Michigan apple harvest expected to start ahead of normal schedule

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While harvest is still a few months away, the state of Michigan is optimistic for the upcoming apple season. “Overall, the weather has been quite favorable,” says Ken Korson, Apple Category Manager with North Bay Produce. “In our largest growing region however, the Fruit Ridge area, it is a bit dry as most of the storms that came through the state have bypassed The Ridge.” Nevertheless, the weather has been fairly good so far.

© North Bay Produce

Volume similar to 2024
Production volume is expected to be similar to last year when Michigan harvested 1.28 billion lbs. of apples. “At this point, we expect a similar volume this year. In addition, the crop appears fairly uniform, and quality is truly impressive and shaping up beautifully.” However, the weather in the next two months will determine the size of the fruit, which will impact the state’s overall volume. Washington, the U.S.’ largest apple growing state, and New York both have good crops coming as well, barring any weather issues.

Harvest of the earliest varieties usually kicks off in the second week of September. Last year – due to warm spring weather – harvest started about 10 days earlier, in the last week of August. “This year, we are about a week behind last year, but still a week ahead of normal schedule,” commented Korson.

The main apple varieties in Michigan are Gala, Honeycrisp, Fuji, Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, and Macintosh. In addition, the state grows many more varieties, although in smaller quantities. They include Jonathon, Empire, Ginger Gold, Paula Red, Jonamac, Cortland, Pink Lady, Ambrosia, Jonagold, Rome, Ida Red, and Evercrisp.

© North Bay ProduceLeft: Evercrisp apples. Right: Ken Korson, Apple Category Manager.

Exports to Central America
If Mother Nature continues to cooperate, volume and quality combined should offer great opportunities for exports. Michigan has a strong export market, mainly in Central America, and is anticipating a successful upcoming season.

For more information:
Sharon Robb
North Bay Produce, Inc.
Tel: +1 (231) 946-1941
[email protected]
www.northbayproduce.com

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Source: The Plantations International Agroforestry Group of Companies