HOW TO PICK APPLES: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE
Apple picking is a delightful and rewarding activity that allows you to enjoy the outdoors, connect with nature, and bring home fresh, delicious apples. Whether you’re visiting an orchard for the first time or are a seasoned apple picker, this guide will help you make the most of your experience.
1. Choose Gaver Farm
Selecting a good orchard is the first step to a successful apple-picking adventure. Gaver Farm is highly recognized for its variety of apples and well-maintained trees. Gaver Farm also offers additional activities, such as hayrides and farm animal visits, making for a fun full day out with the family.
2. Know the Apple Varieties
Different apple varieties ripen at different times, so it’s important to know which types of apples you want to pick. Here are a few popular varieties and their uses:
- Fuji: Sweet and crisp, great for snacking.
- Cameo: Juicy and sweet, ideal for eating fresh.
- Gala (Blondee and Buckeye): Mildly sweet, versatile for eating and cooking.
- Crimson Crisp: Crunchy and sweet taste, perfect for eating.
- Ultra Gold: Juicy and honey-flavored, a delicious snack.
- Empire: Sweet with crunch, top candidate for baking.
Check Gaver Farm’s website or call ahead to find out which varieties are currently in season.
3. Timing is Everything
Apples are typically picked from late summer to fall. Gaver Farm’s Pick Your Own season begins at the end of August and spans throughout the fall season, ending in late October. To ensure you get the best fruit, plan your visit during the peak season for your chosen apple variety.
4. Dress Appropriately
Apple picking is an outdoor activity, so dress accordingly. Wear comfy clothes and sturdy shoes for walking. Bring a hat, sunscreen for sun protection, and a light jacket if it’s cool.
5. Using the Right Equipment
Gaver Farm requires a Pick Your Own bag for picking, $25 for a Peck, and $40 for a Half Bushel. The FREE hayride on the farm will take you directly to the Apple Orchard, where the staff has picking sticks ready and available for your harvest. As a reminder, large bags, strollers, and wagons are not permitted in the orchard and should be left in the care of the orchard staff.
6. Picking Technique
To pick apples correctly and avoid damaging the tree or the fruit, follow these steps:
- Gently lift the apple: Gently lift the apple held in the palm of your hand.
- Twist and pull: Twist the apple slightly and pull it away from the branch. If it doesn’t come off easily, it’s not ripe yet.
- Handle with care: Place the picked apples gently into your bag or basket to avoid bruising.
7. Check for Ripeness
A ripe apple should be firm and have a good color for its variety. Check for any bruises or blemishes, and avoid picking apples that show signs of damage.
8. Harvest Respectfully
Be mindful of the Gaver Farm’s rules and guidelines. Only pick the apples you intend to take home and avoid damaging the trees or other fruit. Respect the property and leave the orchard as you found it.
9. Post-Picking Care
Once you’ve picked your apples, store them properly to maintain their freshness:
- Cool and dark storage: Keep apples in a cool, dark place such as a refrigerator or a basement. They should be stored away from your other fruits and vegetables to keep them from ripening too quickly.
- Check regularly: Regularly check stored apples for spoilage. Remove any affected to prevent spread.
10. Enjoy Your Apples
Now that you’ve picked your apples, it’s time to enjoy them! Apples can be used in a variety of ways:
- Fresh eating: Enjoy them as a healthy snack.
- Baking: Use them in pies, crisps, and other baked goods.
- Cooking: Make applesauce and apple butter, or add them to savory dishes.
Preserving: Can or freeze apples for long-term storage.
Apple picking is a fun and fruitful activity that the whole family can enjoy. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to have a successful and enjoyable apple-picking experience.
Happy picking at Gaver Farm!
