Knowing how to store apples correctly is useful if you’ve had a particuarly bountiful harvest from your apple tree. Rather than overloading the fruit bowl, an apple rack is visually pleasing and very practical. Take our advice on how to store them correctly to give you plenty of time to make your favourite crumble.

If you’re looking for something different to do with your apples rather than another pie, take our advice on how to make cider and juices at home. Cider is enjoying a real comeback and it is very simple to make yourself. But before you start any home baking project, make sure you know how to judge pectin levels in fruit.

HOW TO STORE APPLES CORRECTLY

Last year we were given a wonderful apple rack on which to store our apples. Being a novice in this area I just placed them in the rack and left them. We were surprised how quickly many rotted or their skins discoloured. How can I prevent that this year?
SS, by email

Once picked, the apples should keep for a few weeks and in many cases months when stored in the right condition. They prefer a consistently cool, dark and slightly damp environment. To keep the fruit in good condition wrap each apple individually in greaseproof paper, carefully folding the paper round the fruit, holding it gently so that it is not bruised, then place the apple (folded end of the paper down) in the rack. If wrapping the apples seems too much of a chore, then check them regularly, removing any that show signs of disease or rotting. Some apples tend to shrivel when stored this way and these may keep better when stored in a plastic bag. Make several holes in the bag before filling to a maximum weight of 3kg, loosely seal the bag and store in a cool, dark environment.