The first harvest estimates for the Belgian apple and pear harvest are disappointing. 30% less apples and 14% less pears are expected. The harvest estimates were put together by the Flemish government, Department Agriculture and Fishery - Department Durable Agricultural Development (ADLO) in cooperation with the Boerenbond, the Belgian Fruitgrowers Organisation, the Union of Belgian Horticultural Cooperations, the auction houses and the NIS.
In order to establish the harvest expectations of top fruit an annual inquiry is held by about 150 fruit growing companies in all Belgian provinces. "The results form the basis of European harvest estimates, which will be presented on 3 August at the international congress Prognosfruit in Toulouse.
From these inquiries it is clear that both the apple and pear harvest in Belgium will be smaller in 2012 than in 2011. The apple harvest of 2012 is estimated at
212 million kgs. or even 30% less than the previous year. The unfavourable weather conditions, the cold and wet weather and the frost in April are the culprits. Also the Pukkelpop storm of 18 August 2011 still has consequences for the 2012 harvest, but also the new flower buds were severely damaged.
This is also the case in many pear orchards. The pear harvest is estimated at
255 million kgs or 14% less than last year. The Belgian pear harvest will be for about 90% of the variety Conférence.
The total top fruit area in Belgium remains constant and amounts to 15,719 HA, of which 45% is apple and 55% pear cultivation, The apple area decreased by 3% to 7,140 HA, whilst the pear area increased by 3% to 8,579 HA.
The total top fruit area in Belgium remains constant and amounts to 15,719 HA, of which 45% is apple and 55% pear cultivation, The apple area decreased by 3% to 7,140 HA, whilst the pear area increased by 3% to 8,579 HA.
Source: Boerenbond Belgium