Michigan apples

BelleHarvest acquires Valley View, expands apple offerings

The acquisition provides BelleHarvest with a greater ability to expand its varietal mix and enhance overall quality, according to a news release. “With the increased volume and quality, we can better serve our existing and... more »

Michigan Apple Committee funds 10 research projects

The Michigan Apple Committee (MAC) board has approved almost $240,000 in funding for 2023 industry research projects. The 10 projects were approved at the March board meeting. Research funding is a part of MAC’s mission... more »

Honeybear Brands to market Elite Apple’s fruit

Elite Apple Co., Sparta, Michigan, will be joining forces with Honeybear Brands to market its apple varieties. Elite Apple Co. is a privately-held, grower-owned production facility. For more than 40 years, the family of growers that... more »

EXPO bus tour: Beyond the cookies and cider

The weather was cooperative, the doughnuts and cookies were fresh and amazing, and the cider was hard and delicious. The Great Lakes EXPO Farm Market Bus Tour featured six stops in the Grand Rapids area... more »

Michigan apple growers to decide future of program

Michigan apple growers will be voting in February on whether to continue the Michigan Apple Advertising and Promotion Program, supported by grower assessments. The ballots will also include changes to the program, including allowing the... more »

Michigan State Horticultural Society lauds Thome, Shane

The Michigan State Horticultural Society has chosen a fifth-generation apple grower and a Michigan State University (MSU) senior Extension tree fruit specialist for its annual award recipients. Steve Thome, who operates Thome Orchards near Comstock... more »

Sylvia Freeland crowned Michigan Apple Queen

Sylvia Freeland of Kent City, Mich. has been crowned the 2023 Michigan Apple Queen. Freeland is the daughter of Kirk and Billie Freeland, and is a student at Kent City High School. She is the... more »

Michigan Apple Committee wins specialty crop promotional grants

The Michigan Apple Committee (MAC) has received grants to help that state’s apple growers improve marketing to shoppers and grocery retailers. The 2022 USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBG) grants provide MAC $200,000 dedicated... more »