Apple picking season is a wonderful time of year for apple tree owners. Knowing when to pick your apples can help maximize the number of apples you get from your tree, as well as make sure they are perfectly ripe. The timing of apple picking can depend on the variety of apple tree that you have, as well as the size of the apples and the local climate. Here are some tips on when to pick apples off your tree.
Sun Exposure
Where your tree is situated can have an impact on when the apples are ripe. If your tree is in a sunny spot, the apples are likely to ripen a little earlier. It may be possible to pick the apples earlier than expected if you notice that they are becoming slightly softer and more mature in colour.
Apple Varieties
Different varieties of apples ripen at different times of year. Early in the season, you may be able to pick Golden Delicious apples by late August or early September. Later in the season you may be able to pick other more heat tolerant varieties, such as Jonagold, Gala and Rome. Knowing when your particular variety of apple will ripen is important so you can plan to pick them at the optimal time.
Size Matters
The size of the apples can also have an effect on when they are ripe enough to pick. Larger apples will take longer to mature than smaller ones. You should wait for the apples to reach the full size before picking them if possible.
Tree Inspection
Inspect your tree to see which apples are ripe enough to pick. You can tell the apples are ready to be picked when they come off the branch with a little bit of effort. Once you pick an apple, inspect the other apples on your tree and wait a few days before picking more. This will help you identify any diseased or damaged apples and give the other apples time to ripen.
Climate Considerations
Pay attention to the weather conditions in your area. A warm, dry season can cause the apples to ripen a lot sooner than usual. If you live in a cold climate, the apples may take longer to ripen, so you should wait until they are properly mature before picking them.
Watch for Pests
Be on the lookout for any pests or insects that may be damaging your apple tree. If there are any signs of infestation, pick the apples as soon as you can to prevent further damage. Having a regular pest check-up is recommended even in seasons when no pests are present.
Scouting Your Area
If you can, take a look at apple trees in your area to assess how ripe the fruit is. This can help you get a better idea of when to pick the apples from your own tree.
Testing for Ripeness
To ensure your apples are ripe, start by tasting one. If it’s sweet and flavourful, it’s ready to pick. You can also check the colour of the apple and the area near the stem to see if it is changing colour. The apples should be firm and should come off the tree with a gentle pull.
Cultural Practices
Different apple tree owners may have different cultural practices when it comes to apple picking. Some owners may wait until the apples begin to fall off the tree, while others may wait until the apples are full mature. Consider your cultural practices and traditions when deciding when to pick your apples.
Harvest Care
When you’re picking apples, be careful not to bruise them in the process. Collect the apples gently, using a basket or bucket, and place them in a cool, dry place until you are ready to use them. This will help ensure they stay in good condition until you’re ready to eat them.
Post-Harvest Care
After you have harvested your apples, it is important to store them correctly. Apples should be kept in a cool, dry place and can be stored for several months if necessary. To ensure the apples last for as long as possible, check them periodically for any signs of bruising or damage.
Sorting
When sorting through your apples, look for any that are bruised, damaged or beginning to rot. These should be removed immediately to prevent any contamination of the rest of your apples. If you find any bad apples, compost them and use them as fertilizer for your tree.
Meal Preparation
Before using your apples, you should clean and prepare them for meals. Apples can be sliced, diced or cut into wedges, depending on how you plan to use them. This is especially important if you are planning to eat them raw or if you will be baking with them.
Pruning
In order to have a successful apple picking season, you need to prune your tree the right way throughout the year. Proper pruning encourages strong, healthy growth and can prevent over-bearing. Pruning can be done at any time of the year, but it is most important during the dormant season in late winter/early spring.
