Harvesting apples at the right time and handling them properly ensures the best flavor, longest storage life, and highest quality fruit. Whether you’re picking from your backyard trees or a small orchard, following the right techniques will help you enjoy crisp, delicious apples for weeks to come.
When to Harvest Apples
Apples are ready to pick when they are fully colored, firm, and come off the branch with a gentle twist. Ripe apples will detach easily — if you have to pull hard, they likely need more time on the tree.
Morning is the ideal time to harvest, as cooler temperatures help retain crispness and reduce early wilting or softening.
