The Portland, Maine area is an exceptionally charming destination for apple enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in all aspects of apple picking and enjoyment. The picturesque orchards within and around Portland provide the perfect backdrop for a leisurely day of exploring, tasting, and gathering some of nature’s most versatile and beloved fruits. This journey will take you from discovering the best apple orchards and varieties available in the region, to learning apple picking techniques and the art of preserving and cooking with apples, and finally delving into Portland’s vibrant cideries and apple-themed activities that will undoubtedly enhance your appreciation for this timeless fruit. Let the Maine apple adventure begin!
Thompson’s Orchard
Thompson’s Orchard, located in New Gloucester just 30 minutes from Portland, ME, is a family-owned and operated farm boasting a variety of apples and homemade treats. Since 1906, visitors have been coming to this picturesque orchard to pick their apples of choice, which include McIntosh, Cortland, Macoun, and Honeycrisp, among others. Prices for apple picking are budget-friendly, and they also offer tractor rides and a farm store selling fresh apple cider, doughnuts, jams, and other local products, ensuring a delightful experience for the whole family.
Apple Acres Farm
Another excellent destination for apple enthusiasts is Apple Acres Farm in Hiram, situated about an hour’s drive from Portland. This scenic orchard is nestled among rolling hills and offers a wide selection of apples such as Zestar, Ginger Gold, and Northern Spy. With a pay per pound pricing system, guests can pick as many apples as their heart desires without breaking the bank. The on-site farm-to-table restaurant serves delicious, seasonal dishes, and the store is filled with unique gifts and various apple products, including homemade pies, butter, and crisps.
Wolfe’s Neck Center for Agriculture and the Environment
Don’t miss out on Wolfe’s Neck Center for Agriculture and the Environment, a unique and beautiful destination just a 20-minute drive from Portland. This non-profit organization not only offers apple picking but also serves as an educational center dedicated to sustainable agriculture and environmental education. With a variety of apples available for picking, visitors can wander through the orchards while learning about the importance of sustainable farming practices. There is no entry fee to the land, but visitors are encouraged to donate to help support their initiatives.
Libby & Son U-Picks
Libby & Son U-Picks, located in Limerick, ME, is well worth the 45-minute drive from Portland. This family-friendly orchard is well-known for its stunning views, delicious apples, and wide selection of other fruit options such as blueberries, peaches, and raspberries. Here, you can indulge in over 14 different apple varieties, including classics like Red Delicious, Granny Smith, and more unique options like SnowSweet and Shizuka. The orchard also hosts various family events throughout the season, such as live music, face painting, and wagon rides, making it an ideal destination for all ages.
Discover Apple Picking at Five Fields Farm
For a delightful apple picking experience near Portland, Maine, venture to the historic Five Fields Farm in Bridgton, located just over an hour away. This unique orchard not only offers apple picking, but also adds a twist with a chairlift ride to the top of the property. Passengers are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Upon reaching the summit, visitors can pick from an array of apple varieties, such as Gravenstein and Liberty, before descending down the mountain. Don’t forget to visit their on-site farm stand, where they offer freshly-pressed cider and warm apple cider doughnuts, providing the perfect ending to a beautiful day exploring Maine’s apple orchards.
Best Apple Varieties in and around Portland, ME
At Five Fields Farm and the surrounding Portland, Maine area, you’ll find an impressive assortment of apple varieties to enjoy from late summer through early winter. One of the most popular apples for picking in Maine is the McIntosh. With its tangy flavor and tender flesh, it’s a favorite for snacking and baking. The McIntosh apple is typically ripe for picking in early September, coinciding with the back-to-school season.
Another popular choice for apple pickers in the Portland area is the sweet and juicy Honeycrisp, known for its large size and satisfying crunch. This variety, perfect for eating fresh and incorporating into desserts, typically reaches its peak season from mid-September to early October. Whether you’re at Five Fields Farm or visiting other nearby orchards, be sure to try an assortment of these scrumptious apple varieties during your Maine apple picking adventure.
Fall Apple Varieties
As the fall season progresses, several other apple varieties burst onto the scene. The Cortland apple, known for its bright white, slow-to-brown flesh, is perfect for using in salads, pies, and other dishes that require fresh apple slices. Cortland apples ripen from mid-September to early October, around the same time as the popular Macoun. Macoun apples are a versatile variety, loved for their fresh, sweet-tart flavor, and crisp texture. This variety is ideal for cooking, baking, and enjoying fresh, making it a favorite among apple enthusiasts.
In addition to these classics, several heirloom varieties can be found in the Portland region, many of which have been growing in New England for centuries. Some examples include the aromatic, spicy-sweet Roxbury Russet and the ribbed, wine-like Baldwin, both of which ripen in late October and early November. Heirloom apple varieties often have unique flavor profiles, colors, and shapes and can offer a delightful alternative to more common apple varieties.
Harvest Season and Farming in Portland
Apple picking season in the Portland, Maine area typically starts in late August and runs through November, with various apple varieties ripening at different times throughout the season. A visit to local orchards and farms exposes you to a wide range of apples available in the region, each offering their unique flavor and texture to suit diverse tastes and preferences.
Participating in local agricultural events such as apple festivals, tastings, and cider-making workshops expands your knowledge of Portland’s apple varieties and their uses. Many farms offer ‘U-Pick’ apple picking experiences, allowing you to gather the freshest apples right off the tree. By immersing yourself in the region’s agricultural heritage, you’ll find fascinating stories behind each apple variety, revealing a flavorful adventure waiting to be explored.
Apple Picking Techniques and Portland Orchards
Apple picking is an enjoyable and rewarding activity for people of all ages, and Portland, Maine is home to a plethora of orchards to discover. The key to a successful apple picking experience starts with understanding the proper techniques for selecting and picking apples. Doing so ensures that you collect the best quality fruit while minimizing any potential damage to the trees.
As you combine the knowledge of harvesting seasons, apple varieties, and proper picking techniques, your apple picking outings in the Portland area will be filled with rich experiences, connecting you with the local agricultural community while providing a delightful adventure for the senses.
Dress Appropriately
Before embarking on your apple picking adventure, it’s essential to dress appropriately for the occasion. Wear comfortable clothing and footwear to allow for easy maneuvering through the orchard. Don’t forget to bring a sturdy basket or bag for collecting the apples, as well as sunscreen and bug repellent to stay protected while outdoors. Checking the weather beforehand is crucial, as it can impact both your safety and the quality of apples you’ll pick.
Choosing the Best Apples
When selecting apples, it’s important to remember that they ripen from the outside in. This means that you’ll typically find the ripest fruit on the outer edges of the tree. Ripe apples should be firm, have uniform coloring, and a slight give when gently pressed. Avoid picking apples that have bruises, are soft, or show any signs of decay. Additionally, be patient as some apples ripen earlier in the season than others. Timing your outing to coincide with the specific apple variety’s peak ripening will ensure the best picking experience.
Proper Picking Technique
Proper apple picking technique involves gently placing your hand around the apple and twisting it with an upward motion. This will ensure that the apple separates easily from the tree without causing any damage. Avoid tugging or pulling on the apple, as this can lead to broken branches or other tree damage. Remember to be gentle when placing apples in your basket or bag to prevent bruising the fruit.
Group Activities
When planning an apple-picking adventure in Portland, Maine, it’s essential to consider the interests and abilities of all members of your group. Many orchards in the area offer additional activities suitable for all ages, such as corn mazes, hayrides, and petting zoos. Plan your outing so that everyone can enjoy a variety of activities throughout the day to ensure an enjoyable and memorable experience for everyone involved. Beyond its beautiful scenery and numerous orchards, Portland also offers unique opportunities to explore its thriving apple scene.
Exploring Portland’s Apple Scene
Portland, Maine offers a unique opportunity for apple enthusiasts and hobbyists to indulge in a variety of activities surrounding the beloved fruit.
One such activity that combines the art of fruit-picking and drinking is visiting cideries. Many local Portland farms and orchards have on-site cideries, where apples are transformed into delicious, alcoholic beverages. Local favorites include Urban Farm Fermentory, which not only produces cider but also kombucha and mead, and Norumbega Cidery, a small, family-owned business crafting hard cider from Maine-grown apples.
In addition to enjoying cider straight from the source, you can also visit one of Portland’s many tasting rooms to sample an array of craft beverages. These venues often host special events and tastings, allowing you to try various ciders from around the region and beyond. This can be a great way to discover new flavors and learn about different cider-making techniques. Little Tap House, a local bar and restaurant, features a rotating selection of craft ciders on draft and frequently collaborates with local cider producers for one-of-a-kind tasting events.
Apple-themed activities and festivities can make for a memorable day in and around Portland. Each fall, the city hosts the popular Apple Fest, where you can enjoy live music, local food, and cider vendors, family entertainment, and more. Be sure to check other local events calendars for apple-centric gatherings such as “Pick Your Own” days at various orchards and farms, or the annual Maine Apple Day, a celebration of the history, flavors, and culture of apple cultivation in Maine.
When visiting Portland during the harvest season, be sure to plan an apple picking trip to one of the many apple orchards in the area. Whether you’re picking apples for eating, cooking, or pressing into cider, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from. Some top local favorites include Libby & Son U-Picks, situated in a beautiful hilltop location, and Thompson’s Orchard, known for its vast selection of apple varieties.
For those seeking a complete apple experience in Portland, consider combining your trip to a cidery and tasting room with an apple picking adventure. Many fruit farms and orchards are located near cider tasting venues, allowing you to make a day of exploring the apple offerings in the region. One prime example of such a location is Brackett’s Orchard, which offers pick-your-own apples during the harvest season and is in close proximity to Liquid Riot Bottling Company – a brewery, distillery, and eatery offering scrumptious ciders and apple-based drinks. This well-rounded approach to exploring Portland’s apple scene will not only allow you to indulge in flavorsome ciders but also appreciate the journey from tree to glass.
Preserving Apples After Apple Picking
Proper storage is crucial for maximizing the shelf life and maintaining the taste of your freshly-picked apples in Portland, ME. For immediate use, simply place the apples in a cool, dry place (30-35°F). To extend the shelf life:
- Wrap each apple individually in newspaper or kraft paper to seal in freshness and prevent bruised areas from affecting other apples.
- Discard any apples showing signs of spoilage.
Following these simple storage tips, the apples you picked during your visit to Portland’s orchards and cideries can be enjoyed for an extended period. This allows you to prolong the delightful experience of the city’s abundant apple scene and savor the tastes and memories long after you’ve returned home.
CANNING APPLES
Canning apples retains their natural sweetness and texture. Follow these simple steps:
- Wash, peel, core, and slice the apples.
- Prepare a light syrup mixture of sugar and water and bring it to a boil.
- Pack the sliced apples into clean, hot jars and pour hot syrup over them, leaving half-inch headspace.
- Wipe jar rims clean and place lids on before processing in a water bath canner.
Canned apples are perfect year-round as a topping on desserts, mixed into oatmeal, or for use in baking recipes like apple pie and apple crisp.
FREEZING APPLES
Freezing apples is another excellent preservation method that allows you to enjoy their fresh taste in the months following your apple picking trip:
- Peel, core, and slice the apples, tossing with a mixture of lemon juice and water to prevent browning.
- Pack apples in airtight containers or ziplock bags and stack in freezer for easy access.
Frozen apples are perfect for use in recipes such as apple sauce, smoothies, and baked goods throughout the year.
DRYING APPLES
Drying apples is an old technique which allows you to have a ready-to-eat, healthy snack anytime:
- Thinly slice the apples, removing the core, and treat slices with lemon juice or anti-browning solutions.
- Arrange slices on dehydrator trays or oven racks, making sure they are not overlapping.
- Dehydrate in food dehydrator or oven set at a low temperature (around 140°F) until apple slices are fully dried.
Dried apples can be enjoyed as a stand-alone snack or can be rehydrated for use in baking and cooking projects.
INCORPORATING APPLES INTO RECIPES
Apples are versatile and can be incorporated into both sweet and savory recipes:
- Classic recipes such as apple pie, apple crisp, and applesauce are always family favorites.
- Apples can be included in savory dishes like roast pork with apples and onions, or apple and kale salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
- Experimenting with different preparations and preservation methods will surely enhance the appreciation for this versatile fruit.
Unlocking the delights of Portland’s apple bounty is a genuinely gratifying experience for enthusiasts and hobbyists alike. Exploring the abundant orchards that blanket the countryside, learning the ins and outs of apple picking, savoring the unique qualities of each variety, and diving into the world of apple-inspired culinary creations and local events, it’s no wonder that the allure of apple picking in Portland, Maine, has endured the test of time. So go on and embark on your very own apple journey in Portland; rich in natural beauty, flavors, and experiences that are surely not to be forgotten.