Good stone fruit year for Washington
Harvest of all Washington stone fruits continues to run in the range of 7 to 10 days ahead of last year. "The consensus of growers and packers remains that the State's stone fruit crop overall is expected to produce average volumes. Split between peaches and nectarines, that will produce 2.5 to 3 million boxes of fruit. Growers expect our peak window (NOW through mid-September) to remain the same, though more volume will be available in the preceding weeks due to growing conditions," according to Washington State Fruit Commission.
Apricot
The Washington apricot growers are nearing the end of their season, with a crop of great quality in the books. The last of the Perfections are entering the market, and the late season growers are well under way with their late-ripening varieties such as Southern Cross and Nova. The last of these later Washington apricots are expected to wrap up by the end of August.
Peach
Current varieties in harvest are primarily Sweet Dreams and several of the "Lady series," notably Zee Lady and Elegant Lady peaches. "We will have promotable volume on peaches through the end of September."
Nectarine
Honey Havens are wrapping up, and Honey Royales are well underway along with Summer Flares. "Over the coming week we will see Bright Sweets and Royal Brights start picking up, along with Grand Candy. We will have volume on nectarines through the end of September."
Prune/Plum
Harvest on early Italian prunes is under way and we expect to have Prunes into September. This classic fruit has seen a surge of consumer popularity over the past 3 years, so if you'd like to offer your customers a high-quality option, don't delay in contacting your Washington shippers.
Contact your Washington State Fruit Commission representative
