How Do I Store Apples For Winter?

“I have a few apple trees in my backyard in Vancouver, and they’ve given us a bumper crop of apples this year. I’d love to keep them fresh all winter long, but I’m not sure how to go about it. Can you give me some tips on how to store apples for the winter so that they stay crisp and delicious for as long as possible? Also, are there certain apple varieties that are better for long-term storage?” Thanks, Gary, Vancouver, Canada.

How Do I Store Apples For Winter?

When your apple trees have been abundant, like Gary’s in Vancouver, you’re left with the delightful problem of figuring out what to do with all those apples so they don’t go to waste. Storing apples for winter is something your great-grandparents might have done as a matter of course, but it’s a tradition many of us have lost touch with in the age of supermarkets. Let’s reconnect with those roots and look at how you can keep your apples fresh and delicious, even as snow gathers outside.

Selecting the Right Apples for Storage

The first thing to know, Gary, is that not all apples are equal when it comes to winter storage. Some varieties are naturally better suited to last through the colder months, while others are more likely to spoil quickly. Generally, apples that are harvested later in the season are more likely to store well. These apples have spent more time in the sun and cool nights, which enhances their ability to stay fresh longer.

Best Apple Varieties for Winter Storage

Here are some apple varieties that are known for their excellent storage qualities:

• Granny Smith: These apples are not only tart and delicious, but they also boast one of the longest storage lives. Kept in the right conditions, Granny Smiths can last up to six months.
• Fuji: Sweet and crisp, Fuji apples also have a lengthy storage potential, maintaining their quality for up to four or five months.
• Honeycrisp: This popular variety can last for up to seven months if stored correctly.
• Rome: Excellent for baking, these apples stay firm and fresh for more extended periods, making them a solid choice for winter storage.
• Red Delicious: Known for their sweetness, Red Delicious apples can store well for three to five months.

The key takeaway is to choose apples that are known for their storage ability. The above varieties are great options, but if you have a different type of apple tree, just keep in mind that apples with firm flesh and thicker skins generally keep better. Apples that are thinner-skinned or have softer flesh are better enjoyed fresh.

Picking Apples for Storage

Gary, now that you know which apples are ideal for storing, the next step is to ensure you’re picking them at the right time and in the right condition. Timing is everything here, as apples picked too early might be underripe, while those harvested too late can be overripe and prone to spoilage. Here’s how to ensure you’re selecting the best apples from your backyard:

• Check for Ripeness: Apples should be fully mature before picking. They’ll often come off the tree with a gentle twist when they’re ready. Avoid apples that show signs of being overripe, like a mealy texture or soft spots.
• Pick In Good Weather: Try to pick your apples on a dry day when the weather is cool. Wet apples can spoil quicker because moisture can promote the growth of mold and bacteria.
• Sort Them Carefully: As you pick, be on the lookout for any bruises or blemishes. These damaged apples may not store well and should be set aside for immediate use in cooking or eating.
• Handle Gently: Apples bruise easily, especially when they’re ripe. Hold them gently and set them down carefully in your basket to avoid any damage.

After picking, it’s essential to sort through the apples and only store those in perfect condition. Even a tiny bruise or blemish can lead to early spoilage and affect the other apples nearby.

Preparing Apples for Storage

Once you’ve selected your apples, Gary, there are a few steps to take before you put them away for the winter. Proper preparation will help extend their storage life and keep them at their best.

• Cleaning: Don’t wash the apples before storing them because the moisture can cause them to rot. It’s better to leave apples dry. If your apples are particularly dirty, wiping them gently with a dry, soft cloth should be enough.
• Inspect and Sort: Give each apple a final once-over to ensure it’s free from any disease spots, bruises, or insect damage. Separate apples by size — larger apples tend to spoil quicker, so store them separately and plan to use them first.
• Prepare Storage Space: Line your storage trays with newspaper or another absorbent material to help manage moisture. Ensure that your storage area is clean, dry, and well-ventilated.

Storing Apples: Optimal Conditions

To keep your apples fresh all winter, it’s critical to store them in a place where the temperature, humidity, and ventilation can be controlled. Here’s what to look for:

Temperature

Apples are best stored at a cool temperature, ideally between 30-35°F (-1 to 1.7°C). This temperature range slows down the ripening process and helps prevent spoilage. If you’re using a traditional cold cellar, unheated garage, or a spare refrigerator, these are excellent options. Be careful, though — if the temperature dips below 30°F, the apples may freeze and become mushy when thawed.

Humidity

Optimum humidity levels for apple storage are between 90-95%. High humidity helps to keep the apples from shriveling by preventing moisture loss. If your storage area tends to be on the drier side, consider adding a damp towel or placing shallow pans of water nearby.

Ventilation

Good air circulation is essential because apples emit ethylene gas, a natural hormone involved in the ripening process. If too much gas is trapped around the apples, it can speed up ripening and lead to spoilage. Look for storage containers that allow for ventilation, like slatted crates or baskets which allow air to flow through. Keep the stored apples at least a few inches away from other fruits and vegetables, as ethylene can cause them to ripen prematurely as well.

Storage Container Options

There are several ways you can store your apples effectively:

• Wooden Crates: These are a traditional method and are ideal as they stack well and allow air to flow.
• Cardboard Boxes: If you don’t have wooden crates, medium-sized cardboard boxes lined with paper can work fine. Just make sure there’s some small gaps or you poke a few holes to allow some circulation.
• Shallow Storage Shelves: If you have a lot of apples, you might consider building shallow storage shelves where you can lay the apples out in a single layer. This way, they aren’t pressing on each other, which can cause bruising.

Storage Location Ideas

Gary, depending on the space you have available, there are several locations you might choose for storing your apples through the winter. Here are some ideas:

• Cold Basement: If your home has a cold basement, use it to store the apples. Make sure the temperature is consistently cool and moderately humid.
• Unheated Garage: Provided it doesn’t drop below freezing, an unheated garage could be an ideal place. Place the apples away from the door where temperatures might fluctuate more drastically.
• Spare Refrigerator: If you have an extra fridge, storing apples in a refrigeration environment can work well, just keep in mind space and also store them in perforated bags to manage the humidity levels inside.

Maintaining Stored Apples

Don’t just “set and forget” your stored apples, Gary. You’ll want to check on them periodically throughout the winter. Here’s what to do:

• Routine Inspections: Every few weeks, give your apples a quick inspection. Remove any that show signs of spoilage to prevent it from spreading to the others.
• Rotate Stock: As the winter progresses, use up the larger apples first, as they are likely to spoil sooner. Also, it’s good practice to rotate them, bringing the older apples forward so they get used first.
• Adjust Position: Make sure the apples aren’t touching other produce like potatoes or root vegetables, which can release moisture and cause apples to spoil faster.

Alternative Storage Methods

If the idea of maintaining a perfect storage environment sounds like a hassle, there are alternative ways to preserve your apple harvest:

• Freezing: Apples can be sliced and frozen, making them convenient for use in pies, desserts, or smoothies later. To prevent slices from browning, blanch them briefly in boiling water before freezing.
• Dehydrating: Turning your apples into dried fruit is a great way to enjoy them later. Dehydrated apple slices can be snacked on as-is or added to granola and oatmeal.
• Canning: Applesauce, apple butter, and pie filling are excellent items to can, allowing you to preserve the taste of your apples for up to a year.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your apples aren’t lasting as long as you’d hoped, or you’re having issues with spoilage, here are a few common problems and what you can do to fix them:

• Shriveling: This usually occurs when the humidity is too low. Try adding moisture to the environment by placing trays of water nearby or damp cloths near the storage area.
• Mold: Mold can take hold if the apples’ environment is too warm, humid or if there isn’t enough ventilation. Be sure to keep the apples cool and well-ventilated, and promptly remove any apples that display signs of mold.
• Spotting and Discoloration: If you’re noticing small spots developing on the skin, it could indicate a storage disease like scald — caused by improper temperature and humidity settings. Ensure the temperature stays around 32°F and the humidity is steady.

A Quick Recap: Storing Apples for Winter

Let’s briefly hit the highlights, Gary:

• Choose sturdy, late-season apple varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji for the best storage potential.
• Harvest apples at the right time and handle them gently to avoid damage.
• Store your apples at a cool temperature (30-35°F), with high humidity (90-95%) and good ventilation.
• Inspect and sort your stored apples regularly.
• Consider alternative preservation methods, like freezing or dehydrating, if long-term storage isn’t working for you.

Final Thoughts…

Your apples, Gary, can indeed last all winter long if you choose the right varieties, pick them at the right time, and store them correctly. Thanks for reaching out with this great question. It’s satisfying to know that you can enjoy the fruits of your labor — literally — all the way into the new year. Don’t forget to check on them every now and then, and by next year, you’ll be a pro at it!