U-pick is for everyone!

When is apple harvest season? As organic apple growers, we know this season inside and out! We’ve perfected the timing at Chelan Ranch to ensure every apple reaches peak flavor and quality.

With over 100 acres of organic apples, we’ve developed a wealth of apple knowledge that we’re excited to share with fellow gardeners and fruit lovers. Whether tending a backyard tree or managing an orchard, we have the tips to ensure your harvest is as exceptional as ours!

Sweetango apples before harvest.

Apple harvest season is exciting, kicking off from late summer to early fall—typically spanning August through October across most U.S. regions. The timing depends on the variety you’re growing and your local climate:

• Early Harvest Apples: Varieties like the crisp and tangy ‘Sweetango’ are among the first to ripen, ready for picking in August.
• Mid-Season Apples: Fan favorites like the ever-popular ‘Honeycrisp’ hit their peak in September, offering the perfect balance of sweet and tart.
• Late Harvest Apples: Sturdy varieties such as ‘Fuji’, ‘Granny Smith’, and the beloved ‘Pink Lady’ hold out until October (and sometimes even later), giving you an extended window to enjoy their incredible flavors.

Whether you’re looking for early, mid, or late-season apples, there’s something delicious to harvest throughout the fall!

How to Tell When Apples Are Ready to Pick

Honeycrisp apples with yellow background color.

Here are a few tips to help you determine the perfect time to pick your apples:

1. Color: Based on the variety, look for vibrant, full coloring. The background color should be yellow rather than green.
2. Firmness: Gently squeeze the apple. It should be firm but not too hard.
3. Easy Detachment: Twist the apple and gently lift it. If it comes off easily, it’s ready.
4. Taste Test: When in doubt, take a bite! Ripe apples will have a nice balance of sweetness and tartness with definite crunchiness.

Caring for Your Harvest

Apples do well in the Crisper drawer of the refrigerator.

Store your apple harvest fresh for months in a cool, dark place—think refrigerators or root cellars. Keeping them at a crisp 32°F helps preserve their texture and flavor. Be sure to regularly check your stash and remove any apples starting to show signs of rot to keep the rest of your haul fresh and delicious!

High-county organic Honeycrisps have the best flavor and quality!

Harvest season is the perfect time to savor apples at their peak or stock up for the colder months ahead. Whether gathering fruit from your trees or enjoying a day at Chelan Ranch’s U-pick orchard, knowing when to harvest ensures you get the best flavor and most extended storage life from your apples!