Founded in 1873, the Maine State Pomological Society is a nonprofit collective of orchardists dedicated to preserving Maine’s rich apple-growing heritage while pioneering a sustainable future. The organization represents a diverse network of growers committed to strengthening the state’s agricultural economy through advocacy, education and the promotion of Maine-grown fruit. They strive to cultivate a thriving agricultural landscape by connecting orchards across the state, sharing vital expertise, and ensuring that the tradition of Maine orchards remains vibrant for generations to come.
Maine’s unique climate, defined by cold winters and late-summer nights that dip in temperature, makes it one of the premier apple-growing regions in the world. While most supermarkets carry a handful of standard options, Maine’s orchards offer an incredible library of over 100 distinct varieties, ranging from 18th-century “antiques” to modern, explosively crisp hybrids. The season is a four-month progression of flavor, beginning with the tart “summer apples” of August and concluding with the dense, sugar-heavy “winter keepers” of late October.
Every year, the organization hosts Maine Apple Sunday, this year held on September 13th, at orchards around the state. Apple orchards from Wells to Caribou will celebrate by offering special activities at their orchards. Mark your calendars for next year and plan to visit an orchard near you!
Thank you Maine Pomological Society for your support of the 2027 School Garden of the Month Calendar!
Want to know more?!
- Apple Varieties: maineapples.org/varieties
- Apple Facts: maineapples.org/apple-facts
- Orchard Listings: maineapples.org/orchards
- Orchard Map: maineapples.org/map
- A Year in the Maine Orchard: maineapples.org/growing-apples
