Our Harrelson apple had an amazing crop this year. Unfortunately, the apples were hailed on twice and pretty scarred up. Luckily, the Zestar also had a great crop, and I was able to use those to freeze apples for pies and crisp.
The apples had to be picked, because they were harming the tree. Also, the turkeys were landing in the trees breaking branches as they were trying to get to the apples. What does one do with two bushels of apples?
I made hard apple cider and apple cider. Out of 2 bushels I ended up with 4 gallons of apple juice. I cut up the apples and boiled them, then used the fruit press to eke out the last of the juice. The best part was I could do it outside and when I was done, just hose everything off.
My flowers are looking pretty good. I got this geranium on sale for $2.50. It is fabulous. My Grandma used to have red geraniums in the windowsills of her classroom. I will always remember that.
The deer are under this oak every morning. I'm sure the acorns taste good since the lawn has been fertilized and watered.
It isn't just the deer, the turkeys have also been regular visitors. It is fun to watch the fawns play with the turkeys. Once in a while, even a doe will get in on the fun.
I don't have much else to share. I was pretty busy with all of those apples. The beekeeper came and thought my hives will end up with over 100 lbs. of honey. That is tremendous.
What do you do with your apples? Did you have any big fall harvest projects this weekend?
Our apple crop has been a failure this year and only a handful of plums which I put down to a cold spring.
ReplyDeleteOh my Gosh, what an apple haul! I wish I still lived in apple country, I miss all those delicious apple treats like apple butter, cider, fritters and just plain fresh, local apples. And 100#'s of honey?!? Do you sell it, or just stock it & share it?
ReplyDeleteI think the deer listen for an apple to fall. You will enjoy those pies and crisps when the snow flies. 100# of honey. Wow! homegrown honey is the best they say and helps prevent seasonal allergies.
ReplyDeletewow, that sure is a lot of apples. i don't have apple trees so i don't have to worry about that but it's good to have a lot of friends when you have that many apples. such pretty flowers!!
ReplyDeleteFor many years we made an annual trek to Apple Hill around Placerville, CA. It was probably the happiest time of my year. Friendship abounded, crafters were set up at every farm and orchard. Autumn was in the air. To this day, it's one of my favorite memories.
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