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MCC Daily Tribune Archive

Above-Average Temperatures Affect Fruit Growers


WXXI-Radio, WROC/Fox and WHEC recently interviewed Bob King, Ph.D., of MCC's Agriculture and Life Sciences Institute, regarding the impact of recent above-average temperatures on local fruit growers.

Dr. King reported that, with area temperatures rising 15 degrees above average and most ornamental fruit trees already in bloom, fruit growers in Greater Rochester are taking steps to protect orchards. For our area, apples usually go into bloom in the early part of May. 

We are anywhere from one to two weeks ahead in bud growth (green tip) on most apple varieties. This doesn’t mean they will bloom early if temps return to more seasonal. However, it does mean that, at green tip, most orchards will have to spray to prevent disease, increasing costs significantly.

Based on local growers and field personnel:

* Most ornamental fruit trees are in bloom in backyards and neighborhoods; this is because they are further inland and may experience micro climates.

* Some apple varieties such as Ida Red in Orleans County are reportedly in pink and soon will go into bloom.

* For peaches and pears they are swollen, but not showing color.

* Sweet cherries around the lake are about a week ahead, this crop may fair better in terms of avoiding frost damage. 

* Apricots are in partial or full bloom at least three weeks ahead of average.

Historically a severe frost is not likely to occur after May 1 in the principal production areas. Since 1940, 18 percent of growing seasons in western New York have experienced a yield loss of 20 percent or more due to frost. Trees more inland are more likely to experience severe frost during bloom.

Bob King, Ph.D.
Agriculture and Life Sciences Institute
04/20/2010