Michigan's apple industry is set to harvest 30.5 million bushels (1.281 billion lbs.) in 2024, as revealed during the USApple Outlook meeting in Chicago. This forecast exceeds the state's average annual production, marking a notable trend of increasing yields. Diane Smith, executive director of the Michigan Apple Committee, attributes this to the adoption of high-density orchards and innovative cultivation practices, which are expected to sustain the growth in crop sizes.
In 2023, the state harvested 31.9 million bushels, with an average yield of about 25.9 million bushels annually. Michigan boasts over 14.9 million apple trees across 34,500 acres, managed by 775 family-operated farms. The early onset of warm temperatures this year prompted a premature bloom in May, yet the absence of severe frost and freeze events post-bloom has facilitated an abundant harvest, ready approximately 10 days ahead of the usual schedule.
Smith emphasizes the collective aim among Michigan apple growers to produce apples of superior flavour and quality. This is achieved through collaboration with tree fruit researchers and the integration of advanced technologies for monitoring cultivation conditions. The estimation process for the harvest size involves comprehensive reporting by growers and experts, assessing various factors such as weather, bloom conditions, and tree health.
Michigan apples, the state's most valuable fruit crop, are accessible from August to June at around 150 farm markets and cider mills, as well as over 12,000 retail outlets nationwide.
Source: michiganapples.com