About Us:
Wheeler's Orchard and Vineyard sits atop Fredonia Mountain, just an hour's drive from downtown Chattanooga, welcoming visitors August through December.
Wade Wheeler, his wife and nine children, planted the first apple trees in the spring of 1978. Now, 35 years later, Wade's children, grandchildren, and even a few great grandchildren continue to tend to the trees under the tutelage of the aging Mr. Wheeler. The small orchard of about 400 trees boasts 14 varieties of popular apples for eating, cooking and preserving. Heritage varieties like the Winesap, Granny Smith and Old Time Golden Delicious are staples for customers who frequent the fall every season for their favorite tree-ripened autumn fruits.
The small grape vineyard of 150 vines features nearly 30 varieties of red, white and purple grapes, great to eat fresh or make jams, jellies, pies, juices and wine. Grapes are harvested in August, and include popular varieties like Concord and Ontario grapes. Visitors are welcome to pick their own grapes or buy what has been picked.
Wheeler's Orchard and Vineyard practices sustainable agriculture- an integrative pest, disease, and soil management system that respects the health and vitality of the environment, wildlife, farmer and consumer. We closely monitor the trees and vines to positively identify disease, pests and deficiencies before sprayings, determine when spraying is warranted, and spray only organic products when possible. The apple trees have been chemical-free for the last two growing seasons.
