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Apple

Scientific Name: Malus domestica

Description​

The apple is a pomaceous fruit cultivated worldwide and belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is typically round, ranging from green to red to yellow, and has a sweet to tart flavor depending on the variety.

Where it Grows​

  • United States
  • China
  • India
  • Turkey
  • Russia
  • France

Planting​

When​

  • Spring (after the last frost)
  • Fall (before the first hard frost)

How​

  1. Choose a well-drained site with full sun.
  2. Prepare a hole twice the size of the root ball.
  3. Place the tree in the hole, ensuring the graft union is above soil level.
  4. Backfill with soil and compact gently.
  5. Water thoroughly.

Care​

Watering​

  • Water deeply weekly during dry spells.
  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Thinning​

  • Thin young fruits when they are around the size of a marble to promote better size and quality.

Weeding​

  • Regularly clear weeds to reduce competition for nutrients and water.

Mulching​

  • Apply a 3-4 inch layer of organic mulch to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.

Fertilizing​

  • Use a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
  • An annual application of compost is also beneficial.

Pest Management​

  • Monitor for common pests such as aphids and codling moths.
  • Use organic pesticides or traps as needed.

Harvesting​

  • Harvest apples when they are fully colored and slightly firm.
  • Gently twist off fruit from the tree to avoid damage.

Common Problems​

  • Apple Scab
  • Fire Blight
  • Cedar Apple Rust
  • Powdery Mildew

Nutrition​

Nutritional Benefits​

  • Low in calories
  • High in dietary fiber
  • Rich in antioxidants

Nutritional Composition (per 100g)​

NutrientAmount
Calories52 kcal
Carbohydrates14 g
Fiber2.4 g
Sugars10 g
Protein0.3 g
Vitamin C4.6 mg (8% DV)
Potassium107 mg (3% DV)

Varieties of Apple​

  • Red Delicious
  • Granny Smith
  • Fuji
  • Gala
  • Honeycrisp
  • Braeburn

Health Benefits​

  • May help improve heart health.
  • Can aid in weight management.
  • Promotes gut health due to high fiber content.
  • Linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases.

Fun Facts​

  • Apples float in water because 25% of their volume is air.
  • There are over 7,500 varieties of apples grown worldwide.
  • The science of apple cultivation and breeding is known as pomology.