Don Burda is the owner of Woodstock’s Homestead Orchard, which offers 15 varieties of apples and pears. Joe Lewnard/jlewnard@dailyherald.com, 2021

Autumn is less than a month away, and with it comes a favorite fall activity — apple picking.

And from what we’re hearing, apple lovers should have their pick of fruit at area orchards.

“Our apple crop is looking great this year,” said Sarah Bell, owner and manager of Royal Oak Orchard in Harvard. “The apples are sizing well and looking to be right on schedule with ripening.

“We have stayed clear of any major storm or frost damage this year, which has been a blessing. Apple picking should be strong from the end of August through the end of October.”

Sam Haywood of Kuipers Family Farm in Maple Park is looking forward to the season.

“We hav

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