I'm happy to report that my first apple picking experience was a success!
Being a vertically challenged person, I was a little hesitant about how I was going to actually be able to pick the apples. Luckily all the trees at this orchard were pretty short so no ladders were needed!
I learned quickly that apple picking is actually quite simple after a demonstration by one of the staff at the orchard.
"Eye to the sky and twist" - point the bottom of the apple (the "eye") to the sky and do a quick twist. If it comes off the branch easily then it's ready for picking! Pulling it off the branch before it's ready may damage the branches for next year's harvest.
With that quick lesson in mind, I was able to pick my 12 pounds of apples! The rest of my time at the orchard was spent stuffing my face with their delicious baked goods.
It was relaxing to get out of the city for the day and to be surrounded by all the greenery. The yummy apple pies were an added bonus!
Check out Pine Farms Orchard!