Apples are a delicious and healthy treat, full of fiber and low in calories. Whether you have your own orchard or are just visiting a "pick your own" farm, you can easily pick the apples and store them for the winter. When you buy apples in season and store them for the long haul, you can save money over buying just what you need for the week.
Grab the apple and twist it off. The stem likely will come along with the apple; this is OK. Do not struggle to pull the apple off of its branch--if you do, then it's not ready for picking.
Place the apples in a basket gently. Don't be too rough with your apples, as this will cause bruising and will make the apples rot faster.
Place some apples, ones you intend to eat relatively soon, in your refrigerator. Apples will keep in your refrigerator for several weeks.
Wrap each apple individually in newspaper to prevent rotting. If a rotting apple touches another apple, the second apple will start to rot. Cut a large sheet of newspaper into four sections and wrap one apple in each section.
Place wrapped apples in cardboard boxes. Be gentle with the apples to avoid bruising.
Store the apple boxes in your basement. Your basement should be cool enough to preserve them, but warm enough to prevent freezing, which will ruin them.