Tis fall and a time for apples - apple pie, apple crisp and an apple for a snack!
And there's nothing like a local apple.
One of my favorite places to purchase apples is from Rivers Bend Orchards in Fergus Falls. They pick the apples and have them bagged for customers. You simply drive to the orchard, pick up however many bags you w
ant, complete the transaction and there you go! Friendly, informative and great apples!
This year was a challenge for all growers. Very dry! And very hot! Nate and Sarah Jensen, the owners of Rivers Bend Orchard, installed drip irrigation when they began planting the trees in 2018. They have continued to plant trees, nurture and prune their orchard and harvest the fruit.
Joining them in the venture are their five children. The orchard is a great way for them to learn how to grow an orchard and maintain it and also the business of sales.
And they do it as a family. How special that is.
Rivers Bend Orchards has closed for the season. They have bags of apples for sale over several weekends in August and September. To connect with their operation, check out Rivers Bend Orchad on Facebook.
Another place to get apples is R&D Gardens at the Fergus Falls Farmers Market. They do not spray their trees. I purchased some Haralson's from them and froze what I didn't use.
To learn more about picking, storing and freezing apples, check out the free guide at thelocalgrowers.gumroad.com/l/wuvmkd.
While apples are great in pies and crisps, they also have a savory side. I never think to cut up an apple to be part of a salad, but when I eat an apple enhanced salad, I am always struck by the taste and texture in a very positive way. It add that bit of crunch and a little sweetness that is pleasing to the palette.
As I researched info for the apple guide, I learned so many ways to use apples and look forward to using it when entertaining friends like slicing an apple horizontally and making apple sandwiches with two of the rings and some cream cheese or peanut butter. Or making a spread of apple slices, cheese and different toppings and dips.
I've learned how truly versatile it really is, as well as being great in a pie or crisp.
Learn more about the Jensen's and their orchard at thelocalgrowers.com or check out the free guide at the link above on gumroad.