Allotment Gardening Advice Help Chat

Growing => Grow Your Own => Topic started by: Kevin_000 on January 21, 2020, 17:05

Title: Can I pick my apples early - before the Squirells eat them?
Post by: Kevin_000 on January 21, 2020, 17:05

Hi
The last two Autumns I waited until my apples were just right. And, the squirrels took the lot before I got to them. Two five year old trees, a Cox Orange Pippin and a Kidds Orange Red.

Because the lower branches are so accessible it is not possible to stop them with netting.

I am thinking of picking them just before they are ready.

Would that work?  After ripening off the tree would they be any good?

Any advice welcomed.

TIA

Afterthought: My neighbour has a huge sweet tasteless variety... They don't do more than nibble a few of them... I've learned two things. Squirrels are experts on ripeness and they have good taste.

Title: Re: Can I pick my apples earlt - before the Squirells eat them?
Post by: juvenal on January 21, 2020, 19:58

As ripening time approaches, I've found daily inspection is needed for the first very distinctive teeth marks of squirrels to appear on one or two fruit.

The owner of those teeth will be off to tell his mates to be up next day bright and early with their apple sacks at the ready....

But you've already spotted the marks...

You immediately harvest the lot and get them to safety!