The 2016 dried plum season appears that it is going to be a difficult one. Storms, with cold, wet, and windy weather, created problems during the bloom and adverse conditions for bees during the height of the pollination period.
California dried plum production development
As a result, the 2016 California dried plum (prune) crop is forecast at 45,000 tons, down 58 percent from the 107,000 tons reported to the California Dried Plum Board as produced in 2015. If the forecast is realized, this year’s crop would be the smallest on record since official estimates began in 1920.
Total 2016 bearing acreage is estimated at 45,000, six percent below the previous year. The French prune variety accounts for virtually all dried plum acreage grown in California. The production forecast is based on a survey of dried plum growers conducted by the USDA, NASS, Pacific Regional Office from May 12-31, 2016.
Total 2016 bearing acreage is estimated at 45,000, six percent below the previous year. The French prune variety accounts for virtually all dried plum acreage grown in California. The production forecast is based on a survey of dried plum growers conducted by the USDA, NASS, Pacific Regional Office from May 12-31, 2016.
Source: USDA, 2016