McIntosh

**in 2026 our McIntosh trees were hit with Apple Scab, a fungal disease. We have plenty of fruit on the trees, but they are smaller and have black spots on them. Most will go into cider, though they would be fine if peeled to put into pies or applesauce. Some areas are more affected than others. If McIntosh is your favorite variety, this would be a good year to try some different kinds or visit some of our other wonderful local orchards that will have prettier Macs than we do!

The first McIntosh tree was discovered by John McIntosh in Dundela, Ontario, Canada around 1811. The original McIntosh apple tree, the only one of several seedlings on his land to survive, eventually lead to Dundela becoming known as McIntosh Corners and a monument now marks the site of the original tree, which survived until 1908. The McIntosh apple was introduced into Maine between 1875 and 1880 and, at first, was not well liked on account of its susceptibility to scab (a fungal disease). In 1885, it was proved both of good quality and hardy in Aroostook County. It also proved to be a good market apple and, by 1910, was being planted heavily. It eventually became the premier market apple in the state. The hardiness and good bearing qualities of the trees and the excellent quality and good color of the fruit made McIntosh the standard by which all other apples in Maine are judged even to this day. Our apple pies are almost always made with McIntosh apples. It cooks to sauce quickly as well.