As you see, the gnarly architecture of the “wild” (abandoned or self-seeded) apple trees is starting to appear now like an intricate mystery slowly revealed. Although many of their leaves are drying and dropping, most of their apples seem to be vibrant and hanging on tightly.
It seems to have been an exceptionally good year for these wizened elders, despite our drought.
(Images taken in Brooklin, Maine, on October 14, 2026.)