Apples are ready to pick primarily in late summer to autumn, depending on the variety and location. Most apple varieties for home gardeners are harvested between mid-September and before Halloween, with early varieties ripening from mid-August and late varieties up to October or November. Key indicators of readiness include the apple coming off easily when twisted or tilted in the hand, a change in color (often from green to yellowish or red), and brown apple seeds inside. The exact timing also depends on weather conditions and specific apple varieties.
Apple Ripening Seasons
- Early varieties: mid-August to early September (e.g., Beacon, Paula Red, Zestar!)
- Mid-season varieties: mid or late September (e.g., Honeycrisp, Red Baron)
- Late varieties: late September to October or November (e.g., Honeygold, Haralson, D’Arcy Spice)
How to Tell Apples Are Ready
- The apple should come off the tree easily with a slight twist or tilt.
- Color changes: Most apples lose their initial green and turn yellowish or develop a red blush.
- Internal seed color: Brown seeds indicate ripeness; green seeds mean unripe.
- Taste tests: Ripe apples are sweet and not starchy or floury.
Recommendations
- Avoid waiting for frost to harvest, as overripe apples may rot or fall.
- Apples on the outside and top of the tree usually ripen faster than those inside.
- Check local climate and variety-specific ripening times for best results.
In summary, apples are typically ready to pick from mid-August through October or November, and the best way to confirm is by physical tests and observing color changes specific to each variety.
