Apple Tree Day

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It’s time to celebrate one of the most beloved and versatile fruit trees in the world: our dear old friend, the apple tree.
Whether you’re a fan of crisp Granny Smiths, juicy Honeycrisps, or tart Braeburns, there’s no denying the importance of this tree in human culture and cuisine.
Join us on January 6th for Apple Tree Day, a time to appreciate and celebrate the beauty and bounty of this incredible plant.
So get a slice of apple pie and pour a glass of apple cider and let’s get to the core of this celebration!

An Apple a Day Keeps the Doctor Away, but What about the Tree?

Apple trees, or Malus domestica, have been around for centuries, and they’re not going anywhere.
The apple tree, also known in latin as “Malus domestica,” which means “domesticated apple, but can also be loosely translated as “house-trained rascal”. (Don’ t believe me? Look it up for yourself!)
Originating in Central Asia, the apple was brought to Europe by the Romans and has been cultivated there ever since. Today, there are over 7,500 known cultivars of apples, each with their own unique flavor and texture.
Today, it is grown all over the world and is considered one of the most popular fruit trees.
Apple trees are  a member of the rose family, along with cherries, peaches, quinces, and apricots.
Yes, they’re all rosy flowers. Who knew?

Apple trees are usually propagated by grafting, which is the process of joining the tissues of two different apple trees.
It can take up to five years to produce fruit, but once they do, they can bear fruit for decades.
This creates a hybrid apple tree with unique characteristics, such as different sizes, colors, and flavors.
Apples are also created through cross-pollination, where pollen from one apple tree is transferred to another, resulting in new and diverse apple varieties.
Apple trees need to be treated with a lot of attention, care and the right conditions to grow the juiciest apples.
There are over 7,500 different types of apples, so you’re bound to find one that suits your taste buds.

How to Pamper your Apple Tree like a Baby

If you’re lucky enough to have an apple tree in your backyard, or you’re thinking of planting one, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
Taking care of an apple tree is no easy feat.
It requires proper pruning, regular fertilization, and protection from pests and diseases.
So, be sure to do your research before embarking on this horticultural journey.
Make sure your tree gets plenty of sunlight and water and learn to prune your tree regularly to promote good air circulation and fruit production.
When the tree begins to bear fruit, be sure to thin the apples to prevent overcrowding and to promote larger, healthier fruit.
Definitely make sure to protect your tree from pests and diseases who likes them apples as much as you do, so you can enjoy those delicious apples for years to come.
Apple trees thrive in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0, and they require full sunlight to produce fruit.
And remember, patience is key! It can take up to 5 years for your apple tree to bear fruit!

The Apples in Mythology

In myth and legend, the apple has played an important role as a symbol of temptation, wisdom, and even immortality.
From the Greek myth of the golden apple of Eris to the Norse myth of Idun’s apples, which provided eternal youth to the gods and the poisoned apple of Snow White.
Contrary to popular versions of the story of the garden of Eden, the apple that tempted Eve and Adam wasn’t originally an apple.
In the oldest version of the story the fruit was simply called “fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil”.
Latin however is a latin that is very open to puns, which has already caused many problems with translating original latin scripts to other languages leaving a lot of the original eloquence lost in translation.
In this case, the translators could have consulted the original versions, but instead the translations were made from the latin versions of the Old Testament instead. Those were different times when books had to be physically transported instead of instantly shared by a world wide wordbase.
When the Bible was translated to latin, writers chose the translate “fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil” to “malus” which can both mean “apple” or “bad” or “evil” or “wicked”.  Why that was, that is etymology lost in time.
What we’re certain of is that this versatile fruit has captured our imaginations for centuries!

Apples have always had a mysterious allure, and we can’t help but wonder what kind of personality they would have if fruit could talk.
Apples might be the overachievers of the fruit world.
They’re versatile, nutritious, and come in a variety of flavors.
Plus, they’re great for snacking, baking, making into cider, you can make puppets of them and even…eh herbal pipes?
They’re the type of fruit that always gets the job done and leaves you feeling supported.

The Mysterious Origin of Apple Tree Day

Now, as for the origin of this holiday, the truth is, it’s a magical mystery!
Legend has it that Apple Tree Day was created by a group of apple farmers who were tired of people not appreciating their hard work.
They decided to band together and create a holiday dedicated to the glorious fruit that had brought them so much joy (and money).
And why January 6th? Well, that’s when the apple trees take a well-deserved rest after a bountiful fall harvest.

How to Celebrate Apple Tree Day

Whether you have an apple tree in your backyard or not, there are plenty of ways to celebrate Apple Tree Day.
Here are a few ideas:

• First off, get yourself some fresh apples, and lots of them.
• Take a stroll through an apple orchard and pick some fresh apples.
• Share a basket of apples with friends and neighbors.
• Try your hand at baking an apple pie or making some homemade applesauce and share it with your loved ones.
• Plant an apple tree in your yard or community garden.
• Learn about the different types of apples and try a new variety.
• Attend an apple-themed festival or event.
•  If you’re feeling ambitious, host an apple tasting party and invite your friends and family to join in on the fun.
• And don’t forget to share your apple tree love on social media using the hashtag #AppleTreeDay.

Safety Tips for Apple Tree Day:

Now, before you go too crazy with all those apples, let’s talk safety.
Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling apples to avoid contamination.
• Make sure to wear sunscreen and bug spray, and stay hydrated if you’re spending time outside.
• When picking apples, make sure to use a sturdy ladder or step stool, and always have someone with you in case of a fall. 
• If you’re doing any heavy lifting, make sure to use proper form to avoid injury.
• Be aware of any allergies or sensitivities you or your guests may have to apples or other fruits.
  Consider having alternative snacks available for those who cannot enjoy apples.
• IIf you’re planning on serving alcoholic cider or other drinks, make sure to drink responsibly and never drink and drive. Offer non-alcoholic options for those who do not wish to partake.
• Finally, remember to have fun but also be respectful of the environment and the trees themselves. Don’t damage or harm the trees in any way, and dispose of any trash or apple cores properly.

With these safety tips in mind, you are now safe from the tricks bad apples can play!
So go ahead, take a bite out of life and celebrate these delicious trees!

In Conclusion

Apple Tree Day is a time to appreciate the wonders of nature and the delicious fruits it provides us.
Whether you’re picking apples from a tree or baking an apple pie, take a moment to give thanks to the apple tree and all the hard work it takes to grow these tasty treats.
So, grab a friend or family member, put on your favorite apple-themed apron, and get ready to celebrate Apple Tree Day in style. And if anyone asks why you’re celebrating, just tell them that Wild Calendar gave you permission to do so.
Happy Apple Tree Day!