Crab apples are ready to pick from around the end of September until the beginning of November. The exact time of harvest depends on the variety of crab apple as well as regional climate conditions.
Crab apples are ripe when they begin to fall from the trees, which means that the fruit must be gathered quickly before deer and other creatures discover them. The easiest way to harvest them is to grab a big basket and put it under the tree. The harvester can grab a branch that seems to be loaded with apples, shake the branch and place the fallen apples in the basket. It is easier to pick crab apples with a partner.
Most crab apple varieties turn bright red when they are ready to be harvested. They make excellent jams, jellies and pies.