The Size of the World's Largest Apple
When we talk about apples, what often comes to mind are red fruits the size of a fist. However, in the foothills of Aomori Prefecture, Japan, a type of apple that defies common perception is creating a natural wonder—a world's number one apple weighing over two pounds, which is changing the perception of the fruit world with its astonishing size and unique flavor.
Origin of the Variety and Cultivation Process
A Miracle Nurtured by Forests
The world's number one apple was born in the apple golden belt at 40 degrees north latitude. The day and night temperature difference of 10 degrees Celsius in Aomori Prefecture and the mineral-rich volcanic ash soil provide perfect conditions for sugar accumulation in the fruit. Local fruit farmers, after three generations of breed improvement, crossed traditional Fuji apples with European wild species to eventually cultivate this super variety that combines Eastern and Western genes.
Analysis of Fruit Characteristics
A Double Shock to the Eyes and Taste
The fruit's skin, with a diameter of over 15 centimeters, presents a gem-like luster. The special structure with a flesh density of 0.85g/cm³ allows it to maintain a crisp and tender texture while supporting greater weight. Laboratory tests show that its sweetness is consistently between 16-18 Brix, with the fruit acid ratio precisely controlled, forming a unique flavor that is sweet with a hint of honey.
The Secret of Weight Breakthrough
Through artificial thinning techniques, only 1-2 fruits are retained per branch, combined with a calcium and magnesium element enhancement fertilization plan, allowing a single apple to continue absorbing (S-Y) for over 180 days. In the 2019 Aomori Prefecture Apple Competition, a fruit weighing 1580 grams set a new Guinness record.
Core Production Area Planting System
The Gift of Geographic Environment
The gentle slope terrain of the Hakkoda Mountains in Aomori Prefecture, combined with natural waterways formed by winter snow, creates a unique microclimate environment. Fruit farmers use a three-dimensional planting mode, with upper-level trees shielding strong winds, middle-level shrubs maintaining humidity, and ground herbs forming a natural insulation layer.
Refined Cultivation Management
From artificial pollination during the flowering period to the use of reflective films during the maturation period, every step reflects extreme craftsmanship. Tree spacing is strictly controlled at 4-5 meters to ensure each plant receives over 2000Lux of light intensity. IoT sensors monitor the soil EC value in real-time, providing precise nutrient supply to each fruit tree.
Growth Conditions and Ecological Value
This giant apple has strict ecological requirements: it needs over 2000 hours of sunlight per year and a stable temperature of 15-20 degrees Celsius during the flowering period. Its developed root system can penetrate 3 meters into the ground, effectively preventing soil and water loss. Each hectare of apple orchard can fix 12 tons of carbon annually, becoming a model of local ecological agriculture.
When we place this unconventional apple on a scale, it measures not only the magic of nature's creation but also the wisdom of human collaboration with nature. These giant apples from Aomori Prefecture, heading to the world's high-end market, are telling the story of the endless possibilities of agricultural innovation in a sweet way.