Delaware is a state known for its natural autumn beauty. Residents and visitors to Delaware who want to enjoy the popular fall activity of picking apples need only visit one of Delaware's apple orchards and farms.
Across the state, apple orchards and farms offer visitors the opportunity to pick apples along with other fruits and vegetables, according to gardens.com. Many of the orchards and farms also feature other activities, like hayrides and corn mazes, as well refreshment stands, farmer's markets and craft stores.
When apple-picking, look for firm apples without bruises or blemishes, according to americantowns.com. Gently place the apples in the basket or container after picking to avoid bruising them. Delaware orchards and farms grow many varieties of apples, so ask the farmer or owners to explain the different varieties and how to tell if the apples are ripe.
In Delaware, the honeycrisp variety of apples can be picked as early as late August, according to the Fifer Orchards website. Other varieties can be picked from early September through October, with the pink lady variety the latest to ripen in late October.
Besides eating, apples have many other uses. Apple butter, home-made applesauce, apple pies and apple cobblers are a few of delicious items you can make with your picked apples. Store apples in a cool and dry place so the apples keep longer.
