It's one of the most recognizable expressions around: "An apple a day keeps the doctor away!" The original printed proverb, first noted in 1866, went like this: "Eat an apple upon going to bed, keep the doctor from earning his bread." Nearly 150 years later, variations of this adage are still quoted. Besides being fun to say, and easy to recall, this saying does actually bear truth. Apples provide a variety of health benefits!

Apples are an excellent source of pectin, a soluble fiber that lowers blood pressure and maintains the health of the digestive system. They are also full of boron, a nutrient that supports strong bones and a healthy brain. Vitamins C, E, and A are also found abundantly within the fruit, boosting immunity and reducing the risk for heart disease, diabetes and asthma. With so many health benefits, it is no wonder our ancestors coined that phrase, and it's no wonder we still say it today!

It also comes as no surprise then that apples are one of the most widely cultivated tree fruits. Minnesota has no shortage of the popular fruit, and this year the apples are looking bigger and better than ever!

Early varieties began picking in late August and some varieties will continue until November or December. Although many growers are reporting that their apples are ripening slightly later than usual, orchards are now open for picking. Always call your orchard to determine what is ripe and ready for you!

Many apple orchards offer additional activities, making a trip to  the orchard a fun activity for the whole family! These activities may include hay rides, kids' play areas, photo cut-outs, petting zoos, fresh apple cider, and more! Some orchards even have bakeries or stores to pick up fresh apple treats, pies, jams, and even gifts. Some orchards occasionally offer pick-your-own apples, while most will have pre-picked apples ready and waiting for you!

If you decide to pick your own apples, remember that color doesn't determine how ripe an apple is. Pick firm, crisp apples by lifting up and twisting the fruit. Keeping the stem attached to any picked fruit will help keep it fresh and increase it's storage life. Minnesota Grown apples, depending on the variety, will store for over six months! Keep apples in a cool, dark place with high humidity. The Minnesota state fruit, the Honeycrisp, is particularly good for longer-term storage. Cortland are also known for being slow to brown, making them ideal apples for school lunches and salads! The University of Minnesota Extension is always a great resource for storage tips. Find more on canning, freezing, and drying apples on their website.

Keep an eye out for our next issue of the Pick of the Month, where Minnesota-based blogger, Molly Yeh, will share her favorite Minnesota Grown apple recipes!

Minnesota Grown wants to help you get out and go local this fall. The Directory contains over 100 apple orchards across the state. Search today to find one near you, and start a family tradition this fall that will create memories to last a lifetime!

Don't miss the buzz this September -- it is National Honey Month! Treat yourself and your family to something sweet made with local Minnesota Grown honey.

Honey can be substituted for sugar in many recipes. It adds a little more local love to your favorite dishes, baked goods, or drinks! We know that honey can sweeten dishes, but did you know it also enhances the flavor profiles of other ingredients? Additionally, honey can thicken and act as a binder for sauces, marinades, dressing, and dips. Honey also provides and retains moisture which can take your baked goods to the next level and increase their shelf life.

Honey naturally wants to crystallize. If it is raw honey, it will crystallize much faster than if it has been heated. Simply place the uncovered jar in a pan of water and slowly heat it up but be careful not to boil or overheat your honey.