Strong regional apple crop for midwest
“Typically, apple blossoms are on the trees around Mother’s Day,” says Fred Wescott, president, Wescott Orchards, Elgin, MN and part of the 26-grower Mississippi Valley Fruit Co. (MVFC),. “Right on time this year, the bloom is one of the earliest signs of how the trees fared during winter and what this seasons’ apple crops will look like. Mother Nature, of course, always plays a role, but all signs right now point to a strong growing season over the summer and early fall.”
Early regional varieties now in full bloom include locally grown Zestar and RiverBelle with Cortland, MacIntosh, Gala, Honeycrisp and Pazazz to follow within the next week. Reports from a cross section of orchards in southeastern Minnesota and Western Wisconsin confirm that apple trees across the region suffered little winter damage this past winter. This is due in part to Midwest varieties’ hardiness and ability to withstand cold temperatures, a long season and heavy snow coverage.
“Compared to 2012 and 2013, this past winter was more moderate,” adds Wescott. “Temperature swings were less severe, posing much less of a winter survival challenge for crops that depend on consistent temperature ranges. Beyond mid May, the risk of a hard freeze - one of the most damaging effects on fruit tress - is greatly reduced. We are excited about bringing the traditional favorites to the market as well as our new varieties – River Belle and Pazazz. It should be a great apple season for our growers and consumers alike. “
For more information about Mississippi Valley Fruit Co. and Honeybear Brands visit www.honeybearbrands.com
