Fowler Bros. says apple crop is excellent this season
Fowler Bros. says apple crop is excellent this season
Current apple holdings at Fowler Bros. Inc., in Wolcott, NY, are excellent this season, according to Lee Peters, vice president of sales and marketing. And quality is assured through the use of proper controlled atmosphere storage protocols and the latest available technology.
“Putting apples to sleep has been done for many years,” explained Peters. “Making sure they are resting comfortably is an art unto itself. Continuous investment in storage technology is one of the main reasons that apple sales continue strong after the fall selling season.”
Fowler Farms’ roots date back several generations. John and Bob Fowler are fifth-generation growers. While the original homestead still remains in productions, the operation has grown to manage more than 2,500 acres of fruit, with a primary emphasis on apple production.
The club variety, “SweeTango” is one of Fowler Farms’ newest apple varieties. Peters said that it, among other new and rising varieties are all growing in sales today.
“Besides the ‘SweeTango,’ Honeycrisp, ‘SnapDragon’ and ‘RubyFrost’ are all growing in sales,” he noted. “Produce merchandisers are on the lookout for new and different apple varieties to help them grow sales. At the same time, we are enjoying new interest in our heirloom McIntosh apples in a two-pound pouch bag. It is bringing the McIntosh to the forefront again as we communicate the heirloom story to consumers.”
The business of growing at Fowler Farms encompasses more than just trees. As a several time winner of the New York State Grand Champion packing award from the New York Department of Agriculture, Fowler Farms has learned that its employees are what make it possible for the operation to continue to grow and improve.
“Apple demand this year has been excellent,” added Peters. “We are seeing the impact of added sales due to demand for large sizes. Our holdings include a good mix of sizes.”
