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FRUIT REPORT
October 2007

Seasonal
No. 975-5-07

NEW YORK APPLE PRODUCTION DECREASES

Based on conditions as of October 1, apple production in New York is forecast at 1.26 billion pounds, down 2 percent from the August forecast and up 1 percent from the 2006 crop of 1.25 billion pounds. Across the state, the production harvested decreased from the August 1^st estimate, due mainly to the dry weather received.  In some apple regions, apple sizes were average or below average, but apple quantity and quality appeared in good conditions.

In the Lake Ontario fruit region, growers reported apples to be small in size, due to dry weather.  In August growers originally anticipated higher production.  Even though apples were small in size, growers reported harvest to be plentiful and prices good.  Only a few growers had apple drops due to labor shortages.                     In the Hudson Valley fruit region, growers reported a good growing and harvest season.  Apple size was average and apple quality was average to above average.  Color appeared in good condition and only a few reports of hail damage and dry weather was reported.

Growers in the Lake Champlain fruit region reported great color and a good quality crop.  Some growers were concerned about winds, but overall there was very little apple drop.

U.S. apple production for the 2007 crop year is forecast at 9.25 billion pounds, slightly less than the August 1 forecast and down 7 percent from 2006. 

TOTAL APPLE PRODUCTION:  Selected States and United States 4/

NEW YORK GRAPE PRODUCTION DECREASES

Based on conditions as of October 1, the 2007 New York all grape crop is forecast at 176 thousand tons, down 2 percent from the August forecast and up 14 percent from last year’s production of 155 thousand tons. Grape harvest was 55 percent completed compared to the average of 38 percent.  Growers continue to look for favorable weather in hopes of increasing sugar contents.

Growers in the Lake Erie fruit region are still optimistic about an average crop.  The dry, warm weather aided in quicker ripening for some vineyards.  The sugar solids produced were also high making the quality of the grapes excellent.  However, summer’s drought like conditions left some vines and berries stressed weak, and dead.  A few growers did report hail damage, early frost, deer and Japanese beetles as factors in lower production.              In the Finger Lakes region, grapes ripened earlier than usual.  The dry weather assisted in ripening and quality.  Due  to  the  lack  of  rain,  berry  sizes were  average  to  below  average.  Growers reported a dry season.  Minimal sprays were needed for disease and mold control.  The statewide hail storm in July did affect a few vineyards.

Long  Island  grape  producers  reported  favorable growing  conditions  and  grapes  appeared  to  be  in excellent  quality.

U.S. grape production is forecast at 6.99 million tons, virtually unchanged from the August forecast but 9 percent above 2006.

  TOTAL GRAPE PRODUCTION:  Selected States and United States