MELROSE

About the Variety: Melrose was bred at Ohio State University's Wooster research station and released in 1944 as a cross between Jonathan and Red Delicious. It was named Ohio's official state apple in 1988, giving it strong local relevance for Cincinnati-area orchards and community education.

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Fruit Description: Medium to large apples with red striping over a green-yellow background. Flesh is cream-colored, firm, and juicy. Flavor is well-balanced sweet-tart, similar to Jonathan but milder and less acidic, with good depth.

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Harvest Window for Cincinnati/Southern Ohio: Mid to Late October

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Ripeness Indicators:

• Red striping intensifies and background yellows

• Fruit separates easily from spur

• Seeds brown

• Flesh firm but not "green-hard"

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Disease Resistance:

• Moderate resistance to fire blight

• Moderate susceptibility to scab and powdery mildew

• Not a low-spray variety but generally reliable with basic care

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Best Uses:

• Fresh eating: good all-purpose flavor

• Baking/Sauce: holds up well, classic pie apple

• Storage: keeps 3-4 months refrigerated

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How to Share This Fruit: Melrose is your Ohio pride apple. Lean into the "Ohio's state apple" story for local history and agriculture education events, especially with school groups. It's a strong choice for community potlucks and general distribution since the flavor is broadly appealing without requiring the patience GoldRush or Arkansas Black demand.