RichmondRound

The apple harvest in Richmond upon Thames

The apple harvest in Richmond upon Thames is here. Trees in back gardens across Ham, Kew, and Twickenham are heavy with fruit. You might have a Bramley dropping into the grass or a Cox tucked behind the shed. This is the moment to pick before the wasps claim them all.

Timing matters. An apple ready to harvest will twist off easily in your hand. If you have to yank, leave it another week. Store the best ones in a single layer on newspaper in a cool shed or garage. Check them weekly and pull out any that soften. One bad apple really does spoil the rest.

You will almost certainly have more than you need. Neighbours appreciate a bag left on the doorstep. Local food banks take windfalls if they are still firm. Some people press them into juice or stew them down for freezing. Others just leave a box by the gate with a sign saying help yourself.

The season is short. Pick now.

What do you do with your surplus apples? Share your favourite ways to use them.

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The Bench

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