Apple tree and unripe fruit - pick?

McShe

We planted an apple tree in September. It was loaded with fruit when planted but the apples haven't grown or ripened enough to be ready to pick. The birds are having a field day. Should I leave the fruit on the tree for the birds or pick it? Does either have an impact on how it will produce fruit next year?

Thanks.

Chunkycw

did you buy one apple tree or more? the reason you had apples on it when you bought it was bcoz it was with other trees in the nursery or garden centre. if you only bought one tree, it won't get pollenated and will not bear fruit next year. But to answer your original question, it won't do any harm to pick the apples and if any of them are still intact you could leave them inside on a window cill and they might ripen for you. but if you leave them on the tree it won't affect future crops!

McShe

There are apple trees in the garden next door so we're hoping they'll work for pollination. Either that or I'll be shopping for another tree!

Chunkycw

that should do the job for you!