The 2025 top fruit harvest has begun in a gradual manner, including at Hermans Fruit in Herten, where the first Delcorf apples were picked at the end of July. Grower Jos Hermans is positive about the summer apple harvest, as well as about the upcoming Elstar and Wellant harvests.
The Delcorf harvest at Hermans', who runs the farm together with his son Roy, started about a week earlier than in other years. "This was mainly due to the mild winter, so everything ripened a bit earlier," says the Limburg grower. "In addition, we had an excellent growing season: no night frost, good pollination, and perfect blossom weather, what more could you want? As a result, after a disappointing year last year with 40% hail damage, we now have a wonderful harvest. The trees are heavily laden, and the quality and size are perfect. We are seeing an average size of 70–80 millimetres. A top year like this is rare. For Elstar and Wellant, too, I expect a very good harvest. We will certainly harvest 25 per cent more than in other years. The Conference pear harvest will probably be somewhat disappointing in terms of volume."
© NFO
Hermans does express concern about the shrinking range of crop protection products. Scab, in particular, he says, is difficult to control. "It is also not easy to find enough pickers. Despite the challenges, I still find the fruit-growing profession immensely rewarding. When I drive through the orchard and see those high-quality apples hanging, I truly enjoy it."
Harvest forecast 2025
Hermans' experience is not unique: consultant Joris Wisse of CAF confirms the positive outlook. "The top fruit harvest is now underway. This week (end of July), the harvest of Delcorf and Deljonca has started, and last week the first Summercrisp was already picked."
Source: NFO
