Golden Delicious apples are typically ripe and ready for harvest from the end of September to October. It is important to pick them before they are fully ripe to ensure their best taste and texture. The timing of the harvest can vary slightly depending on the specific climate and growing conditions in your area, so it is always a good idea to keep an eye on the apples and monitor their progress.
Once the Golden Delicious apples are harvested, they can continue to ripen further in storage. This is why they are considered winter apples, as they can be stored and enjoyed throughout the colder months. If you have your own apple trees, it can be a wonderful experience to pick the apples at their peak and then watch them continue to develop their flavors in storage.
To store Golden Delicious apples, it is important to keep them in a cool, dry, and dark place. For example, you can place them in boxes in a pantry or cellar. This environment helps to prolong their freshness and prevent them from spoiling. It is also important to keep the apples separate from other fruits, as some fruits release ethylene gas which can cause premature ripening and spoilage.
When stored properly, Golden Delicious apples can keep well until March or even longer. However, it is important to regularly check on them and remove any apples that show signs of spoilage or rot. This will help to ensure the quality of the remaining apples and prevent any potential for the spoilage to spread.
In my personal experience, I have found that Golden Delicious apples have a wonderful flavor and texture when picked at the right time and allowed to ripen further in storage. I have enjoyed the process of harvesting them in the fall and then savoring their sweetness throughout the winter months. It is truly a delight to have access to fresh, homegrown apples even when they are not in season.
The month of October is generally the prime time to harvest Golden Delicious apples. However, it is important to consider the specific conditions in your area and monitor the apples closely to ensure they are picked at their optimal ripeness. By storing them properly, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of Golden Delicious apples well into the winter months.
