SOUTH East apple lovers can expect to see varieties of their favourite fruit in the coming weeks with the picking season officially under way.
Similar to wine grapes, apples ripen around the autumn months with the popular royal gala among the first to be harvested.
A major Limestone Coast producer has reported a positive growing season for the fruit, although a small heatwave during January and mildew caused some disruption to the process.
Kalangadoo Organic business owner Chris McColl said the minor setbacks would not impact on the availability of the fruit.
“Apples thrive in cooler climates, so we know growing in our region comes with the added issue of heat,” he said.
“Some apples got a little bit sunburnt during the hotter days, when the mercury reaches more than 30 to 35 degrees we know the apples might struggle a little bit, but it’s something we prepare for.
“We are still happy with how the season has progressed and are enjoying getting the picking under way.”
The South East grown apples will soon start to hit shelves at independent grocers around the region in addition to being available at the Mount Gambier Farmer’s Market each Saturday.
The Kalangadoo Organic orchard is one the region’s local growers with a focus on fresh produce straight from the farmgate to the plate.
The family business, owned and operated by Chris and wife Michelle, started almost 20 years ago, although the pair both had year of experience in agricultural science and the horticulture industry before starting the enterprise.
In the early stages, the McColls planted pairs of around 90 different apple trees before selecting around 30 of the most delicious for sale and use in their organic products.
With a number of varieties in the orchard, consumers have access to fresh apples for a number of months, which Ms McColl believes is a point of difference for the brand.
“The variety of apples means we are able to bring fresh fruit to the public from the end of January right into early June,” he said.
“We pride ourselves on the ability to give people fresh, organic and delicious tasting fruit and the reality of this is that our apples are not available year-round.
“The over availability of apples throughout the year means people are not getting the best quality out there – when you’re not getting top quality, you’re not getting top taste.
“We want everyone to enjoy fresh, crisp apples, not apples kept in cold storage over three, six or nine months – these apples have a tendency to be more powdery and less flavourful.
“Parents encourage their children to eat apples, but who wants to eat an apple that does not taste great?”
With this in mind, the McColls also grow stone fruit which ripens during the summer months.
“Apples are meant to be enjoyed during autumn, just like stone fruit is for the summer,” Mr McColl said.
“We’re even growing kiwi vines that ripen after winter, it’s all part of a commitment to providing great tasting fruit throughout the year.”
