Special to Dorchester Banner/Edwin Remsberg
Apples, apples, and more apples. Now is the time to enjoy Maryland apples at some of the “pick-your-own” orchards. See story on page 14.[/caption] Pick-your-own operations offer fresh produce and family fun ANNAPOLIS — Apple picking season is underway at many pick-your-own orchards, with plenty of late peaches, tomatoes and other crops available to pick as well. “Pick-your-own orchards provide a great opportunity for families to make memories while bringing home fresh, nutritious Maryland produce,” said Maryland Agriculture Secretary Joe Bartenfelder. “This is also a great way for Marylanders to learn more about where their food comes from.” Maryland is home to 171 apple orchards according to the latest USDA Agricultural Census, 2012. Many farms have roadside markets or pick-your-own operations, while others are wholesale producers who concentrate on selling apples through grocery stores and food distributors. For a list of direct-marketing orchards, visit the Maryland Apple Promotion Board website. You can also visit the Maryland Department of Agriculture’s marketing website, www.MarylandsBest.net, to locate a pick-your-own operation or farm stand near you. Consumers of all ages can benefit from an apple a day. Not just a delicious and healthy snack, apples are full of vitamin C, potassium, calcium, iron, vitamin A, phosphorus, thiamin and magnesium. Apples do not contain fat, sodium or cholesterol and with only 80 calories per apple, they fit in perfectly with a healthy lifestyle. For more information on local apples—including recipes and varieties available—visit www.MarylandApples.com.