When the temperature begins to cool, apple picking is the perfect autumn family activity. It’s a chance to spend time in the country, get a light workout, and enjoy eating super fresh fruit!
Long Creek Roadside Markets and U-Pick Orchards:
ABLES ORCHARDÂ Hwy. 76 near Long Creek 864-647-2201
Apples, peaches
July 15 through early November
BLUE HAVEN ORCHARDSÂ Hwy. 76 near Volunteer Fire Dept. Long Creek 864-647-8070
Apples, peaches, canned goods, homemade sweets
March to mid-December
Will ship apples
BRYSON’S U-PICK 1011 Chattooga Ridge Rd., Mountain Rest 864-647-9427
http://www.brysonsappleorchard.com
Apples & Peaches Â
Pressed Cider, Jams & Jellies, honey from their bees, sorghum syrup and seasonal vegetablesÂ
U-Pick or They-Ppicked
August 1 – November 15Â 9
CHATTOOGA BELLE FARMÂ Â 454 Damascus Church Rd., Long Creek 864-647-9768
www.chattoogabellefarm.com
Chattooga Belle Farm is a 138-acre working farm and event venue set among a spectacular canvas of rolling hills and mountain views. U-Pick or They-Picked
Fruit, jams, wines, farm raised angus beef and specialty items
The Farm Store is open daily from 9-5
Belle’s Bistro serves lunch from ll:00am – 2:00pm, Tuesday thru Sunday
GNAT HILL ORCHARD Wall Spring Rd. just off Hwy. 76, Long Creek 864-723-2410
Apples, Blueberries, Peaches, Pecans and vegetables
June through mid-November
HOLLIFIELD’S ORCHARD Hwy. 76 near Long Creek General Store 864-638-3695
4th generation apple grower
Wide variety of apples, apple cider, peaches, homemade apple butter, apple cider vinegar, chow chow, relish, and honey
Seasonal
Our tips:
- Call first to confirm hours and make sure they have apples ready for harvest
- If picking your own, apples on the outside of the tree ripen first, so be sure to look for those
- When picking an apple, roll the apple upwards and twist a little
- If possible leave the stem on as it keeps the apples fresh longer
- Place apples gently in bag or basket to prevent bruising
- Wash apples just before eating to prevent them from spoiling
- Keep apples cool; store in a basement or in the fruit/vegetable drawer of your fridge
- Place a wet towel nearby to create humidity to keep apples from shriveling
- Avoid getting apples wet for longer storage
- Don’t store apples with potatoes, if you do they’ll spoil faster
