Granny Smith apples are a popular variety of apple known for their bright green color, tart flavor, and firm texture. A favorite of bakers and home cooks, they can be used in a variety of dishes, from pies and tarts to salads and sauces. But when is the best time to pick Granny Smiths? In this article, we’ll explore the factors that determine when Granny Smith apples are ready to harvest.
When to Harvest Granny Smith Apples
Granny Smith apples are a late-season apple, which means they typically ripen in the fall, sometime between late September and early November, depending on the climate and location where they are grown. The best way to determine when Granny Smith apples are ready to harvest is to look for the following signs
- Color: As Granny Smith apples ripen, their bright green skin begins to take on a yellowish hue. When the apples are fully ripe, their skin will be a pale green or yellowish green.
- Firmness: Granny Smith apples are known for their firm texture, which can make it difficult to determine when they are ripe. One way to test the firmness of an apple is to gently press the skin with your thumb. If the apple is ripe, it will give slightly under pressure.
- Flavor: Granny Smith apples are known for their tart flavor, which can become more pronounced as the apple ripens. However, some people prefer to wait until the apples are fully ripe for a sweeter flavor.
It’s important to note that different growing conditions can affect the ripening time of Granny Smith apples. In warmer climates, the apples may ripen earlier, while in cooler climates, they may ripen later. In addition, factors such as weather conditions, soil quality, and tree health can affect the ripening time of the apples.
Tips for harvesting Granny Smith apples
Here are some tips to remember when harvesting Granny Smith apples:
- Use sharp pruning shears or scissors to cut the apples from the tree, being careful not to damage surrounding fruit or branches.
- Handle the apples gently to avoid bruising or damaging them. Bruised apples are more likely to rot and spoil.
- Store apples in a cool, dry place, such as a root cellar or refrigerator, to extend their shelf life.
The bottom line
Granny Smith apples are a popular variety of apple known for their tart flavor and firm texture. They typically ripen in the fall, sometime between late September and early November, depending on the climate and location where they are grown. By looking for signs of ripeness, such as color, firmness, and flavor, and following proper harvesting techniques, you can ensure that you pick the best Granny Smith apples for your next baking or cooking project.
FAQs
What month are Granny Smith apples ready to pick?
Mid-season varieties like Granny Smith and Fuji are ready in late September to early October. Late varieties like Cripps Pink and Fuji ripen in late October-November (perfect for late apple-picking trips). Since the timing of apple season varies from year to year, it’s helpful to watch the apples for signs of ripening.
What is the harvest season for Granny Smith apples?
Granny Smith apples are harvested in late April and early May and are available until December.
How do you know when a Granny Smith apple is ripe?
You’ll know Granny Smith apples are ripe if they have a pink or yellow blush and are roughly the size of your fist. If the apples just aren’t coming off the tree, they’re probably not ripe. You shouldn’t have to jerk a ripe apple off the tree with all your might.
How do you know when a green apple is ready to pick?
Check how easy it is to pick the apple; give it an upwards twist and if it separates easily it is ready. You will never have to cut a ripe apple from the tree. Check the seed color; the seeds in an apple will general turn brown then the apple is ripe.
Are Granny Smith apples seasonal?
Granny Smith apples are in season in autumn but are available all year round.
What apples are in season right now?
Fall Apples (good storage apples) —
- Gala. In season: mid-August to late October.
- Honeycrisp. In season: mid-August to late September.
- Empire. In season: late August to mid-October.
- Jonathan. In season: early September to mid-November.
- Cortland. In season: early September to mid-November.
- Red Delicious.
- Jonagold.
Where do Granny Smith apples grow best?
It’s no wonder why this apple variety grows so well in central Washington, as Granny Smith loves the sunshine! The leading apple growing region in the U.S. is home to long, warm summer days and cool nights that occasionally give Granny Smith a pink blush on her cheeks.
Why are my Granny Smith apples turning red?
This change happens because apples contain starch which converts to sugar during harvest. During storage, this sugar is consumed by the apple as energy.
Do Granny Smith apples turn yellow?
It remains firm when baked, making it a popular cooking apple used in pies, where it can be sweetened. The apple goes from being completely green to turning yellow when overripe. The US Apple Association reported in 2019 that the Granny Smith was the third most popular apple in the United States of America.