The Apple Works

The Apple Works began in 1989 when Rick and Sarah Brown began planting trees on what is now the Southern quarter of the orchard. Two years later the trees bore their first crop, and the Browns had already started receiving orders. The Apple Works officially became a business in 1993 when the Browns built the first half of their barn.

Since these humble beginnings, the Apple Works has grown into a year-round farm. They open in mid-April with a greenhouse full of bedding plants and hanging baskets. They hit their busy season in September as the majority of their apple trees begin to bear fruit and their “U-pick” pumpkin patch opens. And in December they sell Christmas trees.

They also have plenty of activities to keep the kids happy including wagon rides, a petting zoo, a bamboo maze, and a super slide.

If you’re looking for an educational experience, the Apple Works hosts field trips where students can learn about what it takes to grow the many different types of apples grown at the orchard and the process to get those apples ready to sell.

The Apple Works is in a very rural location near the border of Johnson and Brown Counties. It’s open Monday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.