Tasmania’s apple pickers are back in the orchards, with the 2026 harvest officially underway after a later-than-usual start to the season.
Early varieties including Royal Gala and Smitten began arriving on shelves around Australia in mid-March.
But growers say a cool spring and mild summer pushed fruit development back at every stage, from flowering to picking.
Stored fruit from last season has largely run out, leaving a gap on supermarket shelves that the new crop is now filling.
The good news is the wait appears to have been worth it, with the industry’s peak body saying this year’s crop is shaping up to be plentiful and high quality.
Fruit Growers Tasmania CEO Peter Cornish said the state’s apple growers continued to deliver.
“Some families have been growing apples for six generations and their commitment continues to shine through in every crisp, juicy bite,” he said.
“We encourage everyone to get out and purchase a bag of Tasmanian apples for Easter – they really are something special.”
Later varieties including Jazz, Granny Smith, Golden Delicious and Envy are expected on shelves in coming weeks, along with uniquely Tasmanian varieties such as Southern Bliss, Rubigold and Tiger Fuji.
Tasmania’s mild temperatures, long daylight hours and cool nights give its apples a natural edge, allowing fruit to develop slowly and build the crispness and sweetness the state’s growers are known for.
The slower growing conditions also make the fruit well suited to longer storage.
The island state has been growing apples for more than 175 years.
Once a major exporter to the UK and Asia, the industry now focuses on domestic sales, with some targeted exports to Thailand, Singapore and China.
Cornish said autumn was the ideal time to support local growers.
“Tasmania grows exceptional temperate fruit and now is a great time to pick up a bag of crisp, sweet apples grown in your local area,” he said.
Tasmanian apples are available at roadside stalls, farmers markets, IGA and Salamanca Fresh stores and major supermarkets.
