The Golden Delicious apples host a remarkable 57,000 genes, which eases the production of fruit with favorable characteristics and makes the crossbreeding potential of Golden Delicious undeniable.

Adequate canopy coverage can reduce the problem. Apple trees need to be pruned to keep them healthy, but over-pruning can reduce leaf coverage and expose fruit and thin bark to intense summer sun.

But now, grocery stores carry more than 20 apple varieties throughout the year — twice as many than a decade ago. There are so many delicious apples now that some call this the golden age of apples.

But now, grocery stores carry more than 20 apple varieties throughout the year — twice as many than a decade ago. There are so many delicious apples now that some call this the golden age of apples.