How Do You Like Dem Apples?
It’s hard to believe, but it won’t be long before the leaves start to turn and there's a crispness in the air.
This is a sure sign that apple season has arrived in North Carolina.
One of the most delightful ways to experience the magic of apple picking is by visiting a local orchard. Not only does this activity provide a fun and educational outing for families, but it also offers an opportunity to create lasting memories while indulging in the simple pleasure of harvesting fresh, juicy apples directly from the trees.
The team at Visit NC Farms has put together a perfect apple picking itinerary depending on whether you visit the mountains or the coast, whether you want to taste pies or wines, and whether you want hayrides or other experiences, there’s a farm and an orchard ready for you.
Why Choose Apple Picking?
Engaging Learning Experience
Apple picking isn't just about gathering fruits; it's a chance for children to learn about the lifecycle of apples, the importance of agriculture, and the hard work that goes into producing the food we enjoy. It's a hands-on educational experience that can spark curiosity and discussions about nature, farming, and healthy eating.
Quality Family Time
In today's fast-paced world, finding quality time to spend together as a family can be a challenge. Apple picking offers an opportunity to bond and enjoy each other's company while sharing in a shared activity. From choosing the best apples to picking and tasting them right off the tree, every moment becomes a cherished memory.
Freshness and Flavor
There's an unmatched freshness and flavor to apples picked directly from the tree. When you visit a local NC orchard, you're ensuring that the apples you take home are at the peak of their ripeness. The taste of a freshly picked apple is a world apart from store-bought ones that might have spent days in transit.
Variety of Apples
Local orchards often offer a wide variety of apple types to choose from. Whether you're a fan of the tartness of Granny Smith, the sweet crunch of Honeycrisp, or the versatility of Gala apples, you can handpick your favorites and even experiment with trying new varieties.
Supporting Local Agriculture
Visiting local orchards for apple picking is a fantastic way to support local farmers and contribute to the community's economy. Your visit directly supports the hard work and dedication of these farmers, ensuring that they can continue to provide fresh, sustainable produce.
Tips for a Successful Apple Picking Adventure
“Mom, thanks for taking me to the farm!” - Young girl, definitely said that
Check Orchard Availability
Before you head out, check the Visit NC Farms App (Apple / Android). to find some of the most unique farms and orchards in our state. Often they’ll have special events to compliment the beautiful views and fresh apples.
Dress Comfortably
Apple picking can be a bit messy, so it's best to wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes. Don't forget sunscreen and hats, especially on sunny days.
Bring Containers
Most orchards provide bags or containers for picking, but bringing your own containers, like baskets or reusable bags, can be helpful and eco-friendly.
Respect the Environment
Teach your children to respect the orchard's rules, such as where you can and cannot go, and how to handle the apple trees gently. Make it as possible for our local farmers to keep producing scintillating apples for the country to enjoy.
Apple picking at local North Carolina farms and orchards is a delightful and rewarding experience for families. It offers an engaging educational opportunity, quality family time, fresh and flavorful apples, a variety of apple types to choose from, and the chance to support local agriculture. So, gather your loved ones, head to a nearby orchard, and enjoy the simple pleasures of autumn through the joy of apple picking.
Apple Varieties to Choose From
North Carolina's diverse climate allows for the cultivation of a variety of apple types. Here are some commonly grown apple varieties in North Carolina, along with their unique characteristics:
Honeycrisp
Unique Traits: Honeycrisp apples are renowned for their explosive crispness and juicy texture. They have a sweet-tart flavor with hints of honey, making them incredibly popular for fresh eating.
Best Use: Enjoyed as a fresh snack, these apples are also great for salads and desserts due to their refreshing taste and texture.
Gala
Unique Traits: Galas are known for their thin skin, making them easy to bite into. They have a sweet flavor with a hint of vanilla, making them a favorite among kids and adults alike.
Best Use: Galas are perfect for eating out-of-hand, adding to lunchboxes, and using in recipes that call for a sweeter apple.
Granny Smith
Unique Traits: With their bright green color and tart flavor, Granny Smith apples stand out. They offer a distinct crispness and are often used for both sweet and savory dishes.
Best Use: Granny Smiths are excellent for baking into pies, tarts, and crisps, as well as for adding a tangy crunch to salads.
Fuji
Unique Traits: Fuji apples are known for their striking red and yellow skin. They have a sweet, slightly floral taste and a dense, crunchy texture.
Best Use: These apples are great for snacking, adding to fruit salads, and even making applesauce due to their balanced flavor.
Pink Lady
Unique Traits: Cripps Pink apples are recognizable by their pinkish-red skin. They offer a sweet-tart flavor and a firm, crunchy texture.
Best Use: Pink Ladies are versatile and can be enjoyed fresh, sliced into salads, or used in cooking and baking.
Stayman Winesap
Unique Traits: Stayman Winesap apples have a unique wine-like flavor with a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. They are known for their deep red color and distinctive aroma.
Best Use: These apples are excellent for cider-making, baking into pies, and adding complexity to sauces and chutneys.
Arkansas Black
Unique Traits: Arkansas Black apples are strikingly dark in color and have a firm texture. Their flavor evolves as they're stored, transitioning from tart to a rich, sweet taste.
Best Use: These apples are often used for baking due to their ability to hold their shape and develop complex flavors when cooked.
Jonagold
Unique Traits: Jonagold apples are a cross between Jonathan and Golden Delicious varieties. They have a well-balanced sweet-tart flavor and a crisp texture.
Best Use: Jonagolds are versatile apples that can be used in salads, baking, applesauce, and fresh eating.
Each of these apple varieties brings its own unique flavor, texture, and characteristics to the table. Whether you're looking for a sweet snacking apple, a tart addition to a recipe, or something in between, North Carolina's diverse apple offerings have you covered.
