Israel Tests New Apple Varieties for Future Harvests

An experimental orchard on the Golan Heights is currently evaluating several new apple varieties that could soon be cultivated commercially across Israel. The trial, located in Kibbutz El-Rom on nine dunams of land, aims to introduce apples with unique flavors and improved agricultural characteristics to Israeli orchards within the next few years. These new varieties are being assessed for their taste, yield, cost-effectiveness, and adaptability to local conditions.

Eyal Yonai, a researcher at MIGAL, the applied research institute of Tel Hai University, is leading the evaluation. He explained that planting 50 trees of each variety, rather than just a few, allows for a more thorough assessment of their performance and adaptation. This initiative is part of a broader effort by Israel's fruit cultivation sector to integrate new apple generations into its agricultural landscape.

The introduction of new apple varieties to Israeli commercial orchards has been infrequent, with the Pink Lady being the last new type introduced in the 1980s, preceded by Granny Smith in the early 1970s. The current program, initiated about a decade ago, seeks to diversify Israel's apple offerings in response to climate change and evolving market demands, by adapting popular international varieties.

Several promising candidates are undergoing final testing. These include Australia's Bravo, known for its deep red color and late harvest; Crimson Crisp, an early-ripening, scab-resistant red apple; the crisp and juicy American Sweet Tango; Alpi Gala, suited for areas with challenging coloration conditions; and Zingy, an orange apple with a balanced, slightly tart flavor. French varieties Inogo and Inobi, yielding large yellow and red fruits respectively, are also being tested.

Yonai noted Zingy and Inogo as his personal favorites for taste, while acknowledging subjective preferences. The selection process, funded by the Ministry of Agriculture's chief scientist and involving Dr. Omer Karayen, employs strict criteria. Researchers are looking for varieties resistant to diseases like powdery mildew and scab, which reduces the need for spraying, as well as high yields and long shelf life. For consumers, crisp texture, vibrant color, and resistance to becoming mealy over time are crucial.

Successful adaptation could lead to tastier, more visually appealing, and climate-resilient apples in Israel. However, this may also result in the phasing out of traditional varieties like Jonathan, Orleans, Grand, and Anna, which have struggled with small fruit size, poor coloration, and short shelf life in Israel's climate.