Getting apples from the top of a tree may seem like a daunting task. Fortunately, there’s an easier way to do it if you know what tools and techniques to use. Here’s how to get apples from the top of a tree:
1. Ensure you have the right tools and supplies. You’ll need a sturdy ladder, a tree pruner or pole saw, a canvas bag, and a pair of gloves.
2. Position the ladder so it’s stable and will reach the branches of the tree with the apples. Make sure to angle it away from the tree trunk to reduce the risk of toppling over.
3. Use the pruner or pole saw to cut off the branches with the apples. Once you have cut the branches, bring the ladder closer and start picking the apples.
4. Place the apples in the canvas bag and lower it to the ground. Once you’ve collected the required amount, secure the top of the bag with a rope or twine.
5. Remove the ladder and store it in a safe place. Make sure to clean the ladder and tree pruner before putting them away.
6. Wipe down the trunk of the tree with a damp cloth to remove any sap and other debris.
7. Wash your hands carefully after you have finished harvesting the apples.
Preparing for the Harvest
Before harvesting the apples, it’s important to make sure you have the right supplies on hand. This includes a ladder that’s strong enough to support your weight, a pruner or pole saw to cut the branches with the apples, a canvas bag for collecting the apples, and gloves to protect your hands. Taking the time to gather these supplies beforehand will make the process much easier.
You also need to inspect the tree carefully to determine the best possible angle for the ladder. The ladder should be positioned at least three metres away from the trunk of the tree and angled away from it. This will help prevent the ladder from toppling over or damaging the tree while you are harvesting the apples.
It’s essential to pick the right ladder for the job. Choose a ladder that has good stability and is designed for the type of tree you plan to harvest the apples from. For example, if the tree is very tall, then a stepladder might not be the best option and an extension ladder may be required.
Finally, make sure you are using the right protective gear while harvesting the apples. This includes a pair of work gloves, a hat, and protective eyewear to protect your eyes from any debris that may be kicked up by the pruner or pole saw.
Harvesting the Apples
Once you have gathered all the necessary supplies and positioned the ladder in the right spot, you can begin harvesting the apples. Start by using the pruner or pole saw to carefully cut off the branches with the apples. Make sure to keep your hands away from the blade at all times.
After you have cut the branches, bring the ladder closer and start picking the apples carefully. Place them in the canvas bag, and use the rope or twine to secure the top. Once you have collected the required amount, remove the ladder and store it in a safe place away from the elements.
When harvesting the apples, be mindful of the tree’s trunk. Bark can be easily damaged by the ladder, so avoid contact with the trunk as much as possible. Wipe down the trunk of the tree with a damp cloth to remove any sap and other debris when you are finished.
Finally, always make sure to wash your hands after picking the apples. This will help reduce the risk of introducing harmful bacteria and other contaminants to your home.
Storing the Apples
Once you have harvested the apples, it’s important to store them properly to prevent them from going bad. Ideally, the apples should be kept at a temperature of between 46-50 degrees Fahrenheit and in an area with limited exposure to light.
Ideally, the apples should be stored in a cool, dry place such as a basement, garage, or shed. If you don’t have such a place available, a refrigerator is a good place to store them. However, make sure to keep the apples away from other food items to prevent cross contamination.
Before storing the apples, make sure to wash them thoroughly. This helps remove any debris, pesticides, and bacteria that may be present.
Keep in mind that not all apples are suitable for long term storage. Some varieties tend to go bad quickly, while others last much longer. While most apples will stay fresh for up to two weeks, some varieties can remain fresh for several months.
Preserving the Apples
If you want to keep the apples for a longer period of time, there are several techniques you can use. For instance, you can dry the apples by slicing them and then baking them in a low-temperature oven. This creates a dried apple that can last up to several months without spoiling.
You can also preserve the apples by canning or freezing them. Canning is a great way to create shelf-stable applesauce, apple butter, and other preserves. Freezing is a good option for preserving apples in their raw form. Either way, the process involves a lot of steps and it’s important to follow them carefully.
It’s also important to note that not all apples are suitable for preserving. Some varieties simply don’t hold up well to the process, so always make sure to pick the right apples for the job.
Lastly, make sure to label your preserved apples with the date, variety, and the method you used to preserve them. This will help you keep track of which apples you have stored and how long they’ve been stored for.
Caring For the Tree
Finally, it’s important to remember that the tree you harvested the apples from needs to be taken care of. It’s essential to inspect the tree regularly for signs of disease or pest damage. If you notice any issues, address them promptly to prevent them from getting worse.
You should also prune the tree regularly to encourage healthy growth and development. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring, right before the tree’s buds start to open. This will help ensure that the tree is producing healthy, high-quality apples in the future.
Finally, fertilize the tree every spring. Use a fertilizer specifically designed for apple trees and follow the instructions on the label carefully. This will help ensure that the tree can continue to produce a good harvest of apples for years to come.
