Fruit and Tree Nut Outlook Shows Mixed Crop Forecasts

Crop-specific shifts and strong prices highlight the variability of this year’s fruit and tree nut harvest, according to USDA data.

almond trees_adobe stock.png

Ripe almonds nuts on an almond tree ready to harvest.

Adobe Stock

WASHINGTON (RFD-TV) — The USDA’s latest fruit and nut reports show both gains and setbacks for 2025 crops.

Apple production is forecast at 11.5 billion pounds, up six percent from last year, with Washington expected to hit a record 8 billion pounds.

Pears are also rebounding, rising 22 percent from 2024’s historic low. Even so, pear output remains among the smallest on record.

In contrast, peaches are expected to reach 682,500 tons, a four-percent decrease from last year. California, South Carolina, and Georgia all project smaller crops. U.S. grape production is forecast at 5.59 million tons, up 3 percent, with stronger wine grape harvests in California and Oregon offsetting declines in Washington.

Other highlights include a nine-percent decrease in cranberry production to 8.13 million barrels, a 10 percent decline in table olive production to 44,000 tons, and an 18 percent increase in walnut production to 710,000 tons. Tight almond supplies and firm nut prices are expected to persist into the fall.

Tony’s Farm-Level Takeaway: While apples, pears, grapes, and walnuts show strength, peaches, cranberries, and olives are weaker. Crop-specific shifts and strong prices highlight the variability of this year’s harvest.
Related Stories
The Mosaic Company field solutions agronomist Tryston Beyrer recommends comprehensive soil testing, balanced nutrient management, and strategic fertilizer spending to protect soil productivity while making the most of every input dollar.
Drought Shifts Across Regions As Fall Fieldwork Continues
All eight major fertilizers remain more expensive than a year ago, according to DTN.
RealAg Radio’s Haney said broader geographic membership, professional facilitation, and a strong commitment to confidentiality can help build trust and create opportunities for better financial and operational decision-making.

Tony St. James joined the RFD-TV talent team in August 2024, bringing a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to RFD-TV and Rural Radio Channel 147 Sirius XM. In addition to his role as Market Specialist (collaborating with Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady to provide radio and TV audiences with the latest updates on ag commodity markets), he hosts “Rural America Live” and serves as talent for trade shows.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

The unanimous verdict marks a legal victory for Bayer as thousands of Roundup lawsuits remain unresolved.
A new federal order expands livestock grazing to help reduce wildfire risk and improve rangeland health.
Months of restricted shipping have left traders watching closely for signs that Russian commodity exports are resuming.
Additional border crossings could bring more Mexican feeder cattle into the U.S. market following trade restrictions.
The funding could expand domestic fuel supplies, though lower diesel prices are not guaranteed.
EPA estimates the proposed changes could save $45 billion in regulatory compliance costs.
Even a wet winter may not be enough to restore water supplies across drought-stricken western states.
Some smaller feedlots are already empty as operators struggle with limited cattle availability.
Higher fertilizer and financing costs are putting pressure on Brazilian producers.
Federal payments are keeping farm income elevated despite weaker earnings from agricultural markets.
The department has not released new details on how individual agencies or offices will be affected.
Delaying equipment purchases may offer little relief as repair and financing expenses continue rising.
Agriculture Shows
Agriculture is the most important industry in the world, and Ag PhD Daily brings you the information you need to best manage your business only on RFD-TV and RFDTV+
Hosted by Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady, Commodity Talk on RFD-TV and Rural Radio SiriusXM Channel 143 delivers expert insight into today’s agricultural commodity markets just before the CME opens.
A look at the news, weather and commodities headlines that drove agriculture markets in the past week.