Apples: 2021 harvest expected to increase by 2.3%

Despite the heat wave this summer which raised fears for apple production, the latest harvest estimated indicate an increase of + 2.3% compared to last year in the state of Washington (northwestern United States).

 

WSTFA (Washington State Tree Fruit Association) estimated the apple harvest at 124.8 million 40 lb (18.14 kg) cartons. This represents an increase of + 2.3% compared to the 122 million boxes compared to the 2020 harvest but a variation of -7.2% compared to the 134.5 million boxes of the 2019 harvest.

 

According to Jon DeVaney, president of the WSTFA, the 2021 harvest would have been bigger without the heat wave in early summer. Pointing out that apple trees, like humans, get a little lethargic above 100 ° F (37.7 ° C).

 

Regarding varieties: Gala is expected to reach 21% of total production, Red Delicious 16%, Honeycrisp and Granny Smith 14%, Fuji 13%. The Cosmic Crisp variety should be 3% and the Cripps Pink variety 6%.