As opposed to Washington, the US East Coast is enjoying good apple production numbers this season. “Both New York State and Pennsylvania have good crops,” says Tim Mansfield with Sun Orchard Fruit Co. The growing conditions were very good and as a result, the crop’s total volume is expected to be above average this season. “There should be enough fruit available to keep our customers supplied through summer,” added Mansfield.
Sun Orchard Fruit is enjoying good demand for all varieties. Gala, Honeycrisp, and McIntosh have a good flavor and high Brix levels, which help with storability. A newer variety, Pazazz, is also doing very well. “With one of the parents being Honeycrisp, this variety is crunchy and juicy and has a more complex flavor,” he said. Pazazz is gaining traction and Mansfield feels confident this variety will do well in the next few years.
However, not all new varieties will make it. “With so many new varieties entering the market, it is a tough deal. The shelves are so crowded, resulting in retailers having to rationalize.” To even judge interest for a new variety, critical mass is needed. As a result, time and money is invested in planting new trees, but some new varieties just won’t make it. “We are also seeing older varieties like Braeburn and Jonagold losing traction and gradually disappearing from the shelf as they have to make room for new varieties.”
Reduced exports
Not only are new apple varieties changing the dynamics in the industry, also the reduction in trade is. “For more than 30 years, we’ve been exporting the Empire variety, a cross between McIntosh and Red Delicious, to the United Kingdom. “However, things are getting squeezed out and in the past five years, we’ve noticed a real decline in exports. The numbers are less and less each year.”
For more information:
Tim Mansfield
Sun Orchard Fruit Co.
Tel: +1 (716) 778-8544
[email protected]
https://www.sunorchardapples.com