The Michigan Apple crop is looking good for 2020. “We’ve heard from many growers over the last week and they are reporting a strong crop," said Diane Smith, executive director of the Michigan Apple Committee. "Of course, an official crop size estimate will be made at USApple’s Outlook conference, Aug. 20-21, which will be online this year.
“At this time all I can say is we are expecting a good crop. We’ll know more as the summer goes on," she said. An average crop size for Michigan is about 25 million bushels.
Smith said potential freeze damage over Mother’s Day weekend was minimized by Michigan growers’ effective investment in frost protection. “There may be some slight damage to some varieties, but overall things are looking good.”
She noted that “Many growers have signed on with managed varieties here in Michigan, such as Smitten, Sweet Tango, Kiku, and more. In addition, EverCrisp has become exceedingly popular in the winter months, as it stores really well. Of course, we believe Michigan grows the best tasting apples, so varieties like Honeycrisp, Gala and Fuji are always popular with consumers.”
She added that varieties such as Jonathon and Romes decrease in production, along with some other varieties for which consumer demand has gone down. “Our industry works hard to be responsive to consumer demand and the interests and changes in the marketplace.”
Michigan’s 2019 apple storage crop will be wrapping up in July. Thus, Smith noted, “the Michigan apples in produce departments this coming September will be fresh from the trees.
“In late August our early varieties will be available," she said. "Many of the in-store programs with our retail partners will begin in September, with the busiest time being the month of October. Our retail account managers work to build programs that fit with the individual retailer’s marketing plans and aim to bring excitement to the produce department.”
The Michigan Apple Committee is always working to develop markets.
“As part of our strategic plan, we are aiming toward expansion beyond the Great Lakes region. Michigan Apples are sold in 32 states and 18 countries. We are continuing to add retailers to our list of partners and work toward increasing movement of Michigan apples,” Smith noted.
Has COVID-19 impacted the Michigan apple industry?
“Well, I think Covid has impacted just about everything in the world! So yes, we have seen impacts – the agriculture industry has need for PPE, so we have been working to connect producers with protective equipment. Additional safety measures are in place in all packing houses and processing facilities, as well as on-farm. Our growers and industry members are committed to providing safe workplaces and, of course, safe product.”
