According to MCC’s Agriculture and Life Sciences Institute, consumers are enjoying local apples earlier this season and at reasonable prices. Many local varieties are already harvested or in the harvesting process presently. The apple crop in the Rochester region is on average one week earlier than the last several seasons. The primary reason for this was above average summer temperatures. Also, a significant amount of growers in the Northeast experienced frost and hail damage during the growing season -- adversely impacting the overall supply of apples in the region.
Despite frost and isolated hail during at the start of the growing season across New York state, prices are mostly unchanged or only increased slightly when compared to last season. This is due to a very competitive market and the close proximity of apple suppliers.
Overall apple quality is considered good to excellent. However, several growers have indicated a slight change in apple color due to warmer than normal temperatures. Many consumers purchase apples based on color, despite color’s little to no impact on flavor. A return to cooler and more seasonal temperatures will produce more favorable color of apples yet to be harvested.
The harvest of varieties such as Macintosh and Honey Crisp are finished, while Cortland and 20 Ounce are still being picked but will soon come to a close. The Empire apple harvest is in full swing, which is often considered the peak of apple season.
Later varieties such as Golden Delicious, Crispin, Idared, and Fuji are soon to be harvested. Rochester’s apple harvest is expected to finish earlier than expected between mid- and late-October depending on location.
For a list of local vendors and pick-your-own operations, visit: <https://www.growmonroe.org>.
Bob King, Ph.D.
Agriculture and Life Sciences Institute
09/29/2010 |