Eating apples to stretch out the harvest season

1 ‘Epicure’: For an early pick, this variety will ripen in mid-late August and can be eaten straight off the tree. With a complex, rich flavour, the fruits are produced in abundance. Trees will benefit from thinning to ensure that fruit size is generous.

2 ‘Sunset’: This dessert apple is the one to grow if you like ‘Cox’s Orange Pippin’; it’s an improved form with just as good a flavour, but few of the Cox’s inherent problems. It crops reliably – just remember to thin if large fruits are preferred.

3 ‘Ashmead’s Kernel’: At the other end of the time line, this apple ripens in the middle of October, and matures in storage for consumption through winter. Beautifully aromatic, with a firm flesh and russet skin. Trees spur freely with an upright then spreading habit.