Hello everyone!🍎🍏
With autumn officially here, it’s time to dive into the season’s most cherished activities. Apple picking is a fantastic way to gather with friends and family, enjoy the crisp fall air, and immerse yourself in the vibrant community spirit. Whether you’re looking to fill your basket with fresh, hand-picked apples or prefer to pick from pre-selected options, SDG County has a variety of orchards to explore.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the best apple orchards across Stormont, Dundas, and Glengarry, highlighting everything from family-friendly farms to scenic spots perfect for a relaxing day out. We’ll provide tips on the best times to visit, what to bring, and how to choose the juiciest apples. Get ready to make the most of this apple-picking season and stock up on the freshest and yummiest apples around. Enjoy the adventure and the bounty of fall!
Applestock Orchards
Since its humble beginnings in 2013, the family business has blossomed into a cherished passion project that they are thrilled to share with our vibrant community. Nestled just a short drive south of Ottawa, in the picturesque and historic region of North Dundas, their orchard is a welcoming destination for everyone.
Here, fun awaits visitors of all ages. With low-hanging branches, picking your own apples is an easy and enjoyable experience for the whole family.
They open every day from 9 AM to 5 PM, and we encourage you to bring your own reusable bags to help reduce waste. Apples are sold by the pound, so you can gather as many as you like!
Head over to Applestock Orchards for delicious apples and a fun-filled activity. https://applestockorchard.com/
Cannamore Orchards
Cannamore Orchard, located in the charming town of Crysler, is the ideal spot for enjoying a day outdoors amid a stunning array of apple varieties. While the pick-your-own apple season for 2024 has ended, you can still purchase pre-picked apples indoors, available at $12 per 4-litre basket.
Be sure to mark your calendar for next season and visit early to savor the full apple harvest before the trees are bare. Cannamore Orchard offers an impressive selection of 12 apple varieties, ranging from mild and tart to crisp, sweet, and nutty.
Their store is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. For details on the current apple varieties available, visit their website https://www.cannamoreorchard.com/apples
Marlin Orchards and Garden Centre
Founded in 1964, the Marlin family’s humble apple farm has blossomed into a cherished community cornerstone. Their apples are carefully handpicked and stored in refrigerated rooms to ensure they retain their exceptional freshness and unique flavor for you to enjoy when you visit the store.
They invite you to experience the joy of picking your own apples on select weekends. For dates and details, please visit their Facebook page at Marlin’s Orchard. You can also explore their website for a comprehensive list of apple varieties, including recommendations for eating, cooking, and storing.
Throughout the season, the variety of apples available will vary with the harvest, making each visit a new experience. In addition to apples, Marlin’s Orchard is also the perfect place to pick pears and plums!
Open 7 days a week from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Mountain Orchard
Purchased in 1973, the Lyall and Hobson families embraced the challenge of running an orchard and brought their dream to fruition. With over 10,000 trees in their care, this orchard is a sight to behold. But it’s not just about apple picking—bring the whole family and enjoy wagon rides, straw jumping, corn mazes, and so much more.
Mountain Orchard boasts over 10 different varieties of apples, available at various times from mid-September to mid-October. To see which apples are in season, check the “What’s Picking” section on their website: Mountain Orchards What’s Picking.
Visit them Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and on weekends from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m!
Smyths Apple Orchard
Nestled in the historic Dundela region, Smyths Apple Orchards is a family-run business with roots tracing back to the mid-1800s. It was here in this region that John MacIntosh discovered an apple tree in his backyard, leading to the birth of the famous McIntosh apple.
At Smyths Apple Orchards, you can enjoy the experience of picking your own apples, delve into the fascinating history of apples in the area, and browse a variety of delicious treats available in their store.
Their open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with pre-picked apples also available for purchase. For more information, visit them on Facebook: Smyths Apple Orchard.
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Are you looking to pick the perfect apple? Here are some tips to help you get it just right. Apples ripen from the outer branches toward the trunk, so if you’re unsure about an apple’s ripeness, focus on those located furthest from the base of the tree. Once you’ve found the apple you want, gently lift it upwards and give it a slight twist to release it from the branch. Avoid pulling the apple straight away from the tree. Also, be careful not to shake or climb on the trees, as this can damage them and affect future growth.
In addition to apple picking, many orchards will soon start their pumpkin picking season. This provides another fantastic opportunity to create lasting memories with family and friends. Whether you’re searching for the perfect pumpkin for your porch or looking for seasonal activities to enjoy together, these local orchards have something for everyone.
Happy Picking!🍏