About Evercrisp®

TThe Evercrisp® apple, scientifically designated as MAIA1, is a prime example of innovative apple breeding by the MidwestApple Improvement Association (MAIA). Founded in 1998 by a coalition of fruit growers, MAIA embarked on a unique apple breeding project that equalized the development process, allowing growers of all sizes to contribute to the creation of new, superior apple varieties.

The breeding process for the Evercrisp® apple embodies a blend of tradition and scientific precision. The process of breeding begins in Springtime with the careful collection of pollen from Fuji apple blossoms, which was then used to pollinate Honeycrisp. This meticulous hand-pollination ensures that the desired traits of sweetness from Honeycrisp and the satisfying crunch of Fuji are combined. In the fall, the fruit from the fertilized Honeycrisp trees are harvested and the seeds -typically about ten per apple, are collected. These seeds were then germinated and nurtured in a greenhouse until Spring.

Following their initial growth phase, hundreds of these seedlings were distributed to original MAIA member orchards, in several states, to be planted and grown under standard orchard conditions. It took several years for these young trees to yield fruit, which were then rigorously evaluated by the growers based on quality metrics such as taste, texture, aroma and unique qualities. This lengthy process from pollination to evaluation underscores the dedication and community effort involved in bringing a standout like Evercrisp® to market. The result is an apple that not only tastes great but also stands up to the expectations of both growers and consumers, continuing the legacy of innovation in apple cultivation.