It can be a challenge to get apples off a tree if you don’t know how. Thankfully, it isn’t as difficult as it appears; with the proper methods and tools, anyone can easily harvest apples from their tree. Firstly, choose healthy apples for the harvest. Apples that are only beginning to turn ripe are easier to pick, but not too immature that they are rotten. Secondly, select the right time of day to pick the apples. Early mornings are best; warm temperatures cause the apples to stay juicy longer. Thirdly, a ladder is necessary to access the highest apples. Make sure to select a sturdy ladder that can reach the highest branches. Fourthly, equip yourself with the right tools. A pair of scissors or sharp pruning shears should do the trick; a toolbox can provide a handy place to keep them while climbing the ladder. Fifthly, bring a bucket or bag to put the apples in. Using a plastic bag can harm the apples; opt for a bucket or basket for the most secure and protective option. Sixthly, position the ladder to the desired tree, and start picking the apples. Gently pull each apple off the branch until all of the desired ones are picked. Lastly, carry the apples with care. The apples can bruise easily during transport, so handle them carefully and store them away from extreme heat and sunshine.
Harvesting
Harvesting apples off a tree is a straightforward process, with the primary considerations being the health and ripeness of the fruit. When harvesting, make sure to pick them with enough maturity to be good to eat, but not too ripe that it spoils quickly. Good apples to pick are slightly firm, shiny, and have a deep color. Avoid any apples with soft spots and discolorations, as these have gone beyond their optimal ripeness. Additionally, pay careful attention to the tree’s branches and leave any apples that are not quite ready. To pick the apples, place the ladder against the tree, and select one apple at a time. Use pruning shears to reach otherwise inaccessible apples and pull gently but firmly, using both hands.
Storing
Once picked from the tree, apples should be stored in a location that is free from exposure to sunlight, heat and humidity. For best results, store them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator, making sure to separate them from other types of fruit that may release ethylene gas, which can prematurely ripen and spoil the apples quickly. Furthermore, apples should be consumed within a week, as they will quickly lose their flavor and texture beyond that. Additionally, store apples away from strong-smelling produce that can add unwanted flavors and odors to them.
Cleaning
Before consuming the apples, it’s important to be sure that they are free from dirt and residue. To clean the apples, use a soft cloth, rubbing them gently in a circular motion. Alternatively, a piece of kitchen towel can be used to remove dirt and dust that may still be present on the fruit. For best results, use lukewarm water to rinse the apples, as this softens any dirt that may still be there. Be sure to rinse the apples thoroughly, and then pat them dry before consumption.
Choosing Tools
To successfully harvest apples from a tree, using the right tools is essential. When selecting tools, choose those that are durable and easy to use. Pruning shears are ideal, as their sharp straight blades help to cut and remove apples without causing damage to the tree. Additionally, it’s important to choose a sturdy and reliable ladder that can reach a height of up to 6 meters. In addition, a pair of gloves can prevent cuts and bruises, while also providing protection against any trees that may have thorns or spines. Finally, a bucket or basket can be used for convenient storage when gathering apples for transport.
Treating
In order to make sure that apples last longer and stay fresh, it’s important to take steps to treat them. One method of treatment is to purchase a coat that acts as a sealant and prevents any moisture from seeping out. Additionally, to keep the apples from ripening prematurely, store them in a cool, dark area such as a cellar for up to three months. Alternatively, apples can be stored in an oxygen-free container, where they can be stored for up to six months. Finally, it’s important to make sure that the apples remain dry, as any contact with moisture can cause them to spoil quickly.
Methods of Harvesting
Harvesting apples off a tree can be done in a variety of ways, depending on the situation and task at hand. For example, when harvesting soft apples, it may be better to use a tool or pruning shears to remove them rather than using a ladder. Alternatively, a stepladder may be more useful when gathering apples off a low-hanging branch. Additionally, climbing a tree, once mastered, can be a competitive way to harvest apples quickly, although this is not recommended for those who are not confident climbers. Finally, ladders of different shapes and sizes can be used, such as leaning ladders, picker’s ladders, and A-Frame ladders. A-Frame ladders are the most stable and are commonly used for harvesting apples.
Storage and Transport
Once harvested, apples can be stored and transported in various ways. For short distances, a plastic basket or containers are best, while a wooden box is preferable for longer journeys, as it provides more protection. Additionally, apples can be packed in parchment paper to protect them against bruises and discoloration. Furthermore, when storing apples, it is important to strictly adhere to the temperature and humidity requirements, as any deviation can cause them to rot quickly. For transportation over longer distances, a transport vehicle is essential, as this provides the best temperature control and air circulation. Finally, when desiring to export apples, it is also important to be aware of the regulations in place, as this can prevent apples from spoiling or discoloring due to mishandling.
