E.Z. Orchards HarvestFest kicks-off this weekend

The E.Z. Orchards HarvestFest opens this Saturday, October 1st. HarvestFest will be closed on October 2nd and 3rd, but open again for the remainder of the month.

E.Z. Orchards shortcake stand opens with arrival of fresh Oregon strawberries

by Nate Rafn

The opening of the shortcake stand at E.Z. Orchards Farm Market seems to signify the official start of summer. June brings strawberries and raspberries, followed by blueberries in July, and peaches in August.

Local farm shares story of founder, family history

This week E.Z. Orchards celebrates the birthday of its founder, Edward Zielinski, a family farmer who's life-long efforts have had a major impact on business and agriculture in the Mid-Willamette Valley.


Edward's grandson, John, shares this fascinating story about the Zielinski family and the history of E.Z. Orchards.

Founders Day

by John Zielinski

This Valentine's Day marks the 106th anniversary of the birth of our founder, my grandfather, Edward Valentine Zielinski, born February 14th 1905. It was an hour long bumpy wagon ride into the Salem hospital, so like his brothers and sisters before him he was born in the family home on Hazel Green Road. He was the 12th of 13 children in a farm family that was typical of the day. They were self sufficient. They grew almost everything they needed, had their own cows, hogs, chickens, orchards, vegetables, and grain. Surplus beyond what they needed was sold and bartered for the things that they did not grow. Ed grew up working on his father's farm. He also worked on neighboring farms. Education was important but not crucial to survival in those days, so Ed started working full time when he completed the 8th grade.

2009 Cidre from E.Z. Orchards

by Nate Rafn

The Zielinski's recently announced the completion of their first batch of Traditional French Cidre.

E.Z. Orchards grows French, English, and Early American apple varieties for their new endeavor. The apples are harvested late in the season, pressed, and fermented in stainless steel tanks for up to six months. Natural bottle fermentation creates a bubbly effervescence- similar to sparkling wine.

The label features a simple, red apple graphic on the white backdrop. A brief description is typed on the back label.

In case you missed Harvestfest.

Every October, E.Z. Orchards invites the public to celebrate Harvestfest. This month-long event features a corn maze, pumpkin patch, petting zoo, hay rides, live bluegrass music, and seasonal treats, including apple cider donuts, pumpkin donuts, caramel apples, and much more.

Since 1996 E.Z. Orchards has used their annual harvest celebration to connect urban residents with rural traditions, and encourage people to learn more about how their food is grown. It's a fun, educational experience for children and adults alike.

E.Z. Orchards kicks-off annual harvest celebration.

October is Harvest Fest at E.Z. Orchards Farm Market, just northeast of Salem. Attractions include tractor-drawn hay rides, corn maze, petting zoo, pumpkin patch, and live music. Plus, the market will offer fresh doughnuts, apple cider, and a wide selection of autumn produce.

Visit ezorchards.com for more information.

Apples at E.Z. Orchards, plus Steve Morton's recipe for Apple Crumb Pie