Picking Responsibly: How to be a Sustainable Apple Picker 

Crisp autumn air, colorful leaves, and the sweet scent of ripe apples… that means it’s apple picking season! As you head to the orchard, keep these simple tips in mind for a sustainable and enjoyable experience that respects both the land and the trees. 

Tips for Picking Responsibly at U-Pick

• Handle with Care: Treat the apples gently to avoid bruising them. Don’t pull or yank on the fruit; instead, gently lift up and pluck from the tree. The apple should pull off easily! 
• Only Pick What You Need: It’s tempting to fill your bag to the brim, but be mindful about how many apples you’ll actually use.
• Avoid Overreaching: Don’t climb trees to reach high branches, as this can damage the tree and put you at risk of injury.
• Respect the Rules: There are specific guidelines for U-Pick events, such as designated areas or varieties. Follow these rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone!

Apple Waste, and How to Prevent It

Did you know that tons of apples go to waste in orchards across the country every year?  By picking responsibly and storing our apples correctly, we can all help reduce that waste. Here are some storage tips to get you started:

• Store in a Cool, Dark Place: Apples keep best in a cool, dark place like a refrigerator!
• Don’t Wash Until Ready to Use: Washing apples before storing them can increase the likelihood for spoilage.
• Preserve Excess Apples: If you have more apples than you can eat fresh, consider preserving them by canning, freezing, or making applesauce, cider, or pies.

What Happens to Dropped Apples?

If left on the ground, dropped apples will eventually rot and decompose. This process can enrich the soil, but it can also attract pests and contribute to disease, so we want to make sure that we do our best to pick responsibly to reduce waste the best we can!

By following these tips, you can help reduce apple waste and ensure a sustainable and enjoyable apple picking experience for everyone.