Six varieties of Apples presently grown on a commercial scale in Kashmir .
AMBRI KASHMIR( AMRI )
Lawrence has mentioned this apple in his book as the most popular fruit found in the valley. It used to be the fruit of Choice of Kashmiris at that time . Unfortunately its production has dwindled over the years on account of rapid plantation of other fast growing varities . Presently its production is mostly confined to Shopian and Kulgam area only though fresh plantation in other district is also taking place. A wild variety of this apple is also grown in Batote area of jammu. It is crisp , sweat and aromatic fruit indigenous to Kashmir .The apple continues to remain most sought after fruit in the valley . It is blushed red , striped and has longer storage life.The fruit matures for consumption in Mid october .
AMERICAN TREL (American Apirogue )
It is a medium sized variety quite juicy . The flesh is blushy red and hard .This variety matures for consumption in mid september . It is a good fruit for dessert.This variety is cheaper and economical as one can buy 12 to 15 pieces in a Kg.
DELICIOUS ( Red Delicious )
This is a world renowned variety largely grown in Sopore belt but now grown all over in Kashmir .The fruit has a typical geometrical shape and five lobes at the apex. The skin of this variety is striped , blushy red and smooth .It is juicy and aromatic . It has differrent sizes and matures for consumption in Mid september . It has abundant market in various fruit Mandies of the country and is available for five months in the market easily from mid september. This is a sweet variety of the fruit.
MAHARAJI ( White dotted red )
It is a large sized apple with bright red coloured skin.It is juicy but acidic . It sweetens with storage only and is available in the market in Late october .It is also consumed in cooking and preparation of desserts.
HAZARATBALI ( Benoni )
It is a medium sized apple maturing for consumption in mid july.It has a conical shape and the skin is tender and juicy. It has smaller shelf life and is also consumed domestically in bulk.
KESRI (Cox orange pipin )
It is an old english medium sized apple . The flesh of this apple is yellow , firm and crisp.It is a little acidic but matures on storage to sweetness. It is a mid august variety of the fruit.
Apples are also used for extraction of pulp and juice as also for prepartion of Jams and jellies in kashmir . I believe you had enough of kashmir apples now. enjoy the views captured by me while reading this write up.
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