When is it OK to Pick Someone Else’s Fruit Trees? Ever strolled past a neighbor’s tree and wondered if that juicy fruit was fair game? You’re not alone. A recent informal survey by the Los Angeles Times asked 855 readers this very question. Here’s the juicy scoop on when it’s okay to pick someone else’s fruit, sprinkled with some humor and a dash of common sense.
The Public vs. Private Dilemma
- Public Street or Sidewalk: 50% of respondents said it’s perfectly fine to grab fruit if it’s hanging over a public street or sidewalk. So, if those apples are dangling temptingly over your morning walk route, go ahead and help yourself.
- Your Yard: 49% believe it’s fair game if the fruit-laden branches are hanging into their own yard. After all, your space, your rules, right?
- Public Alleyway: 34% think fruit hanging in a public alleyway is up for grabs. Just be wary of any suspicious onlookers.
- Never: A stern 19% declared it’s never okay to pick someone else’s fruit. These folks probably have well-behaved pets too.
Fallen Fruit – To Pick or Not to Pick?
- Neighbor’s Tree into My Yard: 62% are cool with picking fruit that falls from a neighbor’s tree into their yard. It’s practically a gift from the tree.
- Public Street or Gutter: 51% said picking up fruit from the street or gutter is acceptable. Just watch out for those local dogs marking their territory.
- Accessible Ground Fruit: 30% are fine with picking fruit lying on the ground if it’s easily accessible from the street or sidewalk.
- Never: Only 8% would never pick up fallen fruit. They might just have a thing for spotless lawns.
Asking Permission – The Polite Approach
When it comes to picking fruit from seemingly neglected trees:
- Knock and Ask: 60% believe it’s best to knock on the door and ask the owner if you can take some fruit. It’s a great way to make friends and avoid being caught on a home security camera.
- Leave it Alone: 28% think you should do nothing and let the owner decide what to do with their fruit.
- Take a Few Pieces: 21% said it’s okay to take one or two pieces if they’re easy to reach.
- Help Yourself: A rebellious 11% would take whatever they can reach. Because, why let good fruit go to waste?
Fruit Gleaning Etiquette
For those with overflowing fruit trees:
- Share with Passersby: 54% suggest picking the fruit and leaving it for others.
- Donate: 52% recommend donating to shelters or food banks.
- Put Up a Sign: 48% think putting up a “Help Yourself” sign is the way to go.
- Gleaning Organizations: 32% would contact organizations like Food Forward to harvest the fruit for donation.
Legal Gray Areas
The law is a bit murky. Technically, a tree and its fruit belong to the property owner. However, if fruit falls into your yard, you’re within your rights to take it. For fruit hanging over public spaces, the law is less clear, but common sense and courtesy should prevail. When in doubt, just ask!
Remember the kindergarten rules: Be kind and share. And if you’re not sure, just knock on the door and ask. You might end up with a new friend and a basket of fresh fruit.
🌐 Sources