If you’re in the market for a new orchard ladder, you’ll want to make sure you pick the best model for your needs.
Your orchard ladder will support your total body weight 10 feet in the air, so you’ll want one that is strong, durable, and built to last.
But you’ll likely be moving it around and potentially using it seasonally. In that case, your orchard ladder must also be easy to carry and store.
There are a lot of different factors to consider! So, if you want a hand choosing the perfect orchard ladder for you, keep reading.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall
Louisville Ladder
Budget Option
GameGen Step Ladder
Best Telescoping
Bowashen Telescoping Ladder
Best Overall Orchard Ladder
Louisville Ladder
In the top spot for the best orchard ladder is the Louisville Ladder.
This fiberglass tripod ladder stands 12 feet tall and has a 300-pound capacity, perfect for working outside in your garden or orchard.
The top rung features a recessed tray, a magnet tray, a paint bucket holder, and various tool slots to house any tools you need within comfortable reach.
It’s a bit more expensive than other models, and though it does fold up nicely, it can be a bit cumbersome to store and transport.
But, with sturdy spreader braces and durable materials, the Louisville Ladder is a tough and dependable tool to have around.
Pros
- Great for outside and inside use
- Can fold up for storage purposes
- Sturdy and durable
Cons
- Difficult to move around
- The steps are a bit narrow
- Expensive
Budget Option Orchard Ladder
GameGen Step Ladder
For a more affordable orchard ladder option, the GameGen Step Ladder is an excellent choice.
It’s made of lightweight aluminum, allows for a reach of up to 12 feet, and is equipped with a safety handrail.
The GameGen ladder supports a load of up to 300 pounds. The pedal is wide and thick for safe usage to ensure stability and durability.
It comes fully assembled and stores away super easily. Unlike similar step ladders, the GameGen folds up almost flat and is very lightweight (only weighing 14 pounds), perfect for seasonal storage.
Pros
- Reasonably priced
- Easy to transport and store
- Deep, wide steps for stability and safety
Cons
- Not a heavy-duty ladder
- It does not include a storage tray
Best Telescoping Orchard Ladder
Bowashen Telescoping Ladder
If you’re in the market for a telescoping orchard ladder, the Bowashen is a great option.
Telescoping ladders, sometimes called extension ladders, are perfect if you need to work at different heights and move around a lot. Thus, they’re very well suited for a role as an orchard ladder.
- This particular telescoping ladder allows you to reach up to 20 feet with a maximum capacity of 300 pounds. It has sturdy detachable hooks for extra protection.
- When folded down, the ladder is only about three and a half feet tall, which is super convenient for storage.
- However, it is a bit heavy compared to other models, weighing 36 pounds.
Though a telescopic ladder is perfectly stable when correctly set up, it could be dangerous to use if not fully locked into place. But overall, the Bowashen Telescoping Ladder is an excellent choice for your orchard ladder.
Pros
- Compact and convenient to store and transport
- Inexpensive
- Adjustable and customizable for many different needs
Cons
- Unstable if all locking mechanisms aren’t functional and in place
- Easy to catch your fingers in the different latches
- Steps are narrow and far apart
Choosing the Perfect Orchard Ladder: Buyer’s Guide
Durability
For orchard ladders, you’ll be standing at tall heights outdoors. The ladder will support your full weight up to 12 feet in the air while subject to the elements.
As such, you’ll want your orchard ladder to be super durable.
Look for strong materials that aren’t likely to rust, like fiberglass.
Price
When your safety is at stake, it’s worth investing money in a good product. Orchard ladders can cost hundreds of dollars.
While that may seem steep, you certainly don’t want a cheap ladder supporting you while standing on the top rung working on your trees.
Height
Remember, the ladder’s height isn’t the true height you can reach.
If a ladder is 12 feet tall, you can reach another 5 feet or so using your own height and arm span.
So, if you need to reach up to 20 feet, you’ll want a 15-foot ladder.
Storage
Proper storage is crucial in preserving the life of your orchard ladder.
Look for a ladder that folds up or collapses for easy storage!
Mobility
If you’re looking for a ladder to use in an orchard, you’ll likely want one that is easy to move from tree to tree.
One that is too heavy and too tall would be challenging to transport.
However, a ladder that is too short and light might not be sturdy enough for outdoor use. You’ll want to find some middle ground and research ladders that would work best for you.
Orchard Ladder FAQs
How do I store my orchard ladder?
Most orchard ladders are made of metal or have some metal components. As such, they’re potentially prone to rust.
You’ll want to store your ladder somewhere safe and dry, like a garage or garden shed. Thankfully, most ladders will fold up nicely for easy storage!
How often does an orchard ladder need to be replaced?
Depending on how you use them, ladders can last for decades!
However, outdoor ladders are subject to more wear and tear from weather and the elements.
Orchard ladders are tall, and a fall from one could really injure you, especially if you’re outside. At the first sign of structural wear, you should consider replacing your orchard ladder.
Do I need a tripod ladder?
Not necessarily! While tripod ladders are notably sturdy and easy to set up, there are other options.
Telescoping ladders are also excellent for orchard ladder usage because of their customizable height and easy transportation.
But, they require more skill and familiarity with this type of equipment to use properly.
Long story short, you have ample options to choose from for your orchard ladder.
How to Choose the Perfect Orchard Ladder: Final Thoughts
For the overall best orchard ladder, check out the Louisville Ladder!
But don’t fret – if it doesn’t fit your needs, there are so many other orchard ladders to look into.
For more information on choosing the best equipment, check out our post all about garden tools!
- About the Author
- Latest Posts
Leah is a writer, editor, and content manager with Minneopa Orchards and holds a master’s degree in English.
She grew up in the south and enjoyed long growing seasons spent in her father’s lush vegetable garden. Buying produce from the store was unheard of in her house!
As such, Leah enjoys writing about gardening and sharing her knowledge and experiences with others.
Leah can be reached at leah@applepiemedia.net