The optimal time to harvest apples from a tree depends on the variety. Most apple varieties take around two months to reach maturity and should be harvested when juicy and sweet. Ideally, apples should be picked firm and fully formed. When they start to separate from their stems, they are ready to be harvested. Apples can be picked off the tree using a hand basket or picker pole. If harvesting with the hand basket, gently shake the apple off the branch and carefully place it in the basket. Apples should not be pulled off the branch or otherwise damaged, or else, the entire apple tree may suffer in quality and yield.
After harvest, apples should be inspected for bruises, splits, cracks, or signs of disease or infestation. Apples that are affected can be discarded, while good quality apples can be washed and sorted according to size, color and taste. Apples that are slightly immature at harvest can be left to ripen off the tree in a cool and dry location away from direct sunlight. Storing apples in a moist, air-tight container is important for keeping the quality of the apples for several weeks.
Tools for Harvesting Apples
Once apples are ready to be harvested off the tree, the appropriate tools should be used. A long-handled picker pole is ideal for reaching the apples at the top of the tree. The pole can be hooked to the apple and the fruit can be gently pulled off with a twist and a pull. Hand baskets are also useful for picking and can be placed under the apple for ease. Bags can be tied to the tree or worn around the neck to collect apples and protect them from dirt.
Best Conditions for Harvesting Apples
The best conditions to harvest apples are during sunny and dry weather. Picking apples in wet weather damages them quickly and greatly reduces their shelf-life. If raining, use a tarp or pick during brief breaks in the rainfall. Apples should be picked and stored as soon as possible to prevent decay and disease.
Risks of Harvesting Apples
Harvesting apples can be dangerous if not done properly. To avoid any potential hazards, the area underneath the tree should be cleared of potential hazards such as rocks, sticks, or leaves before harvest. Ladders should never be used to pick apples and protective headgear is recommended if you need to reach higher in the tree. Be mindful of the twisting and turning needed to pick apples and always use both hands for stability.
Sorting and Grading Apples
Once harvested, apples can be sorted and graded according to size, shape, color, and external blemishes. Apples are generally graded by size, with Grade A being the largest. Apples needed for processing may be a bit smaller than usual, while apples sold at the grocery store require a large, attractive exterior. Knowing different size and grade guidelines will help farmers determine the right apples for each of their markets.
Harvesting Time-Frames
The right time to harvest apples varies among different cultivars. Generally, harvest season will begin in August and run through October, depending on the type of apples and tree variety. Most apples need two months to reach maturity and will be judged according to their taste and texture. Apples should never be harvested too early, as this will reduce their shelf-life and potential value.
Harvesting for Storage
To maximize the shelf-life of apples, fruits should be harvested and stored as soon as possible after harvest. Storage conditions are extremely important for apples, and temperature, humidity, and airflow should all be carefully controlled. Apples should be stored in shallow trays lined with newspaper or straw and placed away from direct sunlight. Inspect fruits regularly to remove any rotten or decaying fruits that can spread disease.
Harvesting During Pest Infestations
When harvesting apples, farmers should look out for any signs of pest infestations, such as black mold, spider mites, or whiteflies. Affected fruits should be removed to protect other apples and the overall tree health. Organic insecticides can also be used to prevent insect invasions, as well as manual preventing techniques, such as traps, dusting powders and mowing.
Using Chemical Fruit Thinning
Some apple trees may need to be thinned so that the apples can reach their full size. Chemical fruit thinning can be used to achieve this and should be applied when the apples have reached 1/3 of their full size. Chemical thinning should be done with caution and in accordance with Environmental Protection Agency guideline and regulations. Thinned apples must be properly disposed of and not consumed.
