Apple Variety Trends in Michigan

Abstract

Michigan’s apple acreage has increased over the past decade and the trend is expected to continue. Tree numbers have increased 24% in recent years reflecting the move to higher density planting systems on size controlling rootstocks. About 98% of all young plantings, 6-years-old or younger, are on size controlling stocks. The average yield of apples per acre has steadily increased in Michigan. Total production for the state may reach 30 million bushels in the early 1990’s, a 20% increase above the peak 25 million bushels produced in 1985 and 1987.

‘Delicious’ is the dominant cultivar grown in Michigan with almost twice as many acres planted as the second leading variety ‘Jonathan.’ A significant number of new trees being planted are ‘Empire’ followed by ‘Rome’ and ‘Idared.’ Current trends indicate a decrease in the production of ‘Jonathan’ and ‘Winesap,’ two cultivars that represent a significant acreage of all trees 22-years-old and older. The prospects for large plantings of the newer cultivars such as ‘Fuji,’ tala,’ and ‘Jonagold’ are uncertain at this time.