As the crisp autumn air rolls in, there’s nothing quite as iconic as spending a day at the apple orchard. It’s a timeless fall tradition, whether you’re looking to bake fresh apple pies, make homemade cider, or simply enjoy the beauty of the season. However, as with any outing, there are a few etiquette tips to keep in mind to ensure that your experience is fun, respectful, and enjoyable for everyone.
In this guide, we’ll cover the do’s and don’ts of apple picking, so you can make the most of your day at the orchard while keeping it polite and responsible.
1. Call Ahead or Check the Orchard’s Website
Before heading out, make sure to call the orchard or check their website for hours of operation, rules, and any special instructions. Many orchards may require reservations or have specific COVID-19 safety protocols in place. This small step ensures that you’re prepared and that you won’t miss out on any important information about the varieties of apples available or special events.
Pro Tip: Check what apple varieties are in season to know what to expect and which apples to look for!
2. Dress Appropriately for the Occasion
Apple picking is a fun outdoor activity, so it’s best to dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes. While it might be tempting to dress up for those Instagram-worthy orchard shots, remember you’ll likely be walking through fields, sometimes muddy or uneven, and carrying bags of apples. Practical footwear, like boots or sneakers, will keep your feet comfortable all day long.
Pro Tip: Avoid wearing perfume or strong scents—bees and other insects are attracted to fragrances.
3. Respect the Trees and the Fruit
One of the most important parts of apple-picking etiquette is to be gentle with the trees and respectful of the fruit. Only pick apples that are ready to be harvested, and use both hands to twist the apple off the tree carefully. Avoid tugging or pulling too hard, as this can damage the tree or knock off other fruit that’s not yet ripe.
Pro Tip: Don’t shake the branches or grab apples that have fallen to the ground unless they are explicitly marked for use—many orchards don’t allow ground apples to be collected for food safety reasons.
4. Pick What You’ll Use
It’s tempting to fill your basket to the brim, but be mindful of how many apples you can realistically take home and use. Many orchards charge by the pound, and wasting apples by picking too many is disrespectful to the farm. If you plan to make pies, applesauce, or cider, have a rough estimate of how many apples you’ll need before you begin picking.
Pro Tip: Ask the orchard staff for recommendations on which apples are best for baking, cooking, or snacking to make sure you get the perfect batch.
5. Follow the Orchard’s Rule
Each orchard has its own rules, whether it’s about which areas are open for picking, guidelines for bringing pets, or designated parking zones. Always follow posted signs, stay on designated paths, and don’t venture into restricted areas. Respecting the rules helps keep the orchard safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to clean up after yourself! If you bring snacks or beverages, dispose of trash in proper receptacles, and don’t leave any personal belongings behind.
6. Be Courteous to Other Pickers
Apple picking is a social activity, and you’ll likely be sharing the orchard with other families and groups. Be mindful of others’ space, especially in popular areas where apples are ripe. Avoid reaching over someone else to grab an apple, and give everyone a little room to enjoy their time.
Pro Tip: If the orchard is crowded, try to explore the less busy areas. Not only will this give you a more peaceful experience, but you might also find untouched rows with plenty of apples to pick!
7. Consider Bringing a Basket or Bag
While many orchards provide bags or baskets for picking, some charge extra or expect you to bring your own. Bringing a reusable basket or bag is not only more eco-friendly but also ensures that you have a way to carry your apples home without having to worry about extra fees or running out of bags.
Etiquette Tip: If you’re using the orchard’s bags, don’t overstuff them or stretch them beyond capacity. Respect the supplies provided and treat them gently.
8. Pay for What You Pick
It might seem obvious, but always remember to pay for all the apples you’ve picked before leaving the orchard. Sampling apples directly from the tree is typically frowned upon unless the orchard specifically allows it. If you’d like to taste an apple before you pick more, ask an orchard staff member for guidance on which apples to try or purchase a pre-picked one from the farm stand.
9. Support the Orchard’s Farm Stand
After a day of apple picking, consider stopping by the orchard’s farm stand to buy other fresh, local produce or homemade goods. Many orchards sell seasonal items like pumpkins, jams, and baked goods, which can be a delicious way to take more of the farm experience home with you.
Pro Tip: These purchases support the local farmers and contribute to the orchard’s continued success, so stock up on a few goodies!
10. Capture Memories, But Be Mindful of Others
Apple picking is a perfect fall photo opportunity, but don’t let your photo-taking interfere with the experience of others. Be considerate of people around you, and don’t block pathways or monopolize popular photo spots for too long. Also, respect the privacy of other families and avoid getting them in the background of your shots unless they’re okay with it.
A day at the apple orchard is the perfect way to celebrate fall’s bounty, and with these simple etiquette tips, you can make sure it’s a fun and respectful experience for everyone. By being mindful of the orchard’s rules, treating the trees and apples with care, and considering your fellow apple pickers, you’ll ensure that your day in the orchard is as sweet as the apples you bring home!