Ref: Master Gardener Training Manual, Tree Fruits, P. 65; MSU Extension, Predicting Apple Harvest dates.
WHEN ARE APPLES RIPE?
Apple flavor rarely improves after the apple is picked, so it’s important to pick the apple at the right time.
Apples should not be picked before they are fully ripe unless they will be stored long ter m.
Deciding when apples are ready to pick is a common problem. Even experienced growers may become
confused if weather conditions cause fruit to mature at unusual times. There are several ways to determine
if an apple is ripe, but knowing the general maturity dates of the varieties as well as the temperature are the
best way to target the picking time.
Varieties that normally ripen around September 15 are McIntosh’s and Paula Red. Jonathans normally ripen
around October 8. Paula reds usually ripen around October 14. These dates vary by year and by location
within the state. The Michigan State University Extension Website provides specific anticipated harvest
dates for many varieties, by location within the State.
Ripe apples are generally firm, solid and well-colored, free of bruises and deep external blemishes.
Apple color also provides a clue. Mature color varies among varieties. Solid red apples include Paula
Red, Red Gravenstein, Macspur, Spartan, Jonnee, Ida Red, and Rome. Apples with red stripes over a
yellow background are Cortland, Red Delicious, Empire, and Winesap.Those with a red flush over a green
or yellow background are Prima, Jonnamac, McIntosh, Priscilla, Jonathon, and Northern Spy. Yellow
apples include Smoothee Golden and Golden Delicious. And, of course, Granny Smith is a green apple
even when ripe.
If possible, cutting the apples open and looking at the seeds will give an indication of ripeness. Mature
apples will have dark seed coats. Ultimately though, tasting the apple is the best way to determine if
the fruit is ripe.
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