The principal wild apple species that contribute to contemporary apple cultivars originated in Central Asia. These wild species were introduced to Europe and, later, the rest of the world as a result of Marco Polo’s voyages to the East and the founding of the silk routes.
Commercial apple production in South Africa is mostly concentrated in the Western Cape, with smaller plantings in the provinces of North West, Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, and Free State.
Apple trees thrive in temperate climates with chilly winters and hot, dry summers. They should not be planted in late-winter locations.
As with other fruit trees, the number of cold units for a certain region will influence a cultivar’s adaptability. Cold units are high for apples (900 to 1 200 or more). Inadequate cold units will cause delayed foliation, resulting in poor growth and insufficient yield.
In a business operation, trees grown in such conditions will be tough to manage.
Is apple grown in South Africa?
The Western Cape Province, which has a winter rainy season (May to July), accounts for over 80% of South Africa’s apple output. The winter rainfall from 2021 will be used for irrigation the following year, in 2022.
In South Africa, when do apples grow?
The Northern Provinces produce the first apples in South Africa, which are picked in December, and the season begins in earnest in late January and lasts until late May.
Why do apples thrive in the Western Cape?
To flower, the trees require a long period of low temperatures, ideally below 7°C, which means the climate of the Western Cape is best suited and where the majority of commercial apples are cultivated. However, there are thousands of apple types, each with its unique set of requirements.
Which countries export the most of South Africa’s apples?
In terms of variety, Fuji and Royal Gala/Gala have emerged as the most popular South African apple cultivars sent to China. As of Week 35, 8,605 tonnes of Fuji and 3,473 tonnes of Royal Gala have been exported, accounting for 92% of total exports.
What are the sweetest apples in South Africa?
Sweeter apples, such as Royal Gala and Fuji, are popular in South Africa and throughout Africa. Cripp’s Pink and Pink Lady®, Cripp’s Red, Joya®, and Kanzi are new apple cultivars.
How many different kinds of apples are there in South Africa?
Traditional apple types grown in South Africa for local consumption include Golden Delicious, Royal Gala, Braeburn, and Granny Smith.
