As October unfolds, it’s not just pumpkin patches taking center stage—the Pacific Northwest is also deep into one of its busiest times of the year: harvest season for apples and pears! This region is famous for producing some of the world’s best fruit, and at ThirdLeaf NW, we’re proud to deliver these fresh flavors straight to your breakrooms. But what’s the story behind all these delicious apples and pears? Let’s dive into harvest season, the varieties we deliver, and how you can enjoy these fruits year-round!
When Does Harvest Season Begin and End?
In the Pacific Northwest, apple and pear harvest season kicks off in late summer, usually around August. Pears, like the Bartlett and Comice varieties we get from Duckwall Fruit, are among the first to be harvested. Apples follow soon after, with early-ripening varieties like Rave apples, sourced from Stemilt, among the first to hit the market.
The harvest typically continues through the fall, wrapping up by the end of October. Some apple varieties, like Fuji and Pink Lady, are harvested later in the season, as they need a little more time on the trees to develop their flavor and sweetness.
What Apples Are Picked First?
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Early-season apples, like Rave apples, are the first harvested in late summer. Known for their refreshing, sweet-tart flavor, Rave apples are perfect for snacking and arrive at the peak of freshness from Stemilt.
As we move into September and October, more familiar favorites like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, and Fuji start to fill up crates in Washington’s orchards, many of which come from partners like the Washington Apple Commission.
How Do We Enjoy Apples Year-Round?
Ever wondered how you can enjoy fresh, crisp apples even in the middle of winter? It’s all thanks to a process called Controlled Atmosphere (CA) Storage. After apples are harvested, they are placed in airtight rooms where the oxygen levels are carefully reduced and the temperature is lowered. This slows down the ripening process, keeping apples fresh for months without sacrificing their flavor or texture.
According to NPR, CA storage allows apples to be stored for up to 10 months, meaning we can deliver fresh, crunchy apples to your breakroom all year long, not just during the harvest season. This technology is a game-changer in the fruit industry, ensuring that you get top-quality produce long after the last apple has been picked!
Pears: The Sweet Start to Fall
Let’s not forget the pears! Pear harvest starts early, with Bartlett pears leading the charge. These pears, along with the smooth and sweet Comice pears, come to us from Duckwall Fruit, a renowned grower in Oregon. While Bartletts are great for snacking, Comice pears are often called “the dessert pear” for their delicate, creamy texture, making them perfect for adding a touch of sweetness to any dish.
Just like apples, pears can also be stored in controlled conditions to extend their availability beyond the traditional harvest window. However, pears typically require ripening after they’re brought out of storage, giving you a perfect, juicy pear every time!