History of Cortland Apples

The Cortland apple, a popular variety, was developed in 1898 by the New York State Agricultural Experiment Station through crossbreeding Ben Davis and McIntosh apples. It inherited desirable traits from both parent varieties, including a sweet-tart taste, tender flesh, firm texture, and resistance to browning when sliced. Cortland apples thrive in well-draining soil, full sun exposure, and a temperate climate, making them suitable for cultivation in the northeastern United States and eastern Canada.