The Apple of RI

The Rhode Island Greening is the state's official fruit

Fall in Rhode Island often means apples, apples and more apples. While you’re picking your own or preparing to buy them from the market this year, consider the Rhode Island Greening. This tart, medium to large sized apple was developed from seed around 1650 by an inn keeper named Mr. Green, in Green’s End (known presently as Middletown) and it is, well, green. Considered one of the oldest known apple varieties, the Rhode Island Greening was very popular in New England as well as New York and other regions in the Northeast up until the beginning of the 20th century. Also known as ‘Green’s Inn’ apples, Mt. Hygeia Farm in Foster had one of the oldest trees still producing the fruit until the early 1900s. Though the apple could be found in markets until around 1930, it started to fall out of favor due in part to the fact that it only bares fruit every other year. In spite of their decline in abundance, the Rhode Island Greening bares the distinction of being our state’s official fruit since 1991 and has enjoyed a rise in demand over the last six years.

Pies are the best use of the Rhode Island Greening, as it is crisp, juicy and holds its shape when baked. It is also versatile and can be made into cider, applesauce or just eaten fresh off the tree. These apples are considered “late season” as they become ripe between late September and mid October. Additionally they store well and can last up to five or even six months when refrigerated. Storing the apples for a period allows their flavor to become more sweet.

If you are searching for what is considered an unrivaled apple for pie, one place they can still be found is at Steere Orchard in Greenville during their growing season.

Steere Orchard
150 Austin Avenue, Greenville
401-949-1456
SteereOrchard.com