Industry Spotlight: Honeycrisp Apples

Industry Spotlight: Honeycrisp Apples

Honeycrisp apples are one of those varieties that have embedded themselves into both sides of the industry. They are known by name for consumers and buyers alike, yet they bring with them all the peaks and valleys of a fresh vocation. Who better to speak on this than a legacy link like Rainier Fruit Company’s Mark Zirkle?


Mark Zirkle,

President, Rainier Fruit Company

“Growing and packing Honeycrisp undoubtedly brings a greater range of emotions than any other apple variety. Suffice it to say, even after 30 years, we are still learning lessons with this diabolical yet rewarding variety—from soaring highs, when an orchard harvests and a big crop of sweet glowing fruit delights consumers, to crushing lows when that same block might offer up a small harvest with big losses the next year. Developing a strong organic Honeycrisp program with the legs to last a full calendar year was another great undertaking—one we’ve maintained for five seasons straight now.

We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished with this variety over the years, growing Rainier Honeycrisp to stand apart from others in the category with quality, quantity, and service.”