Experts from the Landesanstalt Weinbau und Gartenbau (LWG) in Veitshöchheim have reported adverse effects of a late April frost on Bavarian plums, forecasting a harvest reduction of 30 to 40 percent. Despite this, assurances have been made that plum availability will remain sufficient. Franconia has commenced early variety harvesting, with main varieties expected in mid-July, accelerated by a mild winter and aided by spring rainfall.
Significant damage was observed in Franconia, where early varieties suffered frost damage. Harvesting will start in Unterfranken, followed by Oberfranken. Franconia, particularly the Forchheim district and around the Main river bend, is responsible for about 90 percent of Bavaria's plum production, utilizing around 340 hectares. The region has seen a halving of cultivation area over the past 25 years, primarily due to a lack of succession in farming operations.
The plum, ranking third after apples and sweet cherries in fruit tree cultivation importance, faces challenges in market perception. The emphasis on durability over taste has led to premature harvesting, affecting the fruit's sweetness and aroma. To combat this, the LWG is launching a campaign to enhance the plum's image, featuring Franconian inns offering plum-based dishes. The campaign will kick off at the Obstbauinformationszentrum in Hiltpoltstein, showcasing the fruit's versatility through various plum products.
Source: aussiedlerbote.de