There are 35 apple-producing states in the US, so no matter where you live there’s a fairly good chance someone’s growing apples close to home. The major producers can be found in Washington, Upper New York, Michigan, and California. If I went through all the varieties of apples on the market today, I would be writing a dictionary. So I’ll simply point out that all the apples you’ll find right now are fresh new crop, so the time is ripe to treat yourself to a type you haven't had before.

The prevalence of apple trees across our nation is no accident. During the period of Westward Expansion in the early 1800’s, American law actually required settlers to plant at least fifty apple trees their first year to ensure stability. One particular man—a fellow named John Chapman—was especially zealous in the cultivation of this wholesome American crop. Born on September 26, 1774 in Leominster Massachusetts, John was the son of a Minuteman who fought in the Revolutionary War. In 1797, like many young men of his day, John began his westward journey. As he traveled, he planted orchards for the settlers with seeds that he purchased from cider mills back in Pennsylvania. He also sold and gave away trees to traveling pioneers.