Last year, the plum harvest was spectacular for Apifood. This year, the company expects to harvest around 80% of its potential. "After two years of hail, last season's volumes were very high. This year, we are experiencing some alternation, which explains the drop in volumes. We expect to reach 70% of our potential for American-Japanese and 90% for European varieties," explains Eric Tastayre, managing director of the company.
Some questions about European varieties
These rather satisfactory predictions will be confirmed in two weeks' time. "The figures are still subject to confirmation, as we still have to see if the European varieties will hold up. So far, we are confident that they will. Some questions remain about the Reine-Claude plums. We also hope that we will not suffer any hail damage, although we are quite serene since most of our growers' orchards are protected."
Less thinning and a more balanced market
At the moment, 3,000 tons of plums are expected for the 2024 season, compared with 3,600 tons last year. Volumes are lower, so sizes will be a little more balanced than last year, with less thinning to do, which will incur fewer labor costs. The market should also be a little more balanced, which is essential if growers are to be properly remunerated. Last year, the market was not very dynamic in the face of such a large quantity of plums, and this inevitably had an impact on prices."
Ideal weather conditions for plums
In terms of quality, everything looks good for the time being. "It is hot at the moment and we also have rain. These weather conditions are catastrophic for cherries, which burst on the trees, but they are ideal for the growth of plums. June will be decisive for sugar levels. Although it is still too early to give precise figures with any certainty, the French plum season is looking pretty good this year!"
For more information:
Eric Tastayre
Apifood
Bâtiment administratif
Marché Gare
82030 Montauban
Phone: +33 5 63 20 22 50
Mobile: +33 6 07 59 03 75
[email protected]
apifood.com