We are focused on getting a beautiful and delicious crop of organic apples and pears. There are many ways to do this, and we use any assistance the ecosystem will give us. We encourage insectivorous birds and bats to live near the orchard. A lot of energy has gone into restoring our oak savanna and other non-crop areas. By seeding native plant species and using controlled burns, we are starting to see a greater diversity of species and more flowering plants which creates habitat for beneficial and pollinator insects.

Good horticultural practices are so important when growing organic fruit. Apple trees need to have an open and airy canopy, and fruit needs to be exposed to air and light. We do this by growing trees on dwarf rootstocks which keeps trees small. Pruning in the winter and summer maintains a good tree structure and balance of vegetative and fruiting growth. Sanitation is important though out the year.

We practice high level Integrated Pest Management for insects and diseases. This means we monitor weather very closely and use biological models, insect traps and observation to know the life stage of insects or diseases. Organic fruit is not “no spray.’ Organically approved materials are used when needed. More importantly, we apply compost tea, fish and fermented plant extracts that greatly improve tree health and help to grow the best tasting apples you have ever eaten.