How One Apple Tree Can Feed a Family

This week at Nurturefy CIC we harvested an incredible 45kg of apples from just one tree in our garden. It’s a great reminder of how much food even a single fruit tree can provide – and how nature gives generously if we care for it.

From tree to table

Apples are one of the most versatile fruits you can grow. From sweet desserts to savoury chutneys, they can keep a family well-fed through autumn and winter. With 45kg, you could make:

• Dozens of hearty apple crumbles (BBC Good Food recipe here)

• Jars of spiced apple chutney to enjoy with cheese or meats (recipe)

• Apple pies, muffins, and even soups that use up surplus fruit (recipe's here)

Storing your apples

If you’re lucky enough to have a big harvest, don’t worry – apples store well if handled carefully:

• Choose carefully: Only store apples that are free from bruises or damage.

• Cool and dark: Keep them in a cool shed or fridge, ideally at 3–5°C.

• Separate layers: Wrap each apple in newspaper and store in a single layer in a cardboard box.

• Check often: One bad apple really can spoil the bunch, so remove any that start to go soft.

To peel or not to peel?

You don’t always need to remove the skins:

• For crumbles, pies, and chutneys, skins add flavour and nutrients.

• If you prefer a smoother texture (like in sauces or soups), peel them first.

• Remember – a lot of the fibre and vitamins are in the peel, so keep them on when you can.

Why this matters

One apple tree shows how growing your own food can reduce costs, cut waste, and bring families together in the kitchen. It also connects us to the seasons and reminds us how powerful local growing can be for food security.

So next time you see apples going spare – whether in your garden, a neighbour’s, or even foraged – think about how much good food can come from just one tree. 🍏💚