Of all the fruits that the state of Georgia conjures up, apples certainly aren't one of them. The state is famous for its delicious, sweet summer peaches, but many people don't realize that the orchards in Georgia are just as fantastic. There's nothing like bringing in the fall season with some U-pick and this year, as many are closing up the peach season, why not try welcoming in a new tradition?

There are plenty of orchards at which to indulge in one's passion for autumn, and they'll surely make warmer fall days feel that much more festive. If nothing else, apple pickers can be comforted by the fact that the same farms that produce the state's most beloved fruit produce apples that are equally as delicious. Plus, who doesn't love a perfect 75-degree Georgia day spent doing something outdoors?

Related: Fall In Ontario: When To Go Apple Picking, And Where To Find The Best Orchards

When To Go Apple Picking In Georgia

Georgia's apples ripen faster due to the warmer temperatures that tend to hang around the southern U.S. well into fall. Because of this, the fall season technically starts a little bit early in regard to apple picking. Orchards start seeing apples ripening during August rather than September, with the U-pick season stretching from mid-August through the following month, and warm temps in which to do so. These warm temperatures continue into October and are the reason why the apple-picking season is so long; crops aren't rushed with the threat of eventual winter frost.

Additionally, the longer season means that some apples will only be ready at certain times, which could occur anytime between the middle of August and the middle of October. Sometimes, certain apples are ready as early as July - depending on the amount of rain throughout the season and the state's weather patterns.

When To Pick Which Types Of Apples

  • July: Gala, Gingergold, Detroid Red, Ozark Gold
  • Early August: Red Delicious, McIntosh, Jonathon, Golden Delicious, Honeycrisp, Empire
  • Mid-August: Jonagold, Mutsu
  • Early September: Stayman Wine Sap, Rome Beauty
  • Granny Smith
  • Early October: Granny Smith
  • Mid-October: Arkansas Black, Fuji
  • Late October: Brae Burn, Pink Lady, Yates

What To Do With The Apples

Certain apples are better for baking while others are great on their own just for snacking. It's a common misconception that every apple makes for a good snack; one wouldn't typically eat a Granny Smith with peanut butter when they have access to a Honeycrisp. Additionally, something such as a Red Delicious apple won't translate as well in a pie as a Granny Smith would due to its soft texture and overall level of sweetness. Therefore, it's just as important to know which apples to use for what purpose while picking - it's the only way to ensure that pickers have the best apples suited for their needs.

  • Best For Snacking: For a tart option, Stayman Wine Sap are the best. For a sweet snack, Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, Golden Delicious, and Red Delicious are the best.
  • Best For Baking: The best apples for holding their shape and pie flavor are Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Stayman Wine Sap, Jonagold, Brae Burn, Rome Beauty, Gala, and Golden Delicious.

What To Know When Apple Picking In Georgia

When it comes to apple picking, Georgia's Northern Mountains is one of the best places to go when finding the best. Not only will pickers have the chance to see some of Georgia's most beautiful landscapes, but they'll also be picking some of the best apples in the state. Many of the farms in this part of the state also offer additional activities such as mazes, wagon and tractor rides, farm markets, nature trails, and freshly baked treats on-site. The most orchards are congregated around Ellijay, which has incredible views of the surrounding mountain hillsides.

Tips For Apple Picking

  • Wear Layers. Just because it's Georgia doesn't mean that the weather won't be chilly during the later months of September and October. Additionally, slightly higher elevations might draw in windy days, in which case, pickers will be happy to have a sweatshirt.
  • Wear Comfortable Shoes. Sneakers are the best option when it comes to U-Pick but comfortable boots are a great alternative. Conditions might be muddy especially if the weather is damp, so good shoes are a must from comfort and protection.
  • Consider Bugspray. Orchards, just like any farm, can be a bit buggy. Bugspray can help keep those of the biting variety away.
  • Wear Sunscreen. Anyone who has spent any amount of time in the Georgia heat will know that the sun is no joke. Pickers might not realize that after only 15 minutes in the sun, they've scored a nasty sunburn; sunscreen is a must whenever an outdoor activity is involved.

Next: The Fall Foliage Map Tells Us That Autumn Is The Best Time To Visit The Smoky Mountains