The apple was brought to the United States by the Pilgrims in 1620. While the Native Americans taught the early settlers how to grow corn and vegetables, the settler taught the Native Americans how to grow apples with apple tree seeds, seedlings, and small trees. They used apples to make apple juice, apple cider, dried apples, apple butter and vinegar. The apples were even food for the pigs, cows, and horses.
Thirty-six states, including Illinois, grow apples. There are 20,000 apple growers that use about a half-a million of our acres to produce apples. The growers produce an average of 260 million bushels per year. Most commercial apples are grown in northern states such as Washington, Michigan, and New York.
For more Apple Activities, check out the Apple Kit from Rock Island AITC!
Lessons: Apple Resources available from Rock Island County Ag in the Classroom