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.
Strong ethanol output supports corn demand despite export weakness.
April 17, 2026 10:00 AM
·
Strong crush margins — now at multi-year highs — are encouraging processors to expand production.
April 17, 2026 09:00 AM
·
Trade disputes can quickly reduce demand for key crops.
April 16, 2026 11:15 AM
·
CoBank Lead Energy Economist Teri Viswanath discusses their analysis of rising energy costs, rural impacts, and the outlook for fuel prices amid ongoing global uncertainty.
April 15, 2026 03:33 PM
·
Arkansas Farm Trail Passport brings visitors to operations across the state, like Horton’s Produce & More, where strawberry harvest focuses on quality over quantity.
April 15, 2026 01:22 PM
·
The analysis models how trade disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz may continue to drive up the cost of fertilizer.
April 15, 2026 01:10 PM
·