Apple Picking
Our Practices
Apples are the only crop on the farm that we do still spray with pesticides. Most of our spray program is targeted to control several fungus problems (read more about that here) that are common in the humid climate of the Hudson Valley. Most of the trees in our orchard are now 30-50 years old, and these older varieties of apples are more susceptible to fungal pressure. We are always seeking opportunities to reduce our pesticide use.
Picking Season
Apple picking begins in late August and continues through mid to late October.
CURRENTLY PICKING
Picking Tips
Because the stem of the apple has to be strong enough to hold the weight of the fruit, the best way to pick an apple is to lift and twist, turning the apple entirely upside down. This usually easily removes the fruit from the tree without disturbing the tree or the other apples. The more ripe the fruit, the easier it is to remove from the tree.
Price
There is no entry fee. You pay only for what you pick by the pound.
Apple Varieties
| Variety | Characteristics | Best Uses | Tips & Tricks | Harvest Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jonamac | Sweet to tart taste. Crisp bite. | Excellent for eating and sauce. | Late August - Early September | |
| Blondee | Clear yellow apple with a smooth skin. It's flavor is more sweet than tart. The firm skin does not bruise easily. | Excellent for eating and salads. It holds its shape well, so it is also good for baking. | This crisp apple will appeal to kids, a great way to encourage healthy snacking. | Late August - Early September |
| McIntosh | Sweet with a tart tang. Very juicy, tender white flesh. Aromatic flavor. | Excellent for eating and sauce. Good for salads and pies. | McIntosh's tender flesh cooks down quickly. Add a thickener if making a pie. | Late August - Mid September |
| Gala | Mild, sweet flavor. Crisp, creamy, yellow flesh. | Excellent for eating and salads. | Gala's size and mellow flavor make them a perfect choice for kids. | Late August - Mid September |
| Macoun | Extra sweet and aromatic flavor. Very juicy. Tender, snow white flesh. | Excellent for eating and salads. | Try serving Macoun slices with cheese for a great autumn dessert. | Mid-September - End of September |
| Ginger Gold | Sweet but mildly tart. Fine textured, crisp, cream colored flesh. | Excellent for eating and salads. | Ginger Gold is very slow to turn brown so it's an excellent choice for any fresh cut apple use. | Mid-September - Mid-October |
| Empire | A wonderful blend of sweet and tart. Very crisp, creamy white flesh. | Excellent for eating and salads. Good for sauce, baking, pies, and freezing. | Small Empires are great for school lunches. Kids love Empires' sweet-tart tast and super crunch texture. | Late September - October |
| Jonagold | Honey sweet with a hint of tartness. Crisp, creamy yellow flesh. | Excellent for eating, salads, sauce, and baking. Good for pies and freezing. | Jonagold makes great fried apples. Simply saute in a little butter and add a little cinnamon. No sugar needed! | Late September - October |
| Red Delicious | Sweet flavor. Crisp, yellow flesh. | Excellent for eating and salads. | Red Delicious apples look great for a long time, so they are the favorite for holiday centerpieces. | Late September - October |
| Stayman-Winesap | Sweet flavor. Yellow flesh with a spicy, vinous flavor. | Good for eating, salads, sauce, baking, and pies. | October | |
| Red Rome | Mildly tart flavor. Firm, greenish white flesh. | Excellent for sauce, baking, and pies. Good for salads and freezing. | Combine Red Romes with a sweet apple such as Red Delicious for a tasty apple sauce. | October |
Our Picking Schedule
We grow a variety of pick-your-own fruits and vegetables throughout the season. Take a look at our pick-your-own schedule to plan your next visit!
