How Long Do Apples Last? Best Way to Store Apples, Keep Them Crisp & Avoid Mistakes
Apples are one of the easiest fruits and vegetables to keep fresh, but their shelf life depends heavily on how you store them. Many gardeners and home cooks wonder: How long do apples last? The good news is that with the right storage approach, fresh apples can last weeks—or even months—without losing flavor or crispness. In this guide, you'll learn how long apples last in the fridge, how to store apples for long term storage, and the most common mistakes to avoid.
If you grow your own apples or are planning to plant a tree, browse our selection of popular bare root apple trees to enjoy fresh apples straight from your garden.
How Long Do Apples Last?
The shelf life of apples depends on the variety and storage conditions. Some apple varieties naturally store longer than others.
Room Temperature Storage
When stored at room temperature, fresh apples usually last about 5–7 days before they soften.
Refrigerator Storage
So, should you refrigerate apples?
Yes—refrigeration makes a huge difference.
How long do apples last in the fridge?
Most apples stay fresh 4–6 weeks when stored properly in the crisper drawer, while long-keeping varieties—like Fuji, Granny Smith, Honey Crisp, Golden Delicious, Golden Russet, and Arkansas Black Spur—can last 2–3 months or more. This is why grocery stores always keep apples cold.
If you prefer smaller trees to harvest at home, see our compact dwarf apple trees for easier maintenance and long-keeping fruit.
Best Apple Varieties for Longer Storage
Some apples stay crisp longer due to their texture and sugar/acid balance. The best ones from our catalog to highlight in your article include:
Fuji Red Apple Tree / Dwarf Fuji
Known for long storage life—stays crisp up to 3 months.
Granny Smith Apple Tree / Dwarf Granny Smith
Excellent for long term storage due to high acidity.
Honey Crisp Apple Tree / Dwarf Honey Crisp
Stores well when refrigerated, stays crunchy and juicy.
Golden Delicious Apple Tree / Dwarf Golden Delicious
Holds texture in cold storage and works well for baking.
Arkansas Black Spur Apple Tree
One of the longest-storing heirloom varieties.
Golden Russet Apple Tree
A top choice for winter storage and long-lasting sweetness.
To learn more about choosing the right apple for your garden, explore our guide on thousands of apple varieties.
Should Apples Be Stored in the Refrigerator?
Many people ask should apples be stored in the refrigerator? or do apples need to be refrigerated? The short answer: Yes. Storing apples cold slows ripening and keeps them crisp.
- Longer freshness
- Better flavor
- Less browning
- More time to cook or enjoy fresh apples
So if you’re wondering do you refrigerate apples? or should you keep apples in the fridge?—the answer is always yes for the longest shelf life.
This is why most apple storage guides recommend keeping apples stored in the refrigerator instead of on the counter.
How to Store Apples for Long Term Storage
If you want apples to last months, follow these steps:
Use the Crisper Drawer
The crisper keeps humidity stable so apples stay fresh longer.
Store Apples in a Single Layer
Stacking can cause bruising, leading to faster spoilage.
Wrap Each Apple Individually
Gently wrapping each apple in paper helps prevent ethylene gas from speeding ripening.
Choose the Right Varieties
Long-keepers like Arkansas Black Spur, Fuji, Granny Smith, Honey Crisp, Golden Russet, and Golden Delicious are ideal for cellaring or fridge storage.
Use a Root Cellar if Available
A classic root cellar (32–40°F) is one of the best ways for long term storage.
Prevent Browning in Apple Slices
Dip apple slices in lemon juice before storing or freezing. See our guide on how to stop apples from turning brown for more tips.
Should Apple Pie Be Refrigerated?
Yes—should apple pie be refrigerated? If it contains sugar only, apple pie can sit out for one day, but storing it in the fridge keeps it fresh longer.
If the pie contains eggs or dairy (like custard fillings), refrigerate it immediately.
The same applies to apple pie filling for fruit pie recipes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Storing Apples
Keeping apples on the counter for too long
They soften quickly at room temperature.
Storing apples near bananas
Bananas release ethylene gas, which speeds ripening.
Not separating damaged apples
One bruised apple can spoil the rest.
Washing before storage
Moisture encourages mold—wash just before eating.
Using bags with no ventilation
Plastic bags trap moisture unless perforated.
Conclusion
Knowing how long apples last, especially when refrigerated, helps you avoid waste and enjoy crisp fruit longer. How long do refrigerated apples last? Most varieties stay fresh for several weeks, and long-keeping apples can last months.
Whether you buy apples or grow your own, using proper storage methods—like the crisper drawer, single-layer storage, and cool temperatures—ensures your apples stay fresh for weeks or even months.
