APPLES
Zgodovina
Apple trees are indigenous to Central Asia, where the original wild ancestors of this fruit tree still grow today.
Apples have been cultivated in Asia and Europe for thousands of years, but it was not until the 17th century, that they were first imported to North America by the colonists.
Over time, apple growers have been cross-breeding and improving varieties, so that today there are more than 7,500 apple varieties in the world.
Uporaba
Dried apples are a delicious snack, which can be eaten on their own, and they are also perfect together with other types of dried fruits, walnuts and other nuts.
Apple pieces can be added to breakfast cereals or used for baking, in salads and to add a twist to pork dishes.
Pridelovanje
Today, the world apple production is estimated to be 85 million tons, with China taking the lead (48% of the world crop), followed by the USA and Poland.
The trees are usually pruned so that they can grow to a maximum height of 8 metres, and also the branch density is adjusted to make picking easier. The fruit matures in late Summer or Autumn.
Zanimivost
The science of studying apples is called pomology.
Apples were given symbolic meanings by the Nordic and German pagan tribes, and symbolism was also noted in Greek mythology and Christianity.
Probably the most famous Slovenian saying is: “An apple a day, keeps the doctor away.”
