KAUKAUNA, Wis. (WFRV) – As summer ends and fall begins, there’s a specific topic that comes to mind for many: apple picking.
With the crisp days of September rolling in, local orchards across the region prepare for the start of apple-picking season — a tradition that draws friends, families and food lovers into the fields each fall. A process not always thought about is the method of sustainability to keep the industry thriving for seasons to come.
Sustainably Speaking: Invasive Japanese Stiltgrass Reaches Wisconsin
Warm spring days and summer rain have produced a healthy crop. Many varieties, including favorites such as Honeycrisp, Gala and McIntosh, are soon to be ripe for picking. But before that, orchard owners must work around challenges that can affect crop growth. Changing weather patterns, insect management and shifting consumer expectations can all play a role in a successful fall.
To meet demands, farm owners have begun adopting eco-friendly strategies such as planting cover crops to reduce erosion, drip irrigation systems and integrated pest management, which relies more on natural predators.
During growth months, insects such as codling moths, aphids and apple maggots can damage fruit and reduce yields. As the fall harvest arrives, it’s a priority to manage not only harmful insects but also beneficial cross-pollinators.
Insect management has changed over the years. Local orchard manager Andy Christenson of Sprangers Orchard gave insight into their approach.
“Bug control is looking out for mites and other harmful insects — not the ones that are natural pollinators — but making sure that those insects are taken care of. We do spray for those here in the orchard for the 2,000 apple trees that we have,” Christenson said.
Sustainably Speaking: Wisconsin DNR and Algae Bloom Management
For Sprangers Orchard, their methods go beyond apples. They also grow corn, pumpkins and fall flowers, requiring different approaches depending on the season’s patterns.
Other sources indicate that spraying has changed through time. Sprays are no longer automatic and instead use a targeted approach to reduce chemical loads and ensure pollinator safety. Today’s approach focuses on precision rather than volume. Spraying less often, using safer materials and keeping pollinators in mind results in healthier orchards and happier falls.
