Pesticide-free Apples in Vancouver Island Are Ready Now
It's that time of year again. The apple harvest season is upon us and if, like us, you have a plethora of fabulous, fresh apples all ripe and ready you might be wondering how to make the most of them.
If you've already filled your freezer with apple pies and apple sauce, filled your cupboard with bottles of homemade cider, apple juice and apple-cider vinegar, and still have more apples than you can currently eat, it's time to think about how best to store the rest.
Did you know that apples can easily be stored for five months or more, meaning you can secure your winter supply now! Also, some late varieties (such as Belle de Boskoop and
Golden Russett) produce their sugars off the tree, meaning they taste even better after some aging.
Even if you don't have your own apple trees, don't let the season's bounty pass you by! Fruit Forest Farm have fabulous offers on large quantities of apples in over 30 varieties, including baking varieties (Bramley and Gravenstien) and cider varieties (Bulmers Norman, Dabinett, Yarlington Mill and Kerr). We will even provide free delivery on orders of 50lbs or more, to anywhere within 50kms of the farm.
How Long Will Apples Store for?
In storage, apples can last up to six months with variables like the apple variety and the storage conditions impacting storage time.
We put together the table below to give you an indication of how long you'll be able to store apples for. Find out which varieties are classed as early, mid and late.
Storage Method | Early Season Varieties | Mid-Season Varieties | Late Season Varieties |
Fridge | 1-2 weeks | 2-4 months | 3-6 months |
Cool and Humid Room e.g garage | 1 week | 1-3 months | 2-5 months |
Room Temperature | 3 weeks | 2 months |
How Best To Store Apples
To help you enjoy these delicious apples for as long as possible, we've put together some tried-and-true tips on how to store apples properly. Whether you’re an experienced fruit preserver or just starting to explore the joys of local produce, these insights will ensure your apples stay crisp and fresh.
1. Choose the Right Apples
Before diving into storage tips, it’s important to start with the right varieties (later varieties store better), and good quality fruit (no holes or bruising). At Fruit Forest Farm, you'll find a range of apple varieties, each with its own flavor and texture. Whether you're picking up sweet Liberty or complex Belle de Boskoop, ensure you select apples that are firm and free from bruises or blemishes. Apples with any signs of damage should be eaten first, as they tend to spoil faster.
2. Keep Apples Cool
Apples thrive in a cool environment. Ideally, store your apples in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer, where the temperature is around -1 to 1°C (30-35°F). The cool temperature slows down the ripening process and helps retain their crispness. If you have a large quantity of apples, you might also consider using a dedicated fruit cellar or a cool basement area, provided it remains consistently cool.
3. Use Breathable Storage Containers
While it’s tempting to toss apples into any container, choosing the right type of storage can make a difference. Use cardboard boxes or containers with ventilation holes to allow air circulation. This helps prevent moisture build-up, which can lead to mold and rot. If you’re using regular plastic bags, make small holes to provide airflow.
4. Separate Apples from Other Fruits
Apples produce ethylene gas, which can hasten the ripening process of other fruits. To avoid premature ripening and spoilage, store apples separately from other fruits and vegetables. If you have a mixed fruit bowl, keep apples apart from bananas, pears, and tomatoes to maintain their freshness longer.
5. Check Apples Regularly
Even with the best storage practices, it's wise to check your apples regularly. Inspect them for any signs of spoilage such as soft spots, mold, or an off smell. Remove any affected apples immediately to prevent the spread of spoilage to the rest.
6. Consider Apple Preservation Techniques
For those who want to extend the apple season, consider apple preservation techniques such as freezing or making applesauce. Freezing apples is simple—just peel, core, and slice them, then place them in freezer bags. For applesauce, you can make a batch and freeze or can it in containers for a quick and delicious treat anytime.
7. Reap the Benefits of Local Produce
When you buy apples from Fruit Forest Farm, you’re not just getting exceptional quality—you’re also supporting sustainable farming practices and enjoying produce picked at its peak. By following these storage tips, you’ll be able to savour the taste of the Cowichan Valley apples for months to come.
Get Fresh, Local, Pesticide-Free Apples Now
Proper apple storage ensures that you can enjoy the crisp, juicy goodness of Fruit Forest Farm’s apples long after you bring them home. By keeping them cool, using breathable containers, and separating them from other fruits, you’ll be well on your way to maintaining apple freshness. Don’t forget to check them regularly and consider preserving them if you have a surplus. With these tips, you can make the most of your delicious local apples and enjoy a taste of the Cowichan Valley every day.
For more tips on local produce and to discover the best apple varieties, visit us at Fruit Forest Farm. We’re passionate about bringing you the freshest fruits from Vancouver Island, and we’re here to help you make the most of every bite.
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