As summer ends, apple trees are full of fruit ready to pick. If you have your own tree, learning the right time and way to harvest will help you enjoy the best apples.

You should inspect your apples at least once a week. Hold an apple in the palm of your hand and gently lift and twist. A ripe apple will come away from the branch easily with its stalk intact. Never force it. If the apple resists your gentle twist, it’s not ready yet, so leave it on the branch and check again in a few days. Picking apples that are not quite ripe means they will never achieve their full flavor.

If you want to store apples, handle them gently and choose only those without bruises or marks. Even a tiny flaw can cause the whole batch to spoil. Store perfect apples in a cool, dark, slightly damp spot like a garage or cellar. With the right care, they can last for months.

You don’t have to throw away apples that fall to the ground. While they won’t last in storage, they’re great for eating or cooking right away. Try using them in pies, crumbles, or applesauce. If you have a lot, you could rent an apple press to make fresh juice, which you can bottle and enjoy later.