Fruit trees, especially apple trees, are a fantastic addition to your emergency food plan. They provide shade, food, and are relatively easy to maintain. Learn how to grow, store, and preserve apples to ensure a continuous food supply.
Benefits of Growing Apple Trees
Homegrown apples are an excellent addition to any food reserve. Apple trees can thrive in various climates, especially those with cold winters and moderate summers. With over 10,000 varieties, apple trees range in size from 10 to 30 feet tall and can yield over 100 pounds of fruit per year. Many apple trees live over a century, making them a long-term food source.
Storing Whole Apples
Apples are one of the best fruits for long-term storage. With the right conditions, they can last for months without rotting. The key is to keep them in a cool, dark, and humid environment, ideally around 35°F.
Methods for Storing Apples
- Refrigerator: Place apples in a plastic bag with holes and store them in the crisper drawer with a damp paper towel. Avoid mixing with other produce to prevent premature decay.
- Cold Storage Room: If you have a cool basement, wrap each apple in newspaper and store them in containers. This method helps prevent decay from spreading.
Freeze-Dried Apples
Freeze-drying is a growing trend for preserving apples. By using a freeze dryer, you can retain the flavor and nutrients for long-term storage. Simply slice the apples, freeze-dry, and store them in an airtight container with an oxygen absorber for the best results.
Canning Apples
If you have an abundant apple harvest, canning is an excellent way to store them for the long term. Water-bath canning is ideal for high-acid foods like apples. Here’s a simple recipe to preserve your apples through canning.
Water-Bath Canning Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 to 5 pounds of apples
- 2 1/4 cups of sugar
- Cinnamon sticks
- 13 1/4 cups of water
- 1/2 cup of lemon juice
Steps
- Prepare a simple syrup by whisking sugar into 5 1/4 cups of water, then bring it to a boil until sugar dissolves. Add a cinnamon stick for flavor.
- In a separate bowl, mix 8 cups of water with 1/2 cup lemon juice. Peel, core, and slice the apples, and place them in the lemon water to prevent browning.
- Reduce heat to low for the syrup. Strain the apples and add them to the syrup, then bring to a boil for about 5 minutes.
- Fill sterilized jars with apples and syrup, removing air bubbles. Close jars with sterilized lids.
- Process jars in a boiling water bath for 30 minutes (adjust for altitude if needed).
More Resources
For further reading, check out these resources:
Watch: Apple Preservation Techniques
Learn how to can apples by watching this instructional video.
