The California apricot season will start in the first week of May. "We look to start around May 3," says Justin Bedwell of Bari Produce. "Our earliest varieties–Kylese and Poppycots–seem to be lighter than normal, but our Giant Lorna, Earlicot, and Coralcot crops look to be a bit heavier. All in all, we expect a similar total volume compared to last year."
As for the season's timing, it's about one to two days behind last year. However, there's hope for some hotter days ahead to accelerate that timing and possibly start earlier.
This crop comes following a good winter in California. "The trees got their chill hours, and our area received about 75 percent of our annual rainfall amounts. The stage is set for some very good-tasting apricots," says Bedwell. "Weather-wise, we are in the mid-70s next week. That's nice, but it is not what we need to push the fruit sooner. There is a small chance of rain, which we will also watch closely."
Growing apricot consumption
Demand is anticipated to be strong from the start for apricots, which, like cherries, are considered a true seasonal item. "We have some good retail promotions set up that should help keep movement going too," says Bedwell, adding that consumption overall continues to strengthen on the stone fruit item, which represents one of the first spring items in the marketplace. "We try each year to increase awareness to also promote additional consumption," he says.
Pricing looks similar to last year, which can be a challenge given that inputs continue to increase–specifically on water on the West side of the San Joaquin Valley.
For more information:
Justin Bedwell
Bari Produce
Tel: +1 (559) 560-5600
[email protected]
www.bariproduce.com