SweeTango apple growers are sharing a positive forecast for the 2018 crop after a successful spring bloom. Reports from orchards in the U.S. and Canada show a healthy fruit set with sizes estimated to be slightly larger than that of the 2017 crop. An on-time harvest is expected for this early season apple variety, which will begin mid-August in the Western region and will move east in the weeks that follow.
Brianna Shales, communications manager for Stemilt Growers, reported that SweeTango orchards in Washington State enjoyed a classic “snowball” bloom that has since set very well. “Weather-wise, we had a moderate winter followed by a mix of warm and cool weather in the spring,” she said, noting, “volume is expected to be comparable to last season, but with an increased percentage of organic now that one of our orchards has completed the three-year transition phase to organic.”
For the Midwestern growing region, Pepin Heights Orchards’ director of operations Chet Miller said, “Midwest growers’ orchards went from snowfall to snowball blossoms in about a month; it was pretty incredible to watch. Thanks to good bloom weather, the bees got their job done and we set a good crop. Hold on, SweeTango fans, we will have more apples soon!”
David Williams, VP of sales and marketing at Fowler Farms, remarked that the Eastern region experienced ideal winter and spring weather for the crop. “We anticipate the SweeTango yield to be good this season, as the bloom was above normal and the bees have been busy at work pollinating over the last few weeks,” he said. “We are on track for normal harvest timing for big, beautiful, and flavorful SweeTango apples.”
In Nova Scotia, Canada, the long winter was followed by a cool spring that provided great growing conditions for the bloom. Dennis MacPherson, director of sales for Scotian Gold remarked, “things are moving along nicely and we’re expecting the largest SweeTango crop we’ve ever had. The forecast is calling for above seasonal temperatures throughout the summer in our region, which will help in bringing us good size and color again this year.”
Nielsen retail scan data ranked SweeTango as the top selling club variety during peak season, September to November 2017, making it a favorite for retailers. Consumers adore this apple’s sweet flavor with its touch of citrus, honey and spice, with its loud crunch that is followed by a burst of juice.
Retailers are encouraged to discuss opportunities for this in-demand variety with regional sales representatives, who can be found at http://sweetango.com/about/for-retailers/sales-desk/.
For more information:
Cristie Mather
Tel: +1 (503) 705-8404