Well, apple is one of most
commercially grown table and temperate fruit crop in the world after banana, orange
and grapes. China tops the apple fruit production in the world. Apple has
excellent health benefits, hence it is recommended for daily consumption.
Apples
were originated in Europe and Western Asia and spread across the world. Seed
grown apple trees are large in size when compared to rootstock (grafted onto
roots). Apple tree belongs to the family of "Rosaceae" and genus of
"Malus". There are more than 8000 varieties/cultivars of apple all
over the world. The apple is a deciduous tree which can grow
up to 15 to 16 feet tall. The wild apple trees can reach up to 40 feet.
However, the size and shape of the apple tree are determined by rootstock
selection and trimming (Pruning) method. Soil, climate and orchard management
practices are common factors that influence the commercial farming of apple
fruit. Apples can eaten raw or used as an important ingredient in many desserts
like apple pie, apple crumble, apple crisp and apple cake apart from using in
beverages (ciders and juices). Read more about apple orchard here.
