Apples Picking / Packing
Need to Earn Some Money While Travelling in Australia? Pick Some Apples!
Apples the most beloved and popular fruit of all time can be found in Australia. An apple has been dubbed as the “king of fruit” based on the fact that it has been in existence since 6500 B.C. and is the favorite among the Greeks and Romans.
We’ve all heard the term “An apple a day keeps a doctor away” and it’s because this fruit is packed with vitamins and minerals. It is a good source of vitamin C and vitamin B-complex. Apples are also a good source of fiber and potassium.
Australia grows different varieties of apples – 11 to be precise – and it includes Jonathan, Royal Gala, Golden Delicious, Red Delicious, Jonagold, Fuji, Braeburn, Cripps Pink, Granny Smith, Jazz, and Cripps Red.
There are several states in Australia that produces apples – Stanthorpe in Queensland, Orange and Batlow in New South Wales, Goulburn Valley in Victoria, Perth Hills, Manjimup, and Donnybrook in Western Australia, Houn Valley in Tasmania and Adelaide Hills in Southern Australia.
The harvesting season for apples usually starts in February and depending on the variety, harvesting season last through June. Royal Gala, Golden Delicious and Red Delicious apples are harvested during February while Fuji apples are ready for harvest in March. Other varieties like Cripps Pink, Granny Smith and Jazz are harvest-ready during April.
While it is true that apples are one of the easiest fruit to pick, it is important to note that working on an apple orchard will require you not only to pick the apple but to pack it as well. There might be some climbing involve especially if the apple trees are tall. It can also be tiring, just like any other job out there. It is better to prepare yourself for long hours under the sun and always remember to use the proper techniques in picking apples.
Here are some tips that you may want to know in picking apples:
Use a ladder and then twist the apple stem. Do not be afraid to ask questions if this is your first time to pick apples. It is important to know when apples are ready to be harvested. Ask an expert farmer or you can simply test it. Try cupping the apple with your hand and gently twist the stem. If it comes off easily then it is ready to harvest, if not, then you better wait when it’s ready. Being an efficient apple picker could mean a bigger pay check.
Dress properly for the job. Keep in mind that you are going to be working under very hot conditions. It is important to keep yourself cool and hydrated. Wear sturdy footwear and be sure stay protected under the sun. Broad hats are a must as well as long sleeves and long pants. Sunscreen can be handy too.
After picking, comes the storing and packing of the apples. Again, ask questions because apples, depending on the variety and the season, should be store separately. Some needs to be delivered to stores right away, while some can be stored until winter as long as the apples are kept in cool place.
