Harvesting late-season apples in September can be a rewarding experience, especially if you’ve nurtured your apple trees throughout the growing season. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you get the best out of your harvest.
Know Your Varieties
Before heading out to harvest, it’s essential to know which varieties of apples you have and their specific harvesting times. Each variety has its own ideal picking time, based on ripeness and flavour.
Check for Ripeness
To determine if your apples are ready for harvest, look for the following signs:
- Colour Change: The skin colour should be vibrant and characteristic of the variety.
- Ease of Picking: Gently twist the apple; if it comes off easily with a slight tug, it’s ready to be picked.
- Taste Test: If you’re unsure, try tasting one! A ripe apple will have a balanced sweetness and flavour.
Prepare Your Tools
Gather the necessary tools before you start harvesting:
- Picking Bags or Buckets: Use these to collect your apples without bruising them.
- Ladder (if needed): For taller trees, ensure you have a sturdy ladder to reach high branches safely.
- Pruning Shears: These can help cut any stubborn stems that don’t come off easily.
Harvesting Technique
When harvesting:
- Approach each apple gently to avoid bruising.
- Hold the apple in one hand and twist slightly while lifting upwards; this method helps detach it from the tree without damaging the fruit or branch.
- Place harvested apples carefully into your picking bag or bucket.
Inspect Your Harvest
After collecting your apples:
- Check for any damaged or bruised fruits. These should be used immediately as they won’t store well.
- Sort your apples by variety and quality; this will help when it comes time to store them.
Store Properly
To extend the life of your late-season apples:
- Store them in a cool, dark place with good ventilation.
- Wrap each apple individually in newspaper or tissue paper to prevent them from touching each other, which can lead to rot.
- Regularly check stored apples for any signs of spoilage.
By following these steps, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of late-season apples throughout September and beyond!
