How to store apples

Overview

There are many ways to store apples, from keeping them fresh in the fridge for a few weeks, to long-term storage in apple crates. Early apple varieties, harvested between September and October - such as 'Beauty of Bath' and 'Worcester Pearmain' - don't tend to keep well and are best eaten within a fortnight of harvesting. If stored correctly, late apple varieties, harvested in November - such as 'Newton Wonder' and 'Ashmead's Kernel' - can last throughout the winter months.

Only store firm, unblemished apples, as damaged fruits are likely to go mouldy and infect the entire crop. Check your stored apples regularly and remove any damaged ones immediately.

The following storage suggestions will help you decide which option is best for you.

How to do it

1

Place a few apples in a clear plastic bag - such as a freezer bag - and store in the fridge for up to a week. Use pre-used bags where possible.

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2

To store apples over winter, wrap each one in a single sheet of newspaper and place them in single layers on a tray. For a cheap alternative to apple racks, use an old filing tray, adding more layers as you need them.

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3

If you have the space and a large apple tree, you may want to invest in an apple rack. Apple racks can store a large quantity of fruit, and enable air to circulate between the layers, so you don't need to wrap each fruit individually.

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