Taste, learn, explore at apple open house

AMES — Taste the first fruits of Iowa State University's new apple crop at an open house Sept. 13, from noon to 2 p.m., at the ISU Horticulture Research Station.

Growers and interested community members will have the opportunity to sample 10 apple cultivars not commonly found in grocery stores, enjoy fresh, local cider and fall doughnuts, as well as observe current apple research being done by Suzanne Slack, assistant professor and extension fruit crops specialist, and graduate students in the horticulture department.

The open house will highlight many different cultivars available for purchase at local orchards, along with upcoming and heritage cultivars not yet released to the public. The event will feature informal orchard tours, a chance to ask questions and doughnuts and Iowa-grown cider.

“Participants will get to try new types of apples that are uncommon at the grocery store but can be purchased from local orchards in Iowa this fall,” Slack said.

This event is available at no cost to those who wish to participate. While walk-ins are welcome, organizers ask that participants register online to adequately prepare apples.

The ISU Horticulture Research Station is located northeast of Ames at 55519 170th Street, Ames.