchard is a family-run fruit orchard located in Southeastern Wisconsin. Though they don’t offer U-pick apples, they do have more than 200 apple varieties available throughout the growing season. They also have a bakery that offers delicious apple pies, turnovers, and cider donuts.
Eplegaarden
Location: 2227 Fitchburg Road Fitchburg
Eplegaarden is a Norwegian-style apple orchard located in Fitchburg, Wisconsin. They offer a variety of apples, including Honeycrisp, Haralson, and Zestar. They also have a store that sells homemade apple cider, apple butter, and apple sauce.
Apple Holler
Location: 5006 South Sylvania Ave Sturtevant
Apple Holler is a family farm located in Sturtevant, Wisconsin. They offer a wide variety of apples, including Honeycrisp, Gala, and McIntosh. They also have a restaurant that serves apple-inspired dishes, such as apple pancakes and apple bratwurst. You can enjoy a hayride or a walk through the orchard while you are there.
Wood Orchard
Location: 8112 Hwy 42 Egg Harbor
Wood Orchard is a family-owned and operated orchard located in Egg Harbor, Wisconsin. They offer a wide variety of apples, including Honeycrisp, Gala, and Cortland. They also have a market that sells homemade jams, jellies, and apple butter. You can enjoy a hayride or a walk through the orchard while you are there.
These are just a few of the top-rated Wisconsin apple orchards. Each orchard offers a unique experience, so be sure to visit them all and find your favorite.
Seasonal Information for Apple Picking
Spring
Spring is not the best time to go apple picking in Wisconsin. Most apple orchards are closed during this season as the trees are still in the process of blooming and producing fruit. However, some orchards may offer pre-season events or activities such as blossom tours or cider tastings.
Summer
Summer is also not the peak apple picking season in Wisconsin. Most orchards are still closed during this time as the apples are not yet ripe for picking. However, some orchards may offer early season events or activities such as apple festivals or live music.
Fall
Fall is the prime apple picking season in Wisconsin. The season typically starts in mid-August and runs until the end of October. However, this can vary from year to year, so it’s best to plan your trip in September and October to ensure the best apple picking experience. During this season, most orchards offer a variety of apple types for picking, including Honeycrisp, Cortland, and McIntosh.
It’s important to note that apple picking in Wisconsin is a popular activity during the fall season, so it’s best to arrive early in the day to avoid crowds. Additionally, some orchards may require reservations for apple picking, so it’s best to check ahead of time.
Winter
Winter is not a season for apple picking in Wisconsin. Most orchards are closed during this time as the trees are dormant and the apples have already been harvested. However, some orchards may offer winter events or activities such as holiday markets or sleigh rides.
Types of Apples Grown in Wisconsin
The best Wisconsin apple orchards are known for its delicious apples and has a variety of apple orchards that grow different types of apples. Some of the most popular types of apples grown in Wisconsin are:
Honeycrisp
Honeycrisp apples are one of the most popular types of apples grown in Wisconsin. They are a cross between the Macoun and Honeygold apples and are known for their sweet and juicy flavor. Honeycrisp apples are great for eating fresh, baking, and making apple cider.
McIntosh
McIntosh apples are another popular type of apple grown in Wisconsin. They are known for their juicy and tangy flavor and are great for eating fresh, baking, and making applesauce. McIntosh apples are also commonly used in pies and other baked goods.
Cortland
Cortland apples are a popular type of apple grown in Wisconsin that are known for their sweet and slightly tart flavor. They are great for eating fresh, baking, and making applesauce. Cortland apples are also commonly used in salads and other dishes.
Empire
Empire apples are a cross between the McIntosh and Red Delicious apples and are known for their sweet and tart flavor. They are great for eating fresh, baking, and making apple cider. Empire apples are also commonly used in pies and other baked goods.
Jonathan
Jonathan apples are a popular type of apple grown in Wisconsin that are known for their sweet and slightly tart flavor. They are great for eating fresh, baking, and making applesauce. Jonathan apples are also commonly used in salads and other dishes.
In addition to these popular types of apples, there are many other varieties grown in Wisconsin, including Braeburn, Gala, Granny Smith, and Rome apples. Each type of apple has its own unique flavor and texture, making Wisconsin apple orchards a must-visit destination for apple lovers.
Health Benefits of Apples
Apples are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that are beneficial to our health. Here are some of the health benefits of apples:
High in Fiber
Apples are a great source of dietary fiber, which helps promote good digestion and prevent constipation. A medium-sized apple contains about 4 grams of fiber, which is about 16% of the recommended daily intake.
Rich in Antioxidants
Apples are also rich in antioxidants, which help protect our cells from damage caused by free radicals. These antioxidants include flavonoids and polyphenols, which are found mainly in the skin of the apple.
May Help Lower Cholesterol
Apples contain a type of soluble fiber called pectin, which has been shown to help lower cholesterol levels. Pectin works by binding to cholesterol in the gut and preventing it from being absorbed into the bloodstream.
May Help Manage Blood Sugar
Apples have a low glycemic index, which means they don’t cause a sharp rise in blood sugar levels. This makes them a good snack option for people with diabetes or those trying to manage their blood sugar levels.
May Help Boost Immunity
Apples are a good source of vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system. Vitamin C helps protect our cells from damage, promotes wound healing, and helps the body absorb iron.
Overall, incorporating apples into your diet can provide a variety of health benefits. So, next time you visit a Wisconsin apple orchard, make sure to grab some apples and enjoy their delicious taste and nutritional benefits.
Sustainable Practices in Wisconsin Apple Orchards
The best Wisconsin apple orchards are known for their sustainable practices, which prioritize environmental stewardship and the well-being of the local community. Here are a few examples of sustainable practices that Wisconsin apple orchards use:
- Integrated pest management (IPM): Many Wisconsin apple orchards use IPM, which is a holistic approach to pest management that minimizes the use of pesticides. IPM involves monitoring pests, using natural predators to control pests, and only using pesticides when necessary. This approach helps to reduce the environmental impact of pesticide use and protect the health of workers and consumers.
- Cover crops: Some Wisconsin apple orchards plant cover crops between rows of apple trees. Cover crops help to prevent erosion, improve soil health, and provide habitat for beneficial insects. Examples of cover crops used in Wisconsin apple orchards include clover, rye, and vetch.
- Composting: Many Wisconsin apple orchards compost apple waste, such as apple cores and peels. Composting helps to reduce waste, improve soil health, and provide a source of organic matter for the orchard.
- Energy efficiency: Some Wisconsin apple orchards use energy-efficient practices, such as using solar panels to generate electricity or installing energy-efficient lighting and equipment. These practices help to reduce the orchard’s carbon footprint and save money on energy costs.
- Community involvement: Many Wisconsin apple orchards are involved in their local communities, hosting events and donating apples to local food banks and schools. This involvement helps to build strong relationships between the orchard and the community, and supports local food systems.
Overall, sustainable practices are an important part of Wisconsin apple orchards, helping to protect the environment, support local communities, and produce high-quality apples.
How to Choose the Best Apples
When it comes to apple picking, choosing the right apples is essential for a successful and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips to help you choose the best apples:
1. Look for Apples with a Smooth Skin
Apples with smooth skin are usually fresher and have not been sitting on the ground for too long. Avoid apples with bruises, cuts, or blemishes, as they may be overripe or damaged.
2. Check for Firmness
Firm apples are usually the best for eating and cooking. To check for firmness, gently press the apple with your thumb. If it feels too soft, it may be overripe. If it feels too hard, it may not be ripe enough.
3. Consider the Flavor
Different apple varieties have different flavors and are suited for different purposes. For example, if you want to make apple pies, choose apples that are sweet and tart, such as Honeycrisp and Braeburn. If you want to eat apples raw, choose apples that are sweet and juicy, such as Gala and Fuji.
4. Choose the Right Color
The color of the apple can also indicate its ripeness and flavor. Red apples are usually sweeter, while green apples are usually tart. However, this can vary depending on the variety of apple.
5. Ask the Farmer
If you’re not sure which apples to choose, ask the farmer or staff at the orchard for recommendations. They can provide valuable advice on which apples are best for eating, baking, or cooking.
By following these tips, you can ensure that you choose the best apples for your needs and have a great apple picking experience in Wisconsin.
Final Thoughts
Wisconsin is home to some of the best apple orchards in the country. Whether you’re looking for a fun family outing or just want to pick some fresh apples, there are plenty of options to choose from. From Door Creek Orchard to Rasmussen’s Apple Acres, each orchard has its unique charm and offers a different experience.
When planning your trip to a Wisconsin apple orchard, be sure to check the orchard’s website or social media pages for up-to-date information on hours, activities, and apple availability. While most orchards offer U-pick options, some may only have pre-picked apples available for purchase.
Additionally, it’s essential to dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll likely be doing some walking around the orchard. Don’t forget to bring a bag or basket to carry your apples and some cash or a credit card to purchase your apples and any other goodies the orchard may offer.
Overall, visiting a Wisconsin apple orchard is a fantastic way to enjoy the fall season and support local farmers. So grab your family and friends and head out to one of these fantastic orchards for a day of apple picking, apple cider, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Wisconsin Apple Orchards
What is the best month to visit an apple orchard?
The best month to visit an apple orchard largely depends on the location and climate. In Wisconsin, apple season typically runs from mid-August to late October, so the best time to visit would be during this period.
What is the oldest apple orchard in Wisconsin?
The oldest apple orchard in Wisconsin is likely Brightonwoods Orchards, which has been in operation since the 1800s. Other long-standing orchards in the state include Door Creek Orchard and Hillside Apples.
When should you pick apples in Wisconsin?
The best time to pick apples in Wisconsin is typically in September or early October, when the fruit is at its peak ripeness. However, the exact timing may vary depending on the specific orchard and the weather conditions during the growing season.
Where can I find the best apple cider in Wisconsin?
Some of the best places to find apple cider in Wisconsin include Door Creek Orchard, Brightonwoods Orchards, and Hillside Apples. Many other orchards and cider mills throughout the state also offer high-quality cider.
Are there any apple orchards in Wisconsin that offer hayrides?
Yes, many apple orchards in Wisconsin offer hayrides as part of their fall festivities. Some popular options include Apple Holler, Brightonwoods Orchards, and Hillside Apples.
