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On today’s podcast episode, Harold and Rachel talk about the apple harvest and all the ways they are processing and preserving the harvest.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 224 – October 18, 2023

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The Apple Harvesting Process:

• Best time to harvest- Different varieties have different harvest times (late summer to late October)
• Signs of a ripe apple-When they easily come off tree
• Tools Needed
• Post-harvest care- Brush off the apples, no need to wash until you use, 35-40 F with humidity is best for storage, wrap in paper and store in single layer.  Check routinely for rotten apples.

Apple Processing

• Cleaning and sorting
• Juicing
  • Tools Needed- juicer, or chop and add a bit of water, blend and strain
• Cider-making- great for drops and bruised apples
  • Tools Needed- 
• Drying for apple chips
• Making applesauce and apple butter
• Using the scraps- see link

Apple Preservation Methods

• Canning:
  • Applesauce
  • Apple pie fillings
  • Jams and Jellies
• Freezing apples:
  • Pre-treatment methods to prevent browning
    • Saltwater – 1/4 teaspoon salt with 1 cup water
    • Lemon Water – 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice with 1 cup water
  • Best ways to package
• Dehydrating
  • Apple chips
  • Apple Sugar 
  • Apple Molasses

• Fermenting

• Vinegar

• Scrap Vinegar

Links

• https://www.yellowbirchhobbyfarm.com/15-ways-to-use-apple-peels-cores/
• Fruit Picker Pole – https://amzn.to/3PKhgrX 
• Apple Peeler Corer – https://amzn.to/3rw105X 
• Fruit and Apple Crusher – https://amzn.to/3PHoyNi 
• 3.2 Gallon Fruit Press – https://amzn.to/3LNVNNy 
• Vacuum Sealer for Mason Jars- https://amzn.to/3RHg7UI
• Excalibur Dehydrator- https://amzn.to/3rDwQxs

Listen On YouTube

• About
• Latest Posts

Harold Thornbro

Author, blogger, podcaster, homesteading and permaculture enthusiast. I have a passion for sharing what I learn and helping others on their journey. If you're looking for me, you'll usually find me in the garden.

Latest posts by Harold Thornbro (see all)

• Effective Winter Composting: Essential Tips and Techniques for Cold Weather Success - December 7, 2023
• Compost, Topsoil, Potting Soil: Which Should I Buy For My Raised Beds? - November 30, 2023
• Faith, Family, and Farming with Guests Brad and Starla Walker - November 29, 2023

• About
• Latest Posts

Rachel Jamison

An aspiring permaculturist and urban homesteader who loves to teach and inspire others to grow where they are planted.

Latest posts by Rachel Jamison (see all)

• Growing and Operating A Farm Business with Guest Rob Kaiser - December 6, 2023
• Goats, Fencing, Soap, and More with Guests Dave & Amanda Allen - October 25, 2023
• Apple Harvesting, Processing, and Preserving - October 18, 2023