It’s apple picking season on the Central Coast, and we have tips to make the most of it. Plus, we’ll tell you where to pick them!
Apple picking is not just about filling your basket with fruit—it’s about enjoying the entire experience. Fall is a beautiful time to walk through an orchard, appreciating the beauty of the trees. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to pack a picnic lunch and spend time with the kid outdoors. And because apples are one of the easiest fruits to pick, it’s a perfect activity for littles.
Whether you are a seasoned apple picker or a beginner, having some insider knowledge is helpful to make your apple-picking experience more fruitful.
Preparation is Key
Before embarking on your outing, check the orchard’s website or call ahead to confirm their opening hours and any specific guidelines or restrictions they may have.
Timing is everything
Different apple varieties ripen at various times during the fall season. Most farm websites have a variety and picking dates available.
Dress Appropriately
Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely with sturdy shoes or boots, as orchards can be muddy or uneven. And don’t forget to bring sunscreen and a hat to protect everyone from the sun.
Bring the Right Equipment
While most orchards provide bags or baskets for apple picking, bringing your own is always a good idea. Choose a bag or basket with a wide opening and sturdy handles to ensure it can hold a significant number of apples without tearing or breaking. Bring a pair of pruning shears or a small knife to cut hard-to-reach apples from higher branches.
Selecting the Perfect Apple
When selecting apples, look for firm and free from bruises or blemishes. Apples should have a vibrant color and a fresh fragrance. The color can be anything from dark green to yellow, pink, orange, bright red, dark red, or even a combination. Don’t hesitate to ask the orchard staff for advice on the best apples for different purposes.
To pick from the tree, roll the apple upwards off the branch and give a little twist; don’t pull straight away from the tree. If two apples are joined at the top, both will come away simultaneously. Don’t shake the trees or branches. Once picked, don’t throw the apples into the baskets, place them in gently, or they will bruise and go bad more quickly.
Preserving and Enjoying Your Apples
Once you’ve picked your apples, storing them properly to maintain their freshness is important. Don’t wash apples until just before using them to prevent spoilage. Keep them in a cool, dark place to extend their shelf life. For apples you can’t eat within a week, applesauce, apple butter, apple cobbler, and apple jelly are all easy to make.
Here’s our easiest applesauce recipe to use up the rest of your crop:
- 4 apples - peeled, cored and chopped
- ¾ cup water
- ¼ cup white sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Combine apples, water, sugar, and cinnamon in a saucepan; cover and cook over medium heat until apples are soft, about 15 to 20 minutes.
Allow apple mixture to cool, then mash with a fork or potato masher until it is the consistency you like.