For those seeking a cozy Estonian lifestyle, getting out to a farm to pick fruit is one way to do it. It’s part of moving with the seasons and embracing the simple pleasures in a mindful way, from plucking a ripe apple from the tree to savouring the rich flavours of a freshly baked, butter crust pie. In both Estonia and North America, the harvest has typically meant hard labour, but it also signals the coming of a slower, more reflective season where families gather, share, and endure the cold months in each other’s company. Therefore, apple picking is more than just a way to stock up on fresh produce.
And in case you’re seeking out a daytime activity for you and your family or friends, this rustic activity can be undertaken well into early November. So you’ve got some time yet! Here are some things to keep in mind as you head out to the orchard (or into the garden):
Easy does it: Avoid letting apples fall to the ground, as bruising can quickly turn the fruit bad. A gentle twist of the wrist while lifting upward is all it takes to cleanly pluck an apple from its branch. You may even find some orchards provide picking poles, which allow you to reach the highest fruit without damaging the branches. Bring along a sturdy basket or canvas bag to carry your apples while you wander the orchard.
For an elegant touch, mix apples with greens like arugula or spinach, toasted walnuts, crumbled blue cheese, and a drizzle of apple cider vinaigrette to tie it all together.
If some apples do take a tumble, don’t despair—they can still be transformed into pies, baked apples, or even applesauce. A classic recipe for baked apples involves stuffing them with a mixture of oats, cinnamon, and brown sugar, then slow-cooking them in the oven.
If you prefer something savoury, try adding diced apples to a salad. For an elegant touch, mix apples with greens like arugula or spinach, toasted walnuts, crumbled blue cheese, and a drizzle of apple cider vinaigrette to tie it all together. The sweetness of the apples pairs nicely with the nutty elements, creating a balanced dish that's perfect for a lunch or dinner party. And how could we forget? Put some tart apples in rosolje!
Storage: When it comes to storing apples, there’s something of a technique to it. Once you bring your fruit home, it’s essential to store the apples properly to keep them fresh for as long as possible. Apples should be kept in a cool, dry place like a cellar or basement, where the temperature is steady.
In addition, you can create your own simple apple storage system by nailing chicken wire across a large, unused picture frame and placing it on top of some blocks. This allows air to flow evenly around each apple, preventing moisture buildup, which helps the fruit last longer.
The old 16th-century proverb, “One bad apple spoils the whole barrel,” holds true here. One Estonian translation might be “Üks mäda õun rikub kogu korvi.”
Keeping your apples separate from each other can avoid premature spoilage. The old 16th-century proverb, “One bad apple spoils the whole barrel,” holds true here. One Estonian translation might be “Üks mäda õun rikub kogu korvi.” A single bruised or rotting apple releases ethylene gas, which can speed up the ripening and decay of its neighbours. When storing apples, place them in a single layer, and if you notice any that are starting to go soft, remove them immediately to protect the others.
Remember, too, that apples can be sensitive to temperature fluctuations — too much warmth can cause them to ripen quickly, while too much cold can damage their texture. The ideal temperature is around 0 degrees Celsius, with high humidity to prevent shrivelling.
An apple for every purpose: While out picking apples, look for specific varieties depending on your intended use. Orchards may offer a variety of apples, from the tart and crisp Granny Smith, ideal for baking, to the sweet and juicy Honeycrisp, ideal for eating fresh. For applesauce or apple butter, McIntosh and Cortland varieties work beautifully, as they break down easily when cooked. Gala and Fuji apples, on the other hand, retain their shape well in pies and tarts, making them the right choice for those who want to experiment with both cooking and snacking.
Picking the right orchard: Looking at southern Ontario specifically, there are plenty of spots to choose from. In the Niagara region, there’s Parkway Orchards, along the Niagara Parkway. Carluke Orchards near Ancaster combines apple picking with a bakery bursting with fresh goods. For readers in the GTA, Downey’s Strawberry and Apple Farm outside of Brampton is a popular destination. Here, you’ll also be able to access a corn maze, a plethora of games, and festive events for Pumpkinfest until October 31st, making it a perfect outing for families with children.
Put on a scarf and sweater, grab a basket, and head to the orchard to try it out!
