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As the leaves start changing color and falling from the trees, and that autumn chill fills the air, plan a trip to your local apple orchard with your family!
Apple picking is a great family fall activity for those looking to enjoy a fun fall outing outdoors. Apples are one of the easiest fruits to pick, and most modern apple orchards have made it even easier with dwarf trees so children can pick their own apples! Apple picking season runs through the end of October, so you have a few weekends left to plan your day trip!
Farmers will know which trees bloomed and ripened first in their orchard, so don’t be hesitant to ask some questions! Apples come in a variety of colors, from green to yellow, pink to red and even orange! If you see any markings on the apple, leave it behind. Only choose apples that are firm, ripe and bruise-free. Each orchard harvests different types of apples, so ask the farmer which apples you’re picking and the characteristics to look for based on the types of apple they have available at their farm.
When it’s time to actually take the apple off the tree, keep these simple tips in mind! Don’t pull the apple directly off the branch, or shake the tree to free apples. Instead, gently roll the apple off the branch and place it into your bag or basket. Pulling the apple or shaking the tree can cause bruising, decreasing their shelf-life.
Apple orchards often have other fall activities aside from apple picking for you and your family to enjoy. From hay rides, to corn mazes and pumpkin patches to pony rides, it will definitely be a day full of memories. Don’t forget your camera!
Once you’ve have a full day of apple picking, put your apples in a cool location, like a garage or pantry, and don’t wash them until just before using them. When kept cool, fresh picked apples can last up to 2 full weeks!
Apples are a wonderful treat for kids and adults! They can be eaten in a variety of ways like fresh off the tree, cooked canned, frozen, baked into pies or crushed into sauces and jams!
And, the best part is that apples have many health benefits, including ones for your pearly whites! Biting and chewing an apple stimulates the production of saliva in your mouth, reducing tooth decay by lowering the levels of bacteria in your mouth! So, every time you and your children bite into an apple, you’re taking steps towards keeping a healthy smile!
So gather up your kids and plan an autumn adventure at a local apple orchard! Not only are you spending time with your family, you are teaching them to make healthy choices! Apples are a healthy snack option, as opposed to chips, cakes, cookies and candy bars. Kids will love taking the apples they’ve picked to school as a snack, and share their story of picking it themselves!
For a list of Long Island Apple Orchards, click here.
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