The Apple House
When we first started looking at homes to buy in the area, we came across what is now our home, which had a large and abundant apple tree in the driveway. Violet, who was barely 3 at the time, instantly fell in love with the idea of the big tree beaming with apples ready for her to eat. I knew nothing of the city’s history with apple farming at the time. I only knew the city was beautifully crisp, nestled against the majestic Rocky Mountains. As it turns out, and what I began to learn after moving here, is that Boulder boasts a rich history of apple farming that intertwines with the city's growth and natural beauty. I invite you to explore the heritage of apple trees in Boulder and learn about the rewarding process of harvesting apples in this picturesque region.
A Historical Orchard Tapestry
The history of apple trees in Boulder traces back to the pioneering days when early European migrants recognized the region's potential for orchards. Orchards flourished in areas like North Boulder, where the fertile soil and favorable climate proved ideal for apple cultivation. As the Gold Rush era in the mid-1800s brought an influx of Europeans to Colorado, apple orchards thrived as more people used to these trees and the farming needed settled in the area. The European pioneers planted the seeds of opportunity, transforming the landscape into a patchwork of blossoming apple trees.
Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, apple farming became a cornerstone of Boulder's agricultural heritage. Orchards dotted the landscape, contributing to the local economy. Many women and children farmed and harvested the apples over the years of Boulder’s apple boom. The apple orchards were diverse, cultivating various apple varieties adapted to the region's climate. From the sweetness of Honeycrisp to the tartness of Granny Smith, the orchards showcased a symphony of flavors.
I first learned about Boulder’s history of apple farming at the University of Colorado Museum of Natural History. I had been looking for an activity for Violet on a Saturday morning, when I came across the impressive Museum, right here in downtown Boulder. They were featuring an exhibit by the Boulder Apple Tree Project. Learn more about the project here, and explore the interactive map that researchers have established!
Growing Apples in Boulder Today
If you’re in Boulder and looking to grow apples yourself, here are a few tips to get you started. We planted an additional 6 trees in the Fall of 2022. They’re happy and healthy in our fertile soil. Here’s what we learned so far:
Timing is Key: We planted our trees in the Fall, which we were initially very concerned about. We thought surely the trees couldn’t survive the cold in January of 2023, when a storm dipped us below -15 for several days. However, as the Spring came along, our trees exploded with blossoms and happy growth. We were very impressed with their success.
Selecting the Right Apples: Boulder's growing conditions offer success for a variety of apples, each with its unique flavor profile. Whether you prefer a crisp snack or apples perfect for baking, you'll find options to suit your taste. We planted Cortland Apples, which are great for making desserts. They’re hardy to -30 and can be happily grown up to 8500ft in elevation. We purchased them from The Tree Farm in Longmont, Colorado, along with 2 peach trees.
Watering in Winter: We initially thought we shouldn’t water the trees during the Winter, for fear of freezing the root systems. However, we learned that even on a day when the weather warms up to 40ish degrees, we can water the trees without harming them. We learned a lot in the first year, and we were equally nervous about the trees getting too hot in the Summer time. Alas, they’re still growing strong!
Preserving the Legacy
Today, Boulder's apple harvest is woven into the fabric of the farm-to-table movements.Boulder's apple heritage extends to cider making traditions. Explore local cideries (like this one!) that embrace the region's apple bounty, crafting beverages that pay homage to the apples cultivated in this historic land. Local restaurants and markets celebrate the season's harvest by incorporating fresh, locally grown apples into their menus.
Experience the joy of harvesting your own apples by participating in U-pick events at local orchards. This hands-on approach not only connects you with the agricultural heritage of Boulder but also ensures the freshest fruit for your table. Visit renowned local orchards in Boulder, such as Morton's Orchard, to savor the quintessential apple-picking experience. Engage in family-friendly activities, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and revel in the beauty of ripe apple-laden branches.
Community orchards, often found in neighborhood pockets, contribute to the continuation of Boulder's apple legacy. These shared spaces foster a sense of community, allowing residents to connect over the joys of tending to and harvesting from local orchards. Harvesting apples in Boulder is more than a seasonal activity; it's a journey through time, connecting the present with the region's agricultural past. As you pluck apples from the branches against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, you become part of a legacy that has shaped Boulder's identity and continues to bear fruit for generations to come. So, whether you're strolling through historic orchards or picking apples at a U-pick event, savor the experience and the rich history that unfolds with each crisp, juicy bite.