October Proclaimed Michigan Apple Month
LANSING, Mich. – Governor Gretchen Whitmer has proclaimed October to be Michigan Apple Month, recognizing the importance of the Michigan Apple industry.
Michigan is known for its diverse agriculture, which includes many specialty crops such as apples. Apples are the largest and most valuable fruit crop in the Great Lakes State. Growers dedicate their lives to the industry, operating 850 family-run farms with over 17.6 million apple trees, covering 38,000 acres in Michigan.
Michiganders have long enjoyed the tradition of the state’s flavorful apples. Consumers can find Michigan Apples at over 150 U-pick orchards and farm markets or in their favorite grocery store.
“Apples and apple products are a part of Michigan’s culture, as a fresh local product, a healthy snack choice and a quintessential fall activity,” said Diane Smith, executive director of the Michigan Apple Committee. “Whether we get them from orchards, farm markets, cider mills, or grocery stores, the flavor of this season is Michigan Apple.”
This year the crop has been harvested early, with most of harvest already complete. It’s the third year in a row of 30+ million bushels produced, with 2024’s crop estimated at 30.5 million bushels (1.28 billion lbs.). The average annual crop size for Michigan is approximately 25 million bushels.
“Michigan Apples are vital to the state’s agriculture industry and economy. Michigan Apple growers are dedicated to producing safe, quality fruit,” said Smith. “Our industry appreciates the recognition of the hard work and dedication of Michigan’s apple growers.”
Find new ways to celebrate Michigan Apple Month this year, including unique recipes, tips, flavor profiles, and information about orchards, cider mills and farm markets, by visiting MichiganApples.com.
The Michigan Apple Committee is a grower-funded nonprofit organization devoted to marketing, education and research activities to distinguish the Michigan apple and encourage its consumption in Michigan and around the world.