Harvesting Late Fruit in December: Essential Tips for a Bountiful Winter Harvest

Introduction

December may seem like an unlikely time to harvest fruit, but for those who plan carefully, there are still plenty of delicious fruits to be gathered from the garden and orchard. Late-fruiting varieties, such as apples, pears, persimmons, and citrus, can be harvested well into winter, providing fresh produce even in the coldest months. Knowing when and how to harvest these late fruits ensures they stay fresh and flavorful and can be stored for long periods. This guide will explain which fruits can be harvested in December, how to properly pick and store them, and answer common questions to help you make the most of your winter garden.

Why Harvest Late Fruit in December?

Extended growing season: Certain fruit varieties are specifically bred to ripen later in the season, extending the harvest period into winter. This allows gardeners to enjoy fresh produce even when the garden is mostly dormant.
Optimal flavor: Fruits harvested in December often have had more time to mature, resulting in richer, sweeter flavors. Cold weather can also concentrate sugars, making the fruit taste even better.
Reduced food waste: Harvesting late fruit means you’re making the most of what you’ve grown, reducing waste and ensuring that no fruit is left to rot on the tree.
Better storage options: Many late-harvest fruits are naturally suited for long-term storage. With the right care, you can keep them fresh for months, allowing you to enjoy your harvest well into the new year.

Fruits That Can Be Harvested in December

Here are some common types of late-season fruits that you can harvest in December:

Apples (Late Varieties)

Description: Some apple varieties, such as ‘Braeburn,’ ‘Fuji,’ and ‘Granny Smith,’ ripen in late fall and can be harvested into December. These apples are often firm, crisp, and great for storage.
Harvesting tips: Check that the apples are firm, with a solid color. Twist the fruit gently to see if it releases easily from the tree. If it doesn’t, it may need a bit more time to ripen.

Pears

Description: Pears like ‘Comice’ and ‘Bosc’ can be harvested late in the season. Unlike apples, pears are often picked when slightly under-ripe and then allowed to ripen off the tree.
Harvesting tips: Gently lift the pear. If it snaps off the stem without much effort, it is ready for harvest. Store pears in a cool, dark place to allow them to ripen.

Persimmons

Description: Both astringent (e.g., ‘Hachiya’) and non-astringent (e.g., ‘Fuyu’) persimmons can be harvested in December. They offer sweet, honey-like flavors and are great for eating fresh or cooking.
Harvesting tips: Astringent varieties should be picked when fully soft and orange, while non-astringent varieties can be harvested when they are firm but fully colored.

Citrus Fruits (Oranges, Lemons, Grapefruits)

Description: Citrus trees continue to produce fruit well into winter. Depending on the variety and climate, oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits can be harvested throughout December.
Harvesting tips: Use a pair of pruning shears to cut the fruit from the tree, leaving a small piece of stem attached. This reduces the risk of damage and helps the fruit last longer.

Quince

Description: Quince is a fragrant, hard fruit that ripens late in the season. It is usually cooked before eating and is excellent for making jams, jellies, and desserts.
Harvesting tips: Harvest quince when they are bright yellow and fragrant. They should be firm but not rock-hard. Handle gently to avoid bruising.

How to Properly Harvest Late Fruit in December

Harvesting late-season fruit requires a bit of care to ensure the fruit stays fresh and undamaged. Here’s how to do it:

1. Choose the Right Time of Day

Best time to harvest: Pick fruit in the late morning or early afternoon, once the dew has dried but before the temperatures get too warm. This helps reduce moisture on the fruit, which can lead to quicker spoilage.
Avoid harvesting in wet conditions: Wet fruit can attract mold and bacteria, so it’s best to wait for a dry day to pick your fruit.

2. Use the Proper Tools

Pruning shears: For fruits like citrus and quince, use pruning shears or scissors to snip the fruit from the tree, leaving a short stem. This prevents damage to the fruit’s skin.
Fruit pickers: If the fruit is out of reach, use a long-handled fruit picker to carefully retrieve it. This helps prevent bruising, which can lead to quicker spoilage.

3. Handle Fruit Gently

Minimize handling: The less you handle the fruit, the better. Rough handling can cause bruising, which makes the fruit more prone to rot.
Use soft containers: Harvest into soft, padded baskets or containers to prevent bruising. If stacking fruit, use layers of newspaper or cloth to cushion them.

Storing Late-Harvest Fruits for Longevity

Proper storage is key to ensuring that your late-harvest fruits last as long as possible. Here’s how to store different types of fruit:

1. Apples and Pears

Cool, dark storage: Store apples and pears in a cool, dark place, ideally at temperatures between 30-40°F (-1 to 4°C). A basement or unheated garage works well.
Avoid contact: Store fruit in a single layer, or wrap them individually in newspaper to prevent them from touching. This reduces the risk of one bad apple spoiling the bunch.

2. Citrus Fruits

Refrigeration: Citrus fruits can be stored at room temperature for about a week, but for longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator. They can last up to 3-4 weeks when kept cool.
Avoid moisture: Moisture can lead to mold, so make sure the fruit is dry before storing. Keep citrus in a breathable bag or basket.

3. Persimmons and Quince

Countertop ripening: Persimmons can be left on the countertop to ripen, especially if they are still a bit firm. Quince should also be stored in a cool, dry place.
Short-term storage: If you want to keep them for a longer period, store in the refrigerator in a breathable bag or container.

Common Problems When Harvesting Late Fruit in Winter

Harvesting fruit in December can come with a few challenges. Here’s how to address them:

Frost damage: Keep an eye on the weather. If frost is predicted, try to harvest as much as you can before the frost sets in, or use protective covers to shield the fruit.
Pests: Even in winter, pests like birds and squirrels may target your late fruit. Use netting or deterrents to keep them away.
Over-ripening: Check your fruit regularly. Overripe fruit can attract pests and spoil quickly. Harvest as soon as the fruit reaches its peak ripeness.

Benefits of Harvesting Late Fruit in December

Fresh, home-grown produce: Enjoy fresh fruit from your garden even during the colder months, without relying on store-bought options.
Better flavor: Many late-harvest fruits develop richer flavors due to longer ripening times, making them sweeter and more aromatic.
Cost-effective: Growing your own fruit reduces the need to buy expensive, out-of-season produce. Plus, storing your harvest properly allows you to enjoy it for months to come.

Best Practices for Harvesting Late Fruit in December

Harvest regularly: Check your trees and bushes regularly to harvest fruit as soon as it is ready. This prevents over-ripening and ensures you get the best quality.
Inspect for pests and diseases: Be vigilant about checking for signs of pests or disease, and address any issues promptly to prevent them from spreading.
Plan for storage: Before harvesting, ensure you have a suitable place to store your fruit. Proper storage is key to making your harvest last.

Common Questions and Answers About Harvesting Late Fruit in December

Can I harvest apples and pears in December?

Yes, late varieties like ‘Granny Smith,’ ‘Fuji,’ and ‘Bosc’ can be harvested into December. Make sure they are firm and twist easily from the tree.

How do I know if persimmons are ready to pick?

Astringent persimmons should be fully soft and orange, while non-astringent varieties can be harvested when they are firm but fully colored.

What’s the best way to store late-harvest fruit?

Store fruit in a cool, dark place. Apples and pears can be wrapped individually in newspaper, while citrus should be kept in a breathable bag in the refrigerator.

Can I pick fruit after a frost?

It’s best to harvest before a hard frost, as frost can damage the fruit. If a light frost has already occurred, check the fruit for damage and harvest any that are still good.

How should I handle fruit to prevent bruising?

Handle fruit gently, use soft containers, and avoid stacking. If stacking is necessary, cushion layers with newspaper or cloth.

Can I harvest citrus fruits in December?

Yes, many citrus fruits, including oranges, lemons, and grapefruits, can be harvested throughout winter. Use pruning shears to clip them carefully.

Should I wash fruit before storing it?

No, it’s best to store fruit unwashed. Washing can introduce moisture, which can lead to mold. Wash fruit just before eating.

How can I tell if my apples are overripe?

Overripe apples will have a soft texture and may start to wrinkle or develop brown spots. If you notice these signs, use them immediately or discard.

Do I need to refrigerate all late-harvest fruit?

Not all. Apples and pears are fine in a cool, dark place, but citrus and persimmons can benefit from refrigeration for longer shelf life.

How long can I store late-harvest fruit?
- With proper storage, apples and pears can last for several months, while citrus fruits can last for a few weeks to a month. Persimmons are best consumed within a couple of weeks.