The commencement of pear harvesting in California is anticipated in mid-July, starting with the earliest varieties. Despite challenges posed by the weather during the growing season, the industry maintains a positive outlook on the crop's potential. Chris Zanobini, executive director of the California Pear Advisory Board, has forecasted a decrease in production compared to the previous year, with Bartletts expected to see an 18% reduction and other varieties a 16% decline. "The late rains were the biggest factor" in affecting yields, Zanobini explained to Farm Press, attributing the extended bloom period to the spring showers.
Harvesting is scheduled to start on July 15 in the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta, a region responsible for producing approximately two-thirds of the state's pears, including Bartlett and Red Bartlett varieties. Subsequent production will commence in the Mendocino area around August 5 and in Lake County by August 12. The total output is anticipated to exceed 2 million boxes, featuring 510,000 boxes of Golden Russel Bosc pears and organic variants of Bartlett and red pears, which are increasing in demand.
Zanobini highlighted the strong market demand for California pears across both fresh and cannery sectors, attributing the optimism to favorable growing conditions that promise high quality, well-sized, and flavorful fruits. Additionally, it was noted that California pear shippers refrain from using pre-ripening agents on their fruit, adhering to research findings that suggest treated pears do not ripen adequately at home.
Source: farmprogress.com