From the Western Cape to the Eastern Cape, South Africa grows some of the best green apples. Not only are they a nutritional powerhouse but they can also be a fantastic addition to your backyard.
A recent article published on Health For Mzansi celebrates the health benefits and versatility of green apples. In addition, it explores transplanting apple seedlings.
In South Africa, apple cultivation is prominent in the Western Cape and Eastern Cape. Nolubabalo Mzize, an MSc graduate in horticultural sciences, explains that apples thrive with ample sunlight and proper soil preparation.
Simbongile Lingishi, a horticulturist, emphasises the importance of early morning and late afternoon irrigation to ensure healthy growth. “Apples require at least eight hours of sunlight a day during the growing season,” Mzize shares.
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A zesty kick to your meals
Simbongile Lingishi, a horticulturist from the Eastern Cape department of rural development and agrarian reform, explains that green apples thrive when planted in July, though spring is also a good option. He also shares information on apple tree cultivation, particularly focusing on soil preparation and irrigation practices.
According to Kulani Mtileni, founder of Dietitians24, green apples are not just a refreshing snack but a nutritional powerhouse. These apples are packed with fibre, particularly pectin, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full. Their green hue indicates high levels of antioxidants, including vitamin C, which bolsters the immune system and combats free radicals.
Chef Siphe Ntsabo from Parklands, Cape Town, highlights the culinary versatility of green apples.
“They add a splash of colour and a crunchy flavour to stir-fries and blend beautifully into homemade fruit juices,” Ntsabo notes. She recommends using them in raw salads, smoothies, or as a complement to roasted pork tenderloin. She also shares her Waldorf salad recipe, a standout example of how green apples can elevate your dishes.
READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE.
This article was first published on Health For Mzansi and written by Vateka Halile.
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