10/09/2026
How do we know when an apple is ripe? Here our farm manager Paul is showing why color is not always a reliable indicator. Iodine starch tests are one way we determine maturity, since apples have natural starch that gradually converts to sugar as the fruit ripens.
The apples are cut in half and dipped in iodine. After about a minute, the starchy areas turn black, while areas with sugar remain the same color. Monitoring changes in starches and sugars help us decide when to harvest each variety for optimal flavor, texture, and storage.
Cuyama Orchards 🍎🍏