On Sunday afternoon, we had a wonderful time apple-picking at Fishkill Farm in upper state New York. There were six of us, with one bag for the apples. This has become a yearly tradition for us, as we make it a point to attend a U-pick event every harvest season.
We drove over 70 miles, paid for entrance tickets and bags, and enjoyed the experience. I remember a relative once asked me whether it was “合算” (hé suàn), meaning "worth it" or "cost-effective" to go apple-picking. After all, the total cost can easily reach $100, which could buy a lot more apples from a store.
Apple-picking practices take place at orchards during harvest season. Many orchards open their farms to the public for "U-pick" events, where visitors can pick their own apples directly from the trees. After attending these U-pick events many times, I now see apple-picking as a perfect win-win situation for both families and farmers. It’s a fantastic way to spend time outdoors while also helping reduce food waste.
For Families and Visitors:
1. It is both a fun and learning opportunity. There are always plenty of families with small children. While it's fun to taste apples fresh off the tree, it's also an educational experience. Kids learn about seasons, agriculture, and where their food comes from. I remember a Chinese child once thought milk came from the supermarket! After apple-picking, they’re much less likely to make that mistake.
2. This hands-on experience helps children (and adults) connect with the source of their food, fostering a deeper appreciation for farming and sustainability.
3. It’s a special opportunity for families to bond and have quality time together. Apple-picking has become a seasonal tradition for many, offering shared moments that create lasting memories.
4. You don’t get to eat freshly picked apples every day. These apples are packed with nutrients, making the experience both delicious and health-promoting.
5. It feels good to know you’re supporting local farms. Your participation helps sustain small farms and contributes to the local economy.
For Farmers:
1. Harvesting a large orchard is labor-intensive and time-sensitive. By inviting the public to pick apples, farmers get help with the workload, which is especially valuable for small or family-run farms.
2. Each time we visit, we see fallen or overripe apples on the ground—there just aren’t enough hands to harvest everything. Visitors help minimize waste, ensuring that more apples are put to good use and supporting more sustainable farming practices.
3. U-pick events also serve as a form of marketing and exposure for farmers. Families often spread the word about their experience, attracting more visitors. Farmers can also sell additional products like cider, pies, and jams, creating additional revenue streams.
In conclusion, the apple-picking experience is beneficial for everyone involved. It promotes education, sustainability, community engagement, and supports the local economy. It’s a beautiful blend of recreation, learning, and making a real-world impact!