Arbor Day Farm's Apple Harvest Arrives Early This Year

08/31/12
Nebraska City, Neb. (August 31, 2012) – Warm winter temperatures and a dry summer season yielded a slightly earlier-than-expected apple harvest at Arbor Day Farm this fall.

Arbor Day Farm will open its apple orchards for fall harvest tomorrow, Saturday, September 1, according to Orchard Manager Adam Howard. Apples are expected to be available through mid-October.

"The apple harvest is a time-honored tradition for Arbor Day Farm and Nebraska City," Howard said. "We look forward to welcoming Nebraskans and visitors from all over in carrying on that legacy."

Visitors may pick several classic varieties of apples fresh from the orchard, which can be accessed through regular hours and admission to the Tree Adventure, open Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm, Saturdays 9am to 6pm and Sunday from 10am to 6pm.

Rare and vintage apples from the Preservation Orchard can be purchased at the Apple House Market. All apples besides heirloom and honey crisp varieties are available in five-pound bags for $8, with $30 for a bushel.

Visitors will enjoy four varieties of caramel apples and can watch the cider press in action, with fresh-pressed apple cider available by the gallon.

Nebraska City's annual Applejack Festival is September 15 and 16, celebrating the area's abundant apple harvest. Community events include a parade, street dance, several craft shows, carnival rides and festival food. Activities at Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure include tree climbing, face painting, live music, nature crafts, wine tasting and Discovery Rides into the orchard.

Apple trees have thrived in the area since 1855, when J. Sterling Morton and his wife, Caroline, moved to Nebraska City from Michigan, and planted several varieties of apple trees on their homestead, the property now known as Arbor Day Farm.

About the Arbor Day Foundation: The Arbor Day Foundation is a nonprofit conservation and education organization of one million members, with the mission to inspire people to plant, nurture and celebrate trees. More information on the Foundation and its programs can be found at arborday.org, or by visiting us on Facebook, Twitter or our blog.