You Pick or We'll Pick
54757 Hwy. 52, Sabula, Iowa 52070 (563) 687-2298
U-Pick
You can pick your own apples at Gravert's! Enjoy the freedom to stroll around the orchard looking for that perfect apple. We have a wide choice to select from each week.
Apples ripen at different times, from Zestar in early September to Pink Lady which ripens in late October.
In order to get you an apple that is at its peak of flavor, we will help you find which one to pick.
Here is how it works:
* Go to the front counter, and request U-Pick. Our sales help will
guide you to the maps and bags.
* The sales help will mark which varieties are ripe that day. It also
will be on our phone and on the home page.
* The orchard is marked with row signs that show a number on the front, and the variety on the back. At the front table, we will give
you a map that shows the whole orchard. The map is marked with
the row signs. We'll mark the rows in yellow that are ripe and ready
to be picked!
* You decide what size of bag and how many you want to buy -
we have two sizes, 1/2 peck (apx. 5 lb.), and 1/2 bushel (apx. 22 lb.).
* You go out and pick - fill the bags that you buy - and you're done!
* See map below parking information.
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How to Pick an Apple
Pointers and rules:
* To pick an apple, take the apple in one hand, and the stem in the other and twist the apple up. You should have the fruit and
maybe the stem. The little wood part that the stem grows out of is called a spur - that is where next year's apple will
grow! So please try to leave the spur on the tree. If you have a leaf, you have the spur.
* A red apple is not necessarily a ripe apple. Please keep to the varieties that are marked. We look at the inside of the apple
when choosing which ones for you to pick. The inside seeds should be black.
* A full bag is when you can grab both handles and lift without an apple falling out. If you are balancing them to keep them
in, please buy another bag.
* Do not climb trees or pull the branches down. They break easily, and they grow slow.
* Do not dump apples if you pick too many and don't want them. Bring them up to the store and we'll take them back.
* There are bees - lots of them! If you are allergic to bees, be very careful.
* Do not pick up apples that are on the ground. They might look good, but they probably have dirt on them and goodness
knows what else. We cannot sell apples that have been on the ground for health reasons.
* You can visit the animals, but be aware that small fingers can get bit. The horse and donkey can't see the hand that feeds
them. Please stay away from the cattle. They are not tame.
* Do not go in the animal pens or cross any fences.
* This is a working farm, be aware of tractors, and please do not go into fields.
* Take your time - sometimes the first trees get picked heavy, and the nicest ones are still in the center. Go on a treasure hunt
til you find that perfect apple!
