Hackworth

Why you should be excited

First propagated by an Alabama dentist, Hackworth was once quite popular in the U.S. south.

The story of Hackworth

In the warmth of old-time Alabama summers -- okay, the stifling, humid, heat of old-time Alabama summers -- Hackworth was a dependable favourite, with apples on each tree that would ripen at different times throughout August, providing a refreshing treat pretty much every day of the month.

Hackworth works equally well in pies, applesauce and for fresh eating, so it really was a handy variety of apple to grow.

Hence its popularity from the first quarter of the 19th century straight through to the Second World War. Then came the North America-wide decline of regional favourities, replaced by bland, mass marketed Red Delicious, among very few others.

We were lucky to be able to get our hands on some Hackworth wood to graft and introduce this fine variety to Salt Spring Island.

Hackworth Facts

Its origins

Discovered as a chance seedling in Lavonia, Georgia, USA, sometime in the mid-19th century.

Flavour, aroma, texture

The yellowish, aromatic flesh has nice flavour.

Appearance

Medium-sized and yellow, with light red blushing and stripes on the sun-kissed side.

When they’re available

Early to mid-season (usually in early September).

Quality for fresh eating

Good.

Quality for cooking

Good.

Quality for cider

This early variety was generally not used to make cider.

Keeping ability

We'll let you know when we find out.