After Cosmic Crisp, Scientists Unveil an Apple for the Climate Change Era
The New York Times • • business
Key Points:
- The U.S. apple industry, valued at $23 billion, relies on developing new apple varieties to maintain consumer interest across generations.
- Climate change and global economic uncertainties have added new challenges, requiring apples to be resilient to unpredictable weather and market conditions.
- Washington State University, which developed the successful Cosmic Crisp apple, is now introducing the Sunflare, a variety designed to be flavorful and hardier amid rising costs and changing climates.
- According to horticulturist Kate Evans, while no single apple variety can satisfy all needs, each new market introduction aims to offer improved qualities.
