As we wrap up Fair Season in North Carolina I am taking stock of all of the wonderful local fruits and vegetables I have seen on display as well as products made from them, including apples! 

Apples are in season now in North Carolina and I am proud to say that our state is among the top 10 apple producers in the United States. North Carolina’s peak apple harvest runs between mid August through October with production taking place in four areas in the state around Henderson, Haywood, Wilkes and Cleveland counties. For information on where to find local apples and orchard experiences check out the Visit NC Farms App or Buy Haywood.

The health benefits of apples are undisputed and I would be remiss if I did not point out that apples are a great way to contribute to the recommended 3-5 servings of fruits and vegetables per day for adults. 1 small apple equals one serving of fruit. 

If you find yourself with an abundance of apples or yearning to preserve some of this year’s harvest, N.C. Cooperative Extension, Haywood County has information and resources to share on preserving apples as well as other fruits and vegetables. 

One of my favorite ways to preserve apples is dehydrating them. The National Center for Home Food Preservation is an awesome resource for information on dehydrating apples, making fruit leather, canning and freezing apples, making apple butter, jelly, preserves, relish, spiced rings and pie filling. The possibilities are endless so enjoy.

And now, back to Fair Season where residents have an opportunity to enter the very best of their harvest and handmade products for some good old-fashioned competition. The 2023 Haywood County Fair hosted a Double Crust Apple Pie Contest and it did not disappoint! Congratulations to the winners and thank you to all who participated.