Apple trees should not be fertilized in the fall.

Harvesting Apples - Except for winter storage varieties, apples should be picked when fully ripe. Winter storage types should be picked while they are slightly under-ripe. One indication of an apple nearing ripeness is the darkening of its seeds. To avoid pulling out the stem when you harvest, cup the apple in your hand, tilt it upward, and twist to separate it from the spur at the point of attachment. It is important to not damage the spur.

Storing Apples – Store apples in a cool place where the humidity is high enough to prevent shriveling. Storage time will vary greatly by variety. You can improve winter storage duration by dipping harvested apples in a warm solution of calcium chloride. This technique is most effective for improving apple keeping if the apples and solution are warm (around 65°F) rather than cold (around 35°F). Be sure that there is some air circulation in the area where apples are stored.