Apples have been cultivated for the past four thousand years. They were introduced to North America from Europe by the early colonists in both New England and Canada. It has been recorded that the first apples in North America were grown in Acadia in 1635.
There were several ways by which settlers started their apple orchards. They could start the apple seeds in pots; then grow them like they would any plant. This, however, was a long process that often did not work. Another method was to take cuttings or suckers from a tree, plant them in the spring, and give them lots of water. A stake in the ground beside each plant provided support and ensured the tree would grow straight.
Another popular method of propagation was grafting. This was done by uniting a scion (a detached, living portion of another tree) with the stock of the tree. This way new varieties of apple were introduced.
Apples had many food uses, and were among the first things pioneer farmers and other settlers grew. In order to keep apples from spoiling, the settlers made them into sauces, jellies, juices, and preserves. They also dried them, or used them to make a fermented liquor called cider, and fine quality vinegar, both of which could be sold.
Most apples produced in the Townships were consumed locally or sold to markets in towns elsewhere in Quebec. Some export, however, did occur.
There were many varieties of apple in Quebec, the most popular of which were the Melba, Wealthy, Lobo, Montreal Peach, and Fameuse. The Fameuse has been grown in Quebec since 1748. Several area in the Townships are known for their apple orchards: Dunham, St-Armand, Stanbridge, Frelighsburg, and Compton. The Missisquoi area is the top producer of apples in the Townships. Immediately outside of the region, Rougemont and the area to the west of Missisquoi along the US border are also major producers. Soil conditions in all of these areas is considered ideal for apple growing.