Tips for Apple Picking with Your Family

Apple picking season is upon us! Here in southern Ontario, the days are getting shorter, the mornings and evenings much cooler and the leaves are slowly changing colour. I love this time of the year. Especially after that summer full of weird weather we just had.

Besides the visual signals of fall, my other favourite thing about this time of year is the tastiness. And I'm not just talking pumpkin spice lattes. Fall means an abundance of produce, including apples!

Apple picking is a perfect family fall activity! If you're taking a trip to the orchard this season, these tips for apple picking will help ensure you get the most out of your basket and experience, all while making lasting memories with your family.

Tips for Apple Picking

Check the weather before you go.

The weather can be all over the place in the fall and the last thing you want is to be over or under dressed. Dressing in layers is best - it's easier to take off a layer than put on one you don't have. If it is a warmer day, don't forget the hats and sunscreen!

Call or check the website before visiting.

Certain varieties are only available at certain times of the year, so make sure to call ahead or check the website if you are looking for a specific type.

Leave the pets at home.

Most orchards and farms do not allow pets for health and safety reasons. So please, do your pet a favour and leave them at home. Don't ever leave them in the car as they can overheat quickly, even in the fall.

Avoid the crowds.

Certain times of the season will be busier than others, such as the weekends and holidays. School fall field trips will also be in full swing. If time allows, visit on a week day morning to have a more peaceful experience and your pick of the orchard.

Know the terrain.

Orchards are often bumpy, and not stroller friendly. If your babe is not yet walking, leave the stroller at home and opt for a baby carrier instead. For older kids, bring a wagon. The wagon can serve two purposes - to carry your apples and your babe when their legs are tired.

Discuss the rules beforehand.

Before you begin, make sure to go over both the orchard rules and your own rules with your kids. Make sure they know how to tell a good apple from a bad one, and not to pick the ones from the ground or those with holes.

Know what to look for.

Look for firm, crisp, well-coloured apples that are free of blemishes, wrinkles and bruises.

Don't mind the insects.

Bees are a main pollinator of fruit trees, including apples. If you are allergic, ensure that you are properly prepared, especially if that means being armed with an epipen.

Be prepared to get a workout.

Apples are usually picked and sold in bushel and half bushel quantities. A half a bushel of apples weighs around 20 pounds. It's a workout! If your children are too small to reach the apples, you will also constantly be bending and lifting to pick them up and put them down.

Make it a day trip.

Pack a picnic lunch for after your apple picking experience. Most orchards will also offer other family activities aside from apple picking, such as hayrides, so plan some extra time to take advantage of these as well.

And the most importantantly,

Have fun!

Enjoy making memories with your family during this fun fall family activity.

Looking for a tasty recipe to make with all of those apples? Check these out:
The Perfect Crisp
Fruit Filled Adult Pop Tarts
Apple Cinnamon Muffins