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Homes & Gardens
Homes & Gardens
Drew Swainston

How to know when apples are ready to pick – experts swear by these 3 signs

A gardener's hand picking ripe red apples.

Apple picking is a hugely popular pastime globally, but it is a task that needs to be done at the perfect time. You want to make sure the apples you are harvesting are firm, juicy, and delicious, not mealy, mushy, or soft. So, how do you know when apples are ready to pick?

During my years as a professional gardener, I helped maintain and pick many fruit trees, including an orchard with around a hundred apple trees. These apples were harvested, stored, and used in the kitchens or sold to visitors. The apples needed to be picked at the ideal time, not only for the best taste but also so they could be stored for the longest possible period.

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