At the Rodale Institute, we have 1,100 apple trees that grow a variety of certified organic apples. These trees were originally part of a research project and upon completion of that research, Rodale Institute decided to take on the cost of maintaining these trees. Today, they are a landmark on our farm, celebrated each year at our Annual Organic Apple Festival.
Conventionally grown fruit is bred for ship-ability and shelf life. Each apple is exposed to up to 42 different toxic chemicals that leave behind pesticide residues many which cannot be washed off. We believe that there are a wide variety of benefits associated with eating organically.
Apples grown at Rodale Institute have never been exposed to pesticides and are not raised with synthetic fertilizers. Organic apple skins also provide an important boost of antioxidants - 15% more than non-organic.
Sponsor one of our organic Apple Trees and help us expand our classes on organic apple orchard management, and initiate a research project on understory plantings allowing us to protect the trees, prevent weeds, and use less water.
