In Ontario, Cricklewood Farm, situated just outside Brighton, is engaging in the cultivation of both well-known and obscure apple varieties such as Crimson Crisp, Mollie's Delicious, Evangeline, Silken, alongside several unnamed breeds. This initiative is part of a broader effort among Ontario apple growers to test new varieties for their adaptability to the local climate and consumer appeal in terms of taste and texture. Brent Siwicky, alongside his wife Beth, operates a market and pick-your-own apple service on the farm, highlighting the diversity of their apple offerings, including experimental varieties like New Variety #26 and New Variety #31.
Nationally, the development of new apple varieties is aimed at meeting market demands, enhancing resistance to pests, and adapting to climate change, with support from both provincial and federal funding. As consumer preferences evolve, traditional varieties like Idareds and Red Delicious are seeing a decline in popularity, making room for new breeds such as the Snowflake, noted for its early harvest time, superior color, texture, and unique snowflake-like skin markings. This variety, alongside others in development, promises improved horticultural performance and eating experience, addressing common criticisms of older breeds for their lack of crispness or susceptibility to bruising.
The Honeycrisp variety, despite its cultivation challenges, continues to enjoy popularity in Ontario, ranking among top choices alongside Gala and McIntosh. Research efforts, such as those at the Vineland Research and Innovation Centre, focus on breeding for flavor, storage longevity, and disease resistance, with approximately 30,000 unique trees under evaluation. Collaborations with growers in Ontario, Quebec, and Nova Scotia are crucial for testing and selecting the most promising varieties.
Ontario's apple industry benefits from the region's favorable climate and soil conditions, supported by a growing demand for apples in food, juice, and the burgeoning cider market. The Ontario government recently announced a $23 million investment in horticulture research at Vineland station, underscoring the significance of the agri-food sector, which contributes $51 billion to the GDP and employs 871,000 people. The challenge remains in ensuring sufficient labor, with 29,000 workers coming to Ontario annually from around the world to support farm operations.
Source: Toronto Star