Optimal harvest weather and motivated employees - these were the prospects for the moon apple harvest, which took place this year on Friday, Sept. 29, 2023 at Biohof Münch. "Even after more than 15 years, the full moon harvest is always a special event, which is actively supported by all", farm manager Marco Bartels looks back on a successful harvest night. Meanwhile, the moon apple harvest has become a long-standing tradition on the organic farm in the heart of the Alte Land. "We continue to observe a great demand for these exceptional apples. In recent years, sales and popularity of full moon apples have steadily increased."
© Bio Obst Münch GmbH & Co. KG "The motivation to harvest many delicious moon apples is felt by everyone and the goal unites. We are grateful for that," Bartels describes.
© Bio Obst Münch GmbH & Co. KG
As darkness fell, the harvesting groups set off. Equipped with headlamps, tractors and crates, they went to the orchard, where many crates of apples were diligently harvested throughout the night.
This year's organic apple harvest has gotten off to a promising start so far, Bartels continues. "The quality of the fruit, especially the fruit size, is excellent. Currently, we are in the middle of the harvest season, and some varieties such as Elstar, Santana, Boskoop and Holsteiner have already been successfully harvested. Currently, Topaz and Jonagored are in harvest."
With regard to the total harvest volume, it is not yet possible to give an accurate estimate, he said. Bartels says, "Compared to last year, however, the harvest seems to be somewhat smaller. This is largely due to the fact that the trees are exhausted after last year's record Elstar quantity and therefore bear less fruit."
© Bio Obst Münch GmbH & Co. KG 
Impressions of this year's full-moon harvest: full-moon apples are usually available in stores from October to February, he said.
Encouraging marketing situation
From the marketing point of view, the company looks back on a good start to the season overall. "The marketing of organic apples has already started well, and consumers are pleased with the prospect of fresh German organic apples. Demand for organic fruit remains high. So despite the expected slightly smaller harvest, we are confident that we will be able to supply our customers with high-quality organic apples for a long time this year as well," it further states.
Natyra on the rise
At the variety level, Natyra is gaining in importance in the German organic trade. Bio Obst Münch now grows the variety on more than ten percent of its total acreage. "We are convinced of the taste of the apple and want to offer our customers a delicious, crisp premium apple with this variety in the summer months as well. In addition, we planted Freya last spring. This variety is comparable in taste to Elstar and is also scab-resistant. In our opinion, it is a variety that is sure to win over many apple lovers in the coming years," concludes Bartels.
Images: Bio Obst Münch GmbH & Co. KG
For more information:
Marco Bartels
Bio Obst Münch GmbH & Co. KG
Domänenweg 10
21129 Hamburg
Tel.: 040-226 317 630
Fax: 040-226 317 649
[email protected]
www.bioobstmuench.de
