On the West Coast, apple growers are preparing for a strong harvest.
Despite the positive outlook, industry leaders warn it could take some time for those growers to see the financial fruits of their labor.
“Of course, we’d love to have the supply-demand equilibrium just work out perfectly and, you know, everybody gets the price that they want. But in the world of tree fruit, it can take a while to kind of fine-tune those levels to the point where growers can get the return that they really need,” said Michael Schadler, president of the Washington Apple Commission.
Schadler says the largest issue facing the apple industry this year has been labor.
Related Stories
Prices have steadily increased this year as growers prepare for a slightly smaller crop.
Growers expect good quality as weather-related losses reduce apple supplies in other states.
USDA approves disaster aid for Pennsylvania orchard and specialty crop growers after April freezes caused major crop damage statewide.
Trapani Farms grows nearly 20 apple varieties while expanding its reach through farmers markets across the region.
