Introduction
Walk into a supermarket, and you’ll find maybe 5–10 apple varieties. But a century ago, orchards held hundreds — each with unique flavor, shape, and story. Many are now extinct or endangered.
Why They Were Lost
- Industrial farming preferred uniform size and long shelf life.
- Heritage fruits often bruised easily or spoiled quickly.
- Farmers abandoned rare varieties.
Examples of Lost Fruits
- Ashmead’s Kernel (England): A tart, aromatic apple from the 1700s.
- Gravenstein (Denmark): Once famous for cider, now rare.
- Seckel Pear (USA): A tiny, honey-sweet pear.
Preservation Efforts
Seed banks and heritage orchards are reviving these fruits. Small cideries and farmers’ markets are making them popular again.
Conclusion
Tasting an heirloom apple is like tasting history. By supporting heritage orchards, we help ensure the old orchard lives on.