We purchased Blueberry House four years ago, which means it has been four years since we inherited a couple fruit trees.
I had never owned a fruit tree before, but was really excited at the possibility. I’ve always loved apple picking in the fall, and couldn’t wait to have my own mini orchard to help me produce pies and apple butter and all the delicious treats I would dream up.
Unfortunately only one apple tree has survived through now, and it was one we planted to add to the older trees. We’ve had a mix of both apple and peach trees with varied success over the years, even being fortunate to have enough peaches for multiple pies and crumbles one summer.
Since our oldest fruit tree is now only four years old, it is still not producing a ton of apples.
I thought I might get enough this fall to make a pie or two, but went out the other day and was saddened to see only about eight apples left on the tree. The rest must have succumbed to squirrels or the crazy hot weather that has completely blown up this summer’s growing season.
Even though the apples weren’t quite ready, I picked them so that we could eat a little something from the fruits of our labor. The apple crumble I made was raved about by both Adam and Griff. Poor Owen isn’t a cinnamon fan, so he never partakes.
But even without his help eating the treats, our tiny backyard harvest reminded me of one important thing. It’s almost apple picking season at the orchards in our area. And I need to book a pick date quickly or else it will pass me by!
Last year I booked too late and there ended up being no more apples left to pick due to a low season. I promised myself not to make that mistake again, and will be booking one of the first u-pick dates available.
We have picked apples at Carrigan Farms in Mooresville since we moved here in 2020. Not only do we get a wagon ride to the orchard, but they also have a petting zoo and the most gorgeous scenery around.
Every year I bring my fancy Nikon camera and take pictures of Adam and the boys picking. Orchards are amazing for nature photos, and it helps me capture some nice shots of how fast the boys are growing. We create Hopkins family memories and I get to capture them for posterity.
Not only do we bring home bags of apples that I make into delicious treats, but we usually also purchase some homemade cider and apple cinnamon donuts. How can you say no to all the fall treats, right?!
I highly recommend using Google to find an orchard in your area and booking a u-pick date as soon as you can. Most of the orchards and farms have family activities that can keep your kids having fun for longer than just picking.
Sometimes your picking can even help your child’s class, as teachers love doing activities with apples for counting and crafts. We usually pick enough that I can make some delicious desserts, we can eat all the apples we want and I still have leftovers for classroom supplies or neighbor gifts.
Plan your family’s apple picking adventure and let me know how it goes in the comments!
