Apple Picking Season

Apple Season in the Northeast

• Apple picking season in the Northeast lasts from about August to October, depending on the location. In the most populated part of the region -- the corridor between Boston and Philadelphia -- expect varieties such as Gala to start the season in August, with Red Delicious ripening in September and Fujis rounding out the harvest in October.

Apple Season in the Midwest

• Apple season in the Midwest is similar to that in the Northeast, although colder temperatures farther north means that the harvest may end before October in some places. Despite the cooler weather, there is still a wealth of apples to be found. Minnesota prides itself on having the most distinct assortment of apple varieties anywhere in the United States, with varieties ripening from August through early October.

Apple Season in the Northwest

• Washington is the largest apple producer in the United States, so apple picking opportunities abound here. Red Delicious apples are the state's specialty, and they are available throughout the harvest season, which runs from August to October. Fuji and Honeycrisp are also available during these months.

Apple Season in the Southeast

• Apple picking in the Southeast lasts from late summer through fall, as the warmer weather provides a longer growing season. In Georgia, McIntosh varieties can ripen as early as the end of July, followed by Empire and Red and Golden Delicious in August. In September, look for Rome apples, with Granny Smith and Pink Lady varieties rounding out the season in October.

Apple Season in the Southwest

• The Southwest's desert climate excludes apple orchids from some locations, but there are still apple picking opportunities in Arizona and California. In Arizona, plan on picking in August and September. In California, apple growers have at least one variety available almost year-round.