The Slide Rock State Park in Arizona is home to a historic apple orchard that has been a part of the park’s landscape for over a century. This blog post will explore the fascinating history of the orchard, how the apple trees are maintained and cared for, and the process of harvesting the apples each year.
What is the history of the apple orchard at Slide Rock State Park?
The apple orchard at Slide Rock State Park was established in 1912 by Frank L. Pendley, who had acquired the land under the Homestead Act in 1910. Pendley developed an innovative irrigation system, which is still in use today, allowing him to plant the first apple trees. The orchard was the primary cash crop of the Pendley family homestead, and the property became Slide Rock State Park in 1987. The Pendley Homestead Historic District was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1991, making it one of the few preserved homesteads in Oak Creek Canyon.
How are the apple trees maintained and cared for in the orchard?
Pruning and Dormancy:
During the winter, the apple trees enter dormancy, and pruning begins. Pruning objectives include removing dead wood, admitting sunlight, allowing aeration, promoting quality fruit, and shaping the trees for easier harvest and passage. Tools used include loppers, handsaws, and chainsaws, with three-legged aluminum ladders for accessing high sections.
Spring Care:
In early spring, blossoms and bud growth occur. The flowers are cross-pollinated with the help of bees, other insects, and wind. This period is fragile due to the risk of late freezes and codling moth infestations. Pheromone traps are used to monitor moths, and insecticides are applied as necessary. Thinning of excess fruit is also performed to improve the size and quality of the remaining apples.
Summer Irrigation:
During the hot summer months, the trees are irrigated using electric pumps that bring water from Oak Creek. Long aluminum pipes with sprinklers deliver water to each section of the orchard. Branches sagging under the weight of fruit are propped up with cull lumber.
What is the process of harvesting apples at Slide Rock State Park?
Harvest Season:
Apple picking typically starts in late August or early September. Indicators of maturity include size, color, firmness, and taste. Apples are carefully picked to avoid bruising, sorted, and boxed before being taken to cold storage.
Harvest Process:
The apples are harvested using traditional methods, with the fruit being sorted and boxed in the historic Apple Packing Shed built by Frank Pendley. The harvest is celebrated with the Slide Rock Apple Festival, which includes activities like pick-your-own apple programs, games, entertainment, and vendor booths.
Additional Details for Visitors
Park Hours and Fees:
The park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM from February 4 to November 25, and from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM from November 26 to February 3. The entrance fee varies by season: $10 per vehicle (1-4 adults) from November to February, $20 per vehicle from March 1 to the Thursday before Memorial Day, and $20 on weekdays and $30 on weekends and holiday Mondays from the Friday before Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Apple Picking Experience:
Visitors can pick apples from the orchard, which contains over 300 apple trees. The cost includes the state park entrance fee and the purchase of a bag or box to collect apples. Varieties include Starking Double Red Delicious, Rome Beauty, Golden Delicious, Fuji, and Winesap.
Facilities and Activities:
The park offers amenities such as restrooms, picnic tables, and the Slide Rock Market for supplies and souvenirs. Activities include swimming, wading, and sliding on the natural rock water slide, as well as hiking on short trails like the Pendley Homestead Trail and Clifftop Nature Trail.
References
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Apple Orchard | Slide Rock State Park – Arizona State Parks
https://azstateparks.com/slide-rock/explore/apple-orchard -
Slide Rock Market: Slide Rock Facilities | Slide Rock State Park
https://www.sliderockmarket.com -
Sedona Slide Rock State Park: The Ultimate Way to Stay Cool
https://www.sedona.net/slide-rock