Expert Tip # 5 Successful Apple Picking is All in the Timing

      Expert Tip #5: It’s All in the Timing

On a weekday morning you may very well be sharing the rows with hundreds of schoolchildren on a field trip. If you visit on a sunny October weekend, steel yourself for longer lines, particularly if you need to be transported by tractor to the orchard. 

If your orchard of choice is in “apple country” in your state, don’t be shocked if the traffic is crawling all the way to your destination. An orchard is a fall weekend destination (think Cape Cod in July) so if you go on a weekend, be flexible and patient. 

On Mondays, the trees may be picked bare from the busy weekend—and what is left is out of reach for your kiddos to twist and pull off themselves. If you can, make your visit during “off peak” days and times, you’ll be happy you did!

Tip for Planning Your Orchard Visit - Check with your orchard to know which apple varieties are being picked at the moment. Don’t even think of heading out unless you know a) they’re not temporarily closed to allow time for fruit to ripen and b) the variety you have your heart set on is in still season and still open for picking. 

Looking for a guide to help you plan your apple picking this fall?

New England Fall Events offers easy to follow guides, features, maps, and contact info for your local or vacation-area New England PYO apple orchards. 

Here are your quick links to the apple picking guides:

Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Rhode Island.

Find orchard markers and fall attraction maps for Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont.

We've got your guides to Hayrides, Corn Mazes, Food Festivals, and Fall Events guides for every New England State! Visit New England Fall Events for a full list of events and family activities happening this fall.