2025/2026 apple harvest may reach 370,000 tons in São Joaquim

The prolonged winter in São Joaquim, Santa Catarina, remains a decisive factor in strengthening apple production in one of Brazil’s main growing regions. Located at about 1,360 meters above sea level, the municipality consistently records temperatures below 7.2°C, a requirement for proper bud development in several apple varieties. These conditions result in fruit with firmer texture, more intense coloration, and balanced sweetness.

São Joaquim is responsible for roughly 34% of Brazil’s total apple output and 63% of Santa Catarina’s production, according to the municipal agriculture department. Data from the Agricultural Research and Rural Extension Company of Santa Catarina (Epagri) indicate that the 2024 harvest reached approximately 270,000 tons. The planted area has expanded to about 11,000 hectares, and forecasts suggest that production could rise by up to 30% in the 2025/2026 cycle, potentially reaching around 370,000 tons if climate conditions remain stable.

State-level projections also point to strong performance. Epagri’s Center for Socioeconomics and Agricultural Planning estimates that the upcoming harvest in Santa Catarina may reach 615,000 tons, representing a 28% increase compared to the previous year. This growth comes despite a slight decline of 0.3% in cultivated area, as productivity is expected to improve to around 35,700 kg per hectare.

Nationwide, Brazil’s total apple harvest for 2024/2025 is estimated at around 850,000 tons, an increase of approximately 2.16% from the previous cycle. The rise is attributed to improved winter chill hours — a critical factor for bud development. According to agricultural specialists, São Joaquim recorded more than 900 hours of cold weather this year, about 300 hours more than last season, supporting strong flowering and fruit formation.

source: abrafrutas.org, gazetadopovo.com.br

photo: notiserrasc.com.br