Crisp, Juicy and Ripe for the Picking: Tasmanian Apples Arrive

Fruit Growers Tasmania | Thursday, 2 April 2026, 10.05am

The 2026 Tasmanian apple harvest is officially underway, with the first pickings in mid-March bringing early varieties like Royal Gala and Smitten® to fresh fruit shelves around Australia.

This year’s apple season is running later than usual. A cool spring followed by a mild summer has delayed fruit development at every stage, from flowering to harvest. With supplies of stored fruit largely exhausted, consumers are eagerly anticipating the new crop.

The good news for apple lovers is that this year’s Tasmanian crop is shaping up to be both plentiful and high quality, delivering the sweet, juicy crispness the state’s apples are renowned for. In the coming weeks, we can expect to see later varieties such as Jazz™, Golden Delicious, Modi ®, Granny Smith, Kanzi®, Dazzle™ Missile® and Envy™ and the unique Tasmanian varieties of Southern Bliss, Rubigold and Tiger Fuji appearing on shelves and at roadside stalls.

Tasmania has a proud apple growing history spanning more than 175 years. Once a major exporter to the United Kingdom and then Asia, the industry has evolved significantly, with most Tasmanian apples now sold locally and across mainland Australia, alongside targeted exports to premium Asian markets including Thailand, Singapore and China.

“Some families have been growing apples for six generations and their commitment continues to shine through in every crisp, juicy bite,” Fruit Growers Tasmania CEO Peter Cornish said. “We encourage everyone to get out and purchase a bag of Tasmanian apples for Easter - they really are something special.”

Many Tasmanian apple growing families remain in the industry today, driven by innovation, passion and resourcefulness. Over time, the sector has undergone substantial change, not only in markets, but also in varieties, orchard systems, harvesting methods and post harvest technology.

Tasmania’s mild temperatures combined with long summer days and cool nights create ideal growing conditions for apples. This slow and steady development allows fruit to mature naturally, giving Tasmanian apples their signature crispness, juiciness and sweetness - and makes them exceptionally well suited for longer storage.

“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,” said Peter Cornish.

This season’s Tasmanian apples are available at roadside stalls, farmers markets and independent retailers including IGA, Hill Street, Salamanca Fresh as well as in the major supermarkets. If you are wanting to purchase directly from the orchard this Easter, then check out the Tasmanian Seasonal Produce Guide.