The Best States to Grow Jonathan Apples

Jonathan apples are a beloved heirloom variety known for their sweet-tart flavor and versatility in both fresh eating and cooking. Their crisp texture and balanced flavor make them a favorite for apple pies, applesauce, and cider. Originally discovered in New York in the 19th century, Jonathan apples have since become widely grown across the United States, especially in regions with temperate climates and cool winters.

This article explores the best states for growing Jonathan apples based on climate, soil conditions, and overall suitability for apple cultivation.

1. New York

New York is where the Jonathan apple was first discovered, and it remains one of the best states for growing this variety. The state’s cool springs, warm summers, and crisp fall weather create ideal conditions for producing flavorful Jonathan apples. New York is also one of the largest apple-producing states in the country, and Jonathan apples thrive in the fertile soil of the Hudson Valley and the Finger Lakes region.

  • Best growing regions: Hudson Valley, Finger Lakes, Champlain Valley

2. Michigan

Michigan’s climate is perfect for growing apples, and Jonathan apples thrive in its temperate weather. The state benefits from the moderating effects of the Great Lakes, which help prevent extreme temperature fluctuations. Michigan is the second-largest apple producer in the U.S., and its sandy loam soils and cool nights are ideal for growing flavorful Jonathan apples.

  • Best growing regions: Western Michigan, especially near Lake Michigan, and northern parts of the Lower Peninsula

3. Ohio

Jonathan apples grow exceptionally well in Ohio due to the state’s moderate climate and fertile soils. Ohio’s apple-growing regions experience cool winters and warm summers, with ample rainfall throughout the growing season. The Jonathan variety is prized for its long storage life, making it a popular choice among Ohio growers.

  • Best growing regions: Northeast Ohio, including the area around Cleveland and Lake Erie

4. Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania, known for its diverse agricultural production, is an excellent state for growing Jonathan apples. The state’s rolling hills and valleys provide ideal conditions for apple orchards, particularly in central and southeastern Pennsylvania. The moderate climate and well-drained soils of this region contribute to the robust flavor of Jonathan apples.

  • Best growing regions: Adams County, Cumberland Valley, and York County

5. Virginia

The Shenandoah Valley of Virginia is a prime location for apple cultivation, and Jonathan apples thrive in this region. Virginia’s cool mountain climate, combined with its well-drained soil, creates optimal conditions for growing high-quality apples. Jonathan apples grown in Virginia develop a distinctive sweet-tart flavor, making them highly sought after for fresh eating and baking.

  • Best growing regions: Shenandoah Valley, Blue Ridge Mountains

6. Missouri

Missouri’s apple-growing regions, particularly in the southern part of the state, provide an excellent environment for Jonathan apples. The warm summers and mild winters of Missouri help apples mature with a balanced flavor. Jonathan apples are well-suited to Missouri’s fertile soils, and the variety is commonly grown by local farmers for regional markets.

  • Best growing regions: Southern Missouri, especially near the Ozark Mountains

7. Illinois

Illinois is another great state for growing Jonathan apples, particularly in the southern and central regions. The state’s rich, fertile soil and moderate climate create excellent conditions for apple trees. In particular, the central region’s long growing season and mild autumns help produce high-quality Jonathan apples with great flavor.

  • Best growing regions: Southern Illinois, especially around the Shawnee Hills

8. Iowa

Iowa’s cool winters and warm summers are well-suited to Jonathan apples. The state’s fertile soil, abundant in organic matter, supports healthy apple orchards. In Iowa, Jonathan apples are often used for making cider, as their sweet-tart flavor adds complexity to the final product.

  • Best growing regions: Eastern Iowa, particularly along the Mississippi River

9. Nebraska

Nebraska may not be as well-known for apple growing as other states, but the eastern part of the state provides excellent conditions for Jonathan apples. The warm, sunny days and cool nights of Nebraska’s growing season help develop the perfect balance of sugar and acidity in the fruit.

  • Best growing regions: Eastern Nebraska, especially near the Missouri River

10. Colorado

Jonathan apples also grow well in Colorado, particularly in the state’s western regions. The warm, sunny days and cool nights of Colorado’s high-elevation orchards help produce apples with intense flavor. Jonathan apples from Colorado are known for their crisp texture and balanced sweetness, making them ideal for both eating fresh and baking.

  • Best growing regions: Western Colorado, particularly around the Grand Valley

11. Washington

While Washington is best known for its Red Delicious and Honeycrisp varieties, Jonathan apples also grow well in the state’s temperate climate. Washington’s apple-growing regions benefit from warm, sunny days and cool nights, which help produce apples with a great balance of flavor and firmness.

  • Best growing regions: Central Washington, especially around the Yakima and Wenatchee Valleys

Growing Conditions for Jonathan Apples

Jonathan apples thrive in regions with:

  • Cool winters: This variety requires a certain number of chill hours (below 45°F) to break dormancy and produce flowers.
  • Warm summers: Warm daytime temperatures encourage the development of sugars in the fruit, contributing to its sweet flavor.
  • Well-drained soils: Jonathan apples prefer fertile, well-drained soils rich in organic matter. Loamy or sandy soils are ideal.
  • Full sun: Apple trees need at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day to produce healthy fruit.

Conclusion

Jonathan apples are a versatile and flavorful variety that can be grown in several U.S. states, with New York, Michigan, Ohio, and Pennsylvania leading the way. These states offer the perfect blend of climate and soil conditions to produce high-quality apples. Whether you’re growing Jonathan apples for fresh eating, baking, or cider production, these states provide optimal growing environments for this beloved apple variety.