Apple picking season is an exciting time at Sweet Berry Farm! The apples we grow cover nearly the entire flavor spectrum and ripening schedule. That means some are ready to pick as early as mid-August and others aren’t ready until the first week of October. The season usually lasts through mid-October, depending on supply and weather. When we planted our first apple trees over thirty years ago, we never dreamed that we would have such a vast variety of apples one day!
We put together this apple guide to help you plan your visit. The apples are listed here in their typical order of ripening. Sometimes we must temporarily close picking so more fruit can ripen. Give us a call anytime to confirm whether picking is available before you head over to the farm (401) 847 - 3912.
Ripe: Mid-August
Pristine
This bright yellow apple is our first of the season. Some say it smells faintly of cider and honey. Its tender texture and mild, somewhat tart flavor make it a good choice for fresh eating.
Ripens mid-August
Ripe: First week of September
Sansa
This apple is one of the first to ripen each year. Bright red with touches of yellow, Sansa apples are great for eating fresh or drying. Its taste is similar to the Gala apple.
Ripens the first week of September
Zestar
As the name implies, these apples are zesty, juicy, crunchy, and downright delicious. They’re best eaten right off the tree, but can be refrigerated for a month or more if needed.
Ripens the first week of September
Ripe: Second week of September
Ginger Gold
Sweet, tangy and juicy, this variety is one of the best early-season apples out there. Ginger Gold is related to the Golden Delicious. It’s an excellent choice for both baking and fresh eating.
Ripens the second week of September
Summer Mac
Also knows as Early Macs, or Summer McIntosh, these apples are slightly tart and crisp. They're best when eaten fresh but are also an excellent choice for baking into pies.
Ripens the second week of September
Ripe: Third week of September
Gala
The sweet, refreshing flavor and crunchy finish of this variety makes it ideal for snacking. Gala have a beautiful red-yellow color and ripen mid-season.
Ripens the third week of September
Honeycrisp
These apples are among the most popular at Sweet Berry Farm. A superior fresh eating apple. Sweet and exceptionally crisp!
Ripens the third week of September
Cortland
Cortland apples are delicious when baked into apple turnovers, apple pie, apple crisp and more. They have a sharp and refreshing flavor.
Ripens the third week of September
Mac
McIntosh apples, more commonly knowns as Macs, have red and green skin, a tart flavor, and tender white flesh. They’re considered to be an all-purpose apple, suitable both for cooking and eating raw.
Ripens the third week of September
Golden Supreme
This apple is great fresh eating. It’s sweet and flavorful with a smooth texture. Since the flesh remains cream-colored long after cutting, Golden Supreme apples are ideal for fruit salads and garden salads. They can also be used for drying, baking, and made into ciders.
Ripens the third week of September
Ripe: Last week of September
Macoun
Known for being extra tender and sweet, Macouns are best eaten fresh and make a welcome addition to salads. Whether you pronounce it as “Mac-cow-n” or “Mac-coo-n,” you’ll love its crispness and sweet-tart flavor.
Ripens the last week of September
Empire
The top choice for baking and freezing, this apple is a mix of sweet and tart. The variety is an offshoot of the Red Delicious and McIntosh. Expect a big crunch and tart finish.
Ripens the last week of September
Jonagold
This exceptionally sweet variety is also very versatile. It's great for juicing, cider making, eating fresh, or cooking.
Ripens the last week of September
Ripe: First week of October
Red Delicious
This iconic apple has a very mild and sweet flavor. Higher in antioxidants than many other apple varieties, Red Delicious are best for eating fresh or cooking into applesauce.
Ripens the first week of October
Mutsu Crispin
These bright green apples are crisp and juicy with a sweet-tart taste. Its flavor profile complements any pie or tart. Best for eating fresh, sauce-making, baking, or freezing.
Ripens the first week of October
Fuji
One of the most refreshing apple varieties, Fuji apples are also considered to be the sweetest apple you can find. It’s just right to eat fresh off the tree. Some people say they taste notes of honey, citrus, and pear. Fuji apples tend to become even more flavorful as the season progresses.
Ripens the first week of October