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Storing Apples

Source: NDSU Extension Service Horticulturist

The storage life of home grown apples is dependent upon the variety grown, the stage of maturity at harvest time, care in handling and storage temperatures. Early maturing varieties are not generally considered as long keepers. They should be utilized or processed within one or two months after harvest. A good storage apple such as Haralson, will keep for six months or more when cared for properly.

Apples remain alive after they are picked and they continue to respire or "breathe." The higher the storage temperature, the more rapid is the respiration and the more rapidly the apple fruit spoils. Apples keep best when stored near 32 F and at 85 to 90 percent relative humidity. Home storages have difficulty maintaining high humidity. In these cases, store small quantities of fruit in plastic bags.

Store only perfect fruits that are free from punctures or bruises. Check stored fruit periodically. One rotten apple can spoil the barrel if not removed. Light frosts are not harmful to apples while still on the tree. Do not harvest apples when temperatures are below freezing. Allow them to warm before picking to prevent bruise injury.

If you have further questions, contact your county office of the NDSU Extension Service for additional information on storing apples.

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For More Information Contact your North Dakota County Extension Office of the NDSU Extension Service for additional information or see our main NDSU Web Page for publications and articles on Agriculture, Horticulture, Youth and Family, Business and Community and Food and Nutrition at  http://www.ag.ndsu.nodak.edu/