Apple Orchards In Texas For Apple Picking (2024)

Apple Picking in Texas is an awesome way to explore local orchards and savor some tasty homegrown treats!

Check out these orchards that let you pluck your own apples, and guess what? They even sell these delicious goodies right there! Some spots also offer a variety of other fruits and veggies.

Snatch up those apples for a homemade pie or grab some artisanal apple treats from the onsite bakeries. They’re perfect as souvenirs, giving you a true taste of Texas hospitality.

Texas Apple Picking Basket in Orchard | Very Truly Texas

Harvest time usually rolls around in July or August in Texas. Always be smart to peek at the orchards’ updates before your apple-picking adventure. Why? Well, because Texas weather likes to keep us on our toes, affecting crop timing.

Recent years have been a challenge for our Texas apple orchards—freezes, scorching summers, and droughts. It’s been tough for some farms to rebuild their stock, so not all may be ready for visitors. Keep an eye on this page for the latest 2024 updates.

And hey, if apples aren’t your thing, consider checking out strawberry fields, peach orchards, or the vibrant Texas sunflower patches. There’s a lot more to explore beyond just apples!

Sonlight Apple Orchard

• Website: Sonlight Apple Orchard
• Open Hours: Varies seasonally
• Address: 600 Austin Street, Mason, Texas (1.75 hours from San Antonio + Austin)
• 2024 Apple Update: Thanks to the 2022 drought, expect a smaller apple crop in 2024.

Venture to Sonlight Apple Orchard, a haven for pick-your-own apple enthusiasts for nearly a quarter-century. Here, they boast about providing some of the tastiest apples in all of Texas! Surprisingly, their apples pack a natural sugar punch—41% higher than what you snag at your local grocery store!

Quick tip: This farm lacks restroom facilities, but fear not! Swing by the public restrooms at the courthouse, just a hop, skip, and jump away.

Consider extending your orchard experience by checking out their cosy cottage. The Apple Cottage B&B offers charming lodging and a continental breakfast. It’s the perfect retreat for apple enthusiasts!

Nestled in the historic town of Mason, you’ll find more than just apples. With its rich history and quaint, rustic barns, a stroll around Mason promises a dose of small-town charm. And after your orchard adventure, why not try your hand at whipping up some favorite recipes with your freshly picked apples? The possibilities are as endless as the charm of Mason itself.

Love Creek Orchards and The Apple Store

• Website: Love Creek Orchards
• Open Hours: Year-round, 10 am – 5 pm; closed Wednesdays + Thursdays; opens at 9 am on weekends
• Address: 14024 State Highway 16 North, Medina, TX 78055
• 2024 Apple Update: The cold snap took a toll on their crops, and the status of apple picking for the upcoming 2024 season is still up in the air. Keep an eye out for updates to pluck your own apples.

Discover the charm of Love Creek Orchards, a timeless apple orchard that has been welcoming visitors to revel in its apple-laden trees for years. And it’s not just about apples—blackberries and figs also make for popular U-pick choices at this farm.

For a deeper dive into the orchard experience, take a tour of The Apple Store and Love Creek Orchard, available from April to October. July and August mark the prime time for apple harvesting.

When you’re in the vicinity, make sure to swing by their Apple Store Bakery & Café. Why? Because their homemade menu items are downright delectable! With over 50 different items crafted from their apples, leaving without savoring their apple pie would be a missed opportunity. Don’t let that happen!

Read also: Beautiful Sunflower Fields in Texas

Efurd Orchards

• Website: Efurd Orchard
• Open Hours: Open seasonally
• Address: 4004 Highway 271 South, Pittsburg, TX 75686
• 2024 Apple Update: Apples will be available for purchase; the chance to pick your apples is still to be determined.

Step into the warm embrace of Efurd Orchard, where a bounty of delicious produce awaits your arrival. Among their offerings are not just apples but also their renowned peaches, berries, pumpkins, and plums.

Explore their country store for a taste of fresh, local Texas produce. And here’s a tip: Don’t walk away without indulging in some blueberry or peach ice cream. It’s a delightful way to cap off your visit!

As for the apple-picking enthusiasts, keep an eye out for updates on the availability of pick-your-own apples. While that’s still up in the air for now, the chance to bring home some freshly picked apples from Efurd Orchard is certainly an exciting prospect. Stay tuned!

Henrietta Creek Orchard

Tucked away in the charming town of Weatherford, Henrietta Creek Orchard stands as a picturesque escape for those seeking a taste of the apple-picking tradition. The orchard is adorned with rows of Honeycrisp and Gala apple trees, offering a variety of flavors for visitors to savor.

The picking season kicks off at 9 am and continues until 5 p.m. on weekends, providing a relaxed timeframe for families and friends to gather their bushels of crisp, juicy apples. The rustic setting and the sweet aroma of ripe fruit make Henrietta Creek Orchard a delightful retreat for apple enthusiasts.

Eckert’s-Boyd Orchard

Eckert’s-Boyd Orchard, a beacon of agricultural tradition, welcomes visitors to immerse themselves in the timeless activity of apple picking. Nestled in the Texan landscape, this orchard boasts abundant Fuji and Granny Smith apple trees, ensuring a diverse and flavorful harvest.

Operating year-round, except Wednesdays, the orchard offers flexibility for apple lovers to plan their visit. Whether you’re a seasoned picker or a first-timer, Eckert’s-Boyd Orchard promises an authentic and fruitful Texas-sized adventure.

Blessington Farms

Beyond being an apple-picking destination, Blessington Farms stands out as a family-friendly oasis in the heart of Simonton. In addition to apple orchards featuring various apple varieties, the farm offers the opportunity to pick strawberries and blackberries. Open from 10 am to 4 pm, Blessington Farms is the ideal location for a day of wholesome family fun.

Visitors can engage in not only apple picking but also enjoy animal encounters, explore pumpkin patches, and relish the scenic beauty of this charming farm. Whether you’re a couple, a group of friends, or a family with kids, Blessington Farms provides a diverse and enjoyable experience for all.

When can you pick apples in Texas?

In Texas, you can usually start picking apples in July and August.

Do apples grow in Texas? Can you pick apples in Texas?

Texas is home to a variety of orchards that grow not only apples but also peaches, pecans, strawberries, figs, and a diverse range of fruits and vegetables. Among the apples, the most common varieties you’ll come across include Golden Delicious, Red Delicious, and Gala.

FAQs

What is the best date to go apple picking?

The ideal time to go apple picking can vary based on the region and the specific apple orchard. In general, the prime apple picking season typically falls between late August and late October in most parts of the United States.

It’s recommended to check with local orchards or farms for their specific harvest schedules and varieties available. Some orchards offer different types of apples at different times throughout the season, so choosing the best date may depend on your preferred apple variety.

Can you apple pick in Texas?

Yes, you can go apple picking in Texas, but it’s essential to note that the climate in Texas isn’t as conducive to apple cultivation as in some other states.

The apple-growing regions in Texas, particularly in the northern part of the state, have limited varieties available, and the season might be shorter compared to more traditional apple-growing regions.

What season is best for apple picking?

The best season for apple picking is typically in the fall, between late August and late October in most areas of the United States. This period usually offers a variety of apple types at their peak ripeness.

However, the exact timing can differ based on the region and specific apple varieties grown in that area.

Read also: Best Beautiful Flower Farms in Texas for Flower Picking 

Where are the best apple orchards in the US?

Several regions in the United States are renowned for their apple orchards, including the Hudson Valley in New York, New England (particularly in states like Massachusetts, Vermont, and New Hampshire), Washington State, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.

Each region offers unique varieties and experiences for apple picking enthusiasts.

What should I wear to pick apples?

It’s advisable to wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities, such as long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, sturdy closed-toe shoes or boots, and a hat. Additionally, consider bringing sunscreen, insect repellent, and a light jacket or sweater as weather conditions can change throughout the day.

How do you pick a good apple?

Look for apples that are firm, without bruises or blemishes, and have vibrant colors specific to their variety. A good apple should feel heavy for its size and have a fresh aroma. Twist the apple gently; if it comes off the tree easily without much effort, it’s likely ripe and ready to be picked.

Are apples in season in Texas?

Yes, apples are in season in Texas, but the availability and variety may be more limited compared to states with more traditional apple-growing climates. The apple season in Texas typically occurs in late summer to early fall, around August to October, depending on the specific region and orchard.

What apple tree grows best in Texas?

Certain apple varieties are better suited for Texas’ climate and soil conditions, including varieties like Anna, Dorsett Golden, Gala, and Fuji. These varieties are known for their adaptability to warmer climates and can thrive in Texas’ challenging growing conditions.

How much do apples cost in Texas?

The cost of apples in Texas can vary based on the variety, size, and where they are purchased. Generally, prices may range from a few dollars per pound at orchards or farmers’ markets to higher prices in supermarkets, especially for specialty or out-of-season varieties.

Do apples ripen after picking?

Apples do not ripen significantly after they are picked. While they may undergo some minor changes in flavor and texture due to ethylene gas exposure, they won’t become dramatically sweeter or softer. It’s essential to pick apples when they are ripe for the best taste and quality.

What does the term apple picking mean?

“Apple picking” refers to the activity of visiting an apple orchard or farm to hand-select ripe apples directly from the trees. It’s a popular seasonal activity for individuals, families, and groups to enjoy during the apple harvest season.

What is the apple season in Kashmir?

In Kashmir, the apple season typically begins around July and extends through late October. Kashmir is renowned for its high-quality apples, with varieties like Delicious, McIntosh, and Red Delicious being some of the prominent ones grown in the region.

When can you go apple picking in New York?

New York’s apple-picking season usually starts in late August or early September and can last until late October or early November, depending on the weather and the specific apple varieties grown in different parts of the state. It’s advisable to check with local orchards for the exact picking times of preferred apple varieties.

Conclusion

Set out on a flavorful adventure in Texas with our guide to the best apple orchards for 2024! Experience the joy of picking your crisp apples amidst scenic landscapes.

From Sonlight Apple Orchard’s natural sugar-packed apples to Love Creek Orchards’ charming blend of apple, blackberry, and fig picking, each orchard offers a unique experience.

Keep an eye on weather updates and orchard statuses for the latest 2024 insights. Whether you’re a seasoned picker or a first-timer, explore these orchards for a true taste of Texas hospitality.