Studies show that everyone loves apple-picking. 

That’s not true, but a lot of people do. Apple picking is one of the quintessential fall activities. There’s nothing quite like heading to an orchard on a crisp autumn day, basket in hand, ready to pluck the season’s best apples right from the tree. 

Of course you need to lug all of your apples back, but that’s part of the deal. Before you head out for this classic experience, it’s a good idea to have a plan, and we’ve laid it out for you. 

Choose the Right Orchard

Not all apple orchards are the same, so it’s worth doing a little research before deciding where to go. 

For starters, make sure there are enough apples. For real. When the weather is unseasonably warm, as it has been in these parts, there’s not much to harvest. 

Some orchards offer only a few varieties of apples, while others boast dozens. If you have a favorite apple, make sure the orchard has that variety in season. Also, check to see if the orchard offers additional activities, like hayrides, corn mazes, or a petting zoo, especially if you’re bringing kids along.

Orchards often have websites with information about what varieties are ripe and ready for picking, so you can plan your visit for the ideal time. Be sure to call ahead or check their social media for updates on weather conditions or any changes to picking schedules.

Know Your Apple Varieties

People can be picky apple-pickers, because we all have our own preferences. 

Different apples are great for different purposes. Some are better for baking, while others are perfect for eating right off the tree. Here are a few popular varieties and what they’re best used for:

• Honeycrisp: A crisp, sweet apple that’s perfect for snacking.
• Granny Smith: A tart apple that’s ideal for baking, especially in pies.
• Gala: A sweet and mild apple that’s great for both eating fresh and cooking.
• Fuji: Known for its sweetness and firm texture, great for snacking or salads.

If you’re planning to make pies, applesauce, or apple butter, mix and match varieties to get a balance of flavors and textures.

Dress Appropriately

Apple-picking can be a workout, and who knows, maybe your local gym will make a class out of it. 

It’s important to dress appropriately. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll likely be walking on uneven ground. Consider layers since fall weather can change quickly from cool mornings to warmer afternoons. Bringing gloves can also be handy for reaching into trees with thicker branches.

And don’t forget sunscreen and a hat—just because it’s fall doesn’t mean the sun isn’t strong.

🚨 SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT 🚨

And just like that, we’re a few weeks into fall. Did someone say Thanksgiving? I heard it, and with that, we present our Fall Fiesta Gift Basket, built in a seasonal basket, accented with fall leaves and featuring Crunchmaster crackers, pumpkin butter, Anna’s ginger cookies, Sally’s nuts, mulling spices, sweet potato chips, and more. 

Hey, it’s never too early to start planning your Thanksgiving gifts. 

About BasketWorks

BasketWorks is a woman-owned gift basket company located in the north suburbs of Chicago (specifically Northbrook, IL) since 1997. We are proud to offer a variety of gifts and gift baskets appropriate for all occasions. Each of our packages is built to order, allowing for customization at no additional cost to our clients. Contact us today!

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