As the summer warmth fades and the crisp autumn air begins to settle in, there's one activity that perfectly captures the essence of the season - apple picking. Late September through early October is prime time for harvesting a variety of apples, from sweet and juicy to tart and crunchy. Whether you're heading to a local orchard for a family outing, or just craving that farm-fresh apple flavor, this is the perfect time to dive into the heart of fall harvest.

The Best Apples of the Season

Right now there are a delightful selection of apples in Connecticut, each variety offering a unique flavor profile. Here are some of the most popular types that you'll find at Lyman Orchards during this time:

1. Honeycrisp: Known for its perfect balance of sweetness and crisp texture, Honeycrisp apples are a favorite for eating fresh. Their juicy bite makes them ideal for snacking or adding to salads.
2. McIntosh: Slightly tart with a tender texture, McIntosh apples are versatile and excellent for baking, making applesauce, or enjoying on their own.
3. Empire: A hybrid of McIntosh and Red Delicious, these apples offer a sweet-tart flavor with a firm texture, making them perfect for pies or eating fresh.
4. Cortland: This variety holds its shape well in cooking and is less likely to brown quickly, making it great for fruit salads or baking.
5. Golden Delicious: With a mild, sweet flavor and tender flesh, Golden Delicious apples are perfect for both fresh eating and cooking. They hold up well in recipes like crisps and cobblers.

Why Apple Picking Is the Perfect Fall Activity

Apple picking isn't just about the fruit; it's an experience that immerses you in the beauty of autumn. Here's why it's such a beloved seasonal tradition:

• Scenic Surroundings: Most apple orchards are nestled in beautiful, sprawling landscapes that become breathtaking as the leaves start to change. Imagine wandering through rows of apple trees, surrounded by vibrant oranges, reds, and yellows, with the cool breeze carrying the scent of ripening apples.
• Family Fun: Apple picking is a great family-friendly activity. Kids love racing through the orchard to find the perfect apple, and it's a change to connect with nature while enjoying some unplugged time outdoors.
• Farm Fresh: There's something satisfying about eating an apple you've just picked from the tree. It's fresh, flavorful, and Lyman Orchards apples are Eco-Certified.
• Orchard Perks: Many orchards offer more than just apple picking. Lyman Orchards offers a Peanuts themed Corn Maze this year for all Snoopy & Charlie Brown lovers as well as horse-drawn wagon rides and petting farms available on weekends in September and October. Visit the farm market with some seasonal favorites, such as apple cider donuts, apple pies, fresh-pressed apple cider, and pumpkin crumb cakes to enjoy on-site or to take home.

Tips for a Successful Apple Picking Trip

• Dress for the Weather: Fall weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes for walking through the orchard.
• Don't Overpick: It's easy to get carried away, but be mindful of how many apples you're picking. Only harvest what you can reasonable eat, cook, or store.
• Store Apples Properly: After your trip, store apples in a cool, dark place to extend their shelf life. Many apples will last for weeks if stored properly in the fridge or a cool panty. Lyman Orchards has some handy tips and tricks about storing apples that you can read here.

Plan Your Visit

Apple picking season is only a few months long and each variety ranges from 2-4 weeks of availability from start to finish, so plan your trip sooner rather than later. Call Lyman Orchards hotline, 860-349-6015, to see what varieties are in season and ensure there is availability. Like most orchards, Lyman Orchards can get crowded on weekends, so consider visiting on a weekday for a more relaxed experience.