Fall is apple harvest time! Hundreds of pick−your−own apple orchards across the country offer fun and educational experiences for the whole family.

A day trip to a pick−your−own apple orchard is a perfect fall family expedition. Apple picking is a great way to enjoy Mother Nature´s fall color show, expose kids to agriculture, and to have some darn good fun in the process.

We offer the following tips to get the most out of your apple−picking adventure.

∗To find pick−your−own orchards in your area, contact your state tourism bureau, chamber of commerce, Cooperative Extension Service office or department of agriculture.
∗ Call ahead to find out days and hours of operation − depending on Mother Nature, this year´s harvest can be running early or late, affecting hours.
∗ Dress appropriately − wear comfortable clothes and footwear that can get dirty. Don´t forget the bug spray and sun screen!
∗ Most of all, have fun! Take it slow, and enjoy the peace and quiet. Let the littlest ones set the pace.
∗ Try varieties of apples that are new to you − most orchards feature apple varieties that are only available locally.
∗ Mind your manners. Be nice to the trees, and carry your trash out with you. Take all the fruit that you pick.
∗ For the best apple−eating experience, pick fruit that is firm to the touch and free of bruises. Once you get them home, store apples in your refrigerator, in a ventilated bag, away from other strong−odored foods.
∗ Continue the fun at home! Involve the whole family in preparing apple dishes, such as the following recipe for microwave applesauce. They´ll all be more inclined to eat food they helped prepare!