Crunch time for apples

Tasmania’s apple season is off to a slightly earlier start than usual thanks to warm and sunny conditions over summer.

Fruit Growers Tasmania said the season started earlier this year following the favourable warm and sunny summer conditions, which had enhanced the sweetness, size, and colour of the crop.

Royal Gala and Smitten were among the first to be harvested, with Golden Delicious, Modi, Pink Lady, Granny Smith, Jazz, Envy, Kanzi, Rubigold, Southern Bliss and Tiger Fuji all starting to come online as the season gets into full swing. 

Harvesting is expected to continue until May.

With a long, rich apple growing history, Tasmania has a reputation for growing beautifully fresh crisp apples that store particularly well.

FGT chief executive Peter Cornish said Tasmania had ideal growing conditions for apples. 

He said its cool climatic conditions, clean water, and rich, well-nurtured soils allowed apples to stay on the tree for longer. 

This meant the fruit develops slowly creating apples that are sweet, juicy and deliciously crisp to the bite.

“Tasmanians have been growing apples in commercial quantities for 170 years. This endeavour and commitment has been handed down within families across the generations, with some families still growing apples six generations on,” Mr Cornish said.

“We are lucky enough to have dedicated and resilient growers here that are continuing to adapt and innovate to ensure the apple industry in Tasmania continues to advance.”

Tasmanian growers are fortunate to work closely with industry organisations and local researchers to continually improve the sustainability of growing apples, with a focus on apple quality, soil health and variety development.

Rubigold and Tiger Fuji varieties are unique to Tasmania. 

Scott Brothers developed Tiger Fuji, while Rubigold was developed by BW Griggs & Sons.

Tasmania is also home to one of the largest organic apple producers in Australia, R&R Smith, who picked their first harvest of Southern Bliss in 2023, adding an organic option to Tasmania’s special varieties.

Some eight per cent of all apples sold in Australia are now grown organically, with demand growing at around 20 per cent per year.

As global apple markets have changed, the industry in Tasmania’s main focus is on the Australian domestic market. 

However, Tasmania maintains its market access to a number of markets particularly in Asia.

“Tasmania remains free from many plant-related pests and diseases meaning our produce can be exported with minimal, if any, phytosanitary treatment giving us a distinct advantage in some markets,” Mr Cornish said.

“This season’s Tasmanian apples are available at roadside stalls, farmers markets and independent retailers including IGA, Hill Street, Salamanca Fresh as well as in the major supermarkets.”

Mr Cornish said apples are so versatile that while they are great to include in a lunchbox, on a cheese platter or as part of a salad they are also delicious in a baked dessert or a stew.

“They are full of fibre, antioxidants and are rich in vitamin C. So, get out there and appreciate the abundance of crisp, juicy and sweet, new season Tasmanian apples,” he said.