Apple picking is a cherished family-friendly activity, especially during the crisp fall months from late August to September’s end. It offers an excellent opportunity to bask in the outdoors, learn about diverse apple varieties, and create delightful memories with your loved ones. Here’s a comprehensive guide on planning and relishing a family outing for apple picking.
Choose a Location and Time
- Research Orchards: The initial step involves finding a nearby apple orchard that allows visitors to pick their own apples. Utilize online resources like PickYourOwn.org or BC Tree Fruit Production Guide to locate orchards based on province, region, or preferred apple variety. Check the orchards’ websites or social media pages for opening hours, pricing details, and apple availability.
- Optimal Timing: Plan your apple-picking adventure during the morning or early afternoon when the weather is cooler, and the sun isn’t too harsh. Steer clear of rainy days to avoid muddy grounds and wet, bruised apples. Additionally, consider avoiding weekends and holidays to escape the crowds and ensure a bountiful selection of apples.
Prepare for the Outing
Before embarking on your orchard journey, ensure that you and your family are adequately prepared.
- Dress Appropriately: Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate attire and shoes that can handle a bit of dirt. Consider dressing in layers to accommodate potential temperature changes. Don a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection.
- Bring Essential Gear: Arm yourself with reusable bags or baskets for collecting apples. Some orchards may provide them, but it’s wise to check in advance. Consider bringing a wagon or stroller for easy transport, especially if you have young children or plan to pick a substantial quantity.
- Pack Snacks and Drinks: Keep your family energized and hydrated with snacks and drinks. You might also consider bringing a picnic lunch or identifying nearby eateries for a post-picking meal. While some orchards offer on-site food and beverages, it’s prudent to check in advance or bring your provisions.
- Bring Payment Options: Ensure you have cash or a debit/credit card to pay for your apple haul. While some orchards may only accept cash, others may offer electronic payment methods. Carry some extra cash for purchasing additional products like apple cider, pies, or honey.
Pick and Enjoy Your Apples
Upon reaching the orchard, it’s time to dive into the joy of picking and relishing your apples. Here’s how to make the most of the experience:
- Follow Orchard Guidelines: Adhere to the rules and instructions provided by orchard staff. They will guide you to the designated picking areas, highlight recommended varieties, and offer insights on proper picking techniques and apple care.
- Selecting Apples: Opt for apples that are firm, smooth, and free from blemishes, cuts, or insect damage. The color will vary depending on the variety, but aim for bright and even hues. Steer clear of green, yellow, or dull apples, as they may indicate underripeness or overripeness.
- Picking Technique: Gently twist and pull the apple from the stem, avoiding yanking or shaking, which can harm the tree or cause other apples to fall. Handle the apples with care, placing them gently in your bag or basket to prevent bruising.
- Tasting in Moderation: It’s tempting to indulge in the sweetness of freshly picked apples, but refrain from excessive tasting to avoid a stomach ache. Reserve some appetite for other apple products you may purchase or make later.
- Capture the Moments: Enjoy the outing with your family, savor the experience, and capture memories with photographs. Take the opportunity to learn about different apple varieties from orchard staff or informational signs. Popular varieties in BC and Ontario include Royal Gala, Ambrosia, McIntosh, Red Delicious, and Spartan123, each suitable for various culinary uses.
After the Outing
Once you’ve completed your apple-picking adventure, a few steps remain to conclude the experience.
- Weigh and Pay: Head to the orchard’s weighing station to determine the weight of your apples and settle the bill. Take the opportunity to explore the farm market or gift shop for additional apple-based products or souvenirs.
- Post-Picking Activities: Enjoy a picnic lunch on-site or visit a nearby restaurant or cafe for a satisfying meal.
- At-Home Handling: Upon returning home, store your apples in a cool, dark place like a basement or refrigerator. Consider washing, peeling, coring, and slicing apples for freezing or immediate use. Explore recipes such as apple pie, apple crisp, apple sauce, apple butter, or apple cider. Share your apple bounty with friends, neighbors, or relatives.
In conclusion, apple picking is an enjoyable and rewarding family activity, particularly during the fall season. By adhering to these tips, you can optimize your experience, create lasting memories, and relish the bounty of the season with your loved ones. Happy picking!
