Cuyama Orchards, a 600-acre farm, is surrounded by the Las Padres National Forest. Howard Albano, the 71-year old head of his family-run Cuyama Orchards, says their location is ideal for apple growing, "especially for Fuji apples, because we have the right combination of growing season, winter and summer temperatures."
The farm includes 160 certified organic acres of apple trees that produce apples for Santa Cruz Organic® brand juices. In addition to Fuji apples, Cuyama Orchards also produces Pink Lady® brand apples, Gala and crab apple varieties.
Albano says, "It costs more to farm organically, but you get more out of it. You have a better relationship with your customers because the fruit you produce has been organically grown." Albano's favorite way to enjoy his apples is "fresh off the tree."
Read a wonderful article about the orchard in the Los Angeles Times.