North Bay Produce's Ken Korson Gives an Apple Crop Overview

TRAVERSE CITY, MI - Michigan’s apple season is officially underway, and early reports point to a strong crop on par with last year. In a release from the company, North Bay Produce’s Ken Korson shares what retailers can expect as volume builds and key varieties hit the market:

The current volume resembles last year's successful crop, and new crop varieties are now becoming available.

The most remarkable feature of Michigan apples is their extraordinary flavor, which is attributed to the Great Lakes that surround our cultivation area. The Great Lakes region, with its pristine, clear freshwater and cool nighttime temperature, contributes to Michigan's ability to produce some of the best-tasting apples in the world.

Michigan apples are becoming a year-round commodity due to high-density plantings, updated lines, and technology that allows growers to pack quality apples daily.

A mid-winter and minimal spring and summer events have contributed to this year's good crop size and outstanding fruit.

For initial promotions, North Bay suggests focusing on Golas and Honeys. These two varieties are known for their early arrival, excellent availability, and consumer popularity. Although we grow 15 unique varieties, each with its own distinct qualities, Galas and Honeys stand out as ideal choices for early-season promotions. Highlighting these popular options sets up the produce department, creating an exciting feature display to kick off the Michigan apple season.