Once June passed, the growing conditions for New York Apple Sales Inc.'s growing-partners blossomed into near perfect conditions, according to Vice President of Marketing Jim Allen.
“From the Eastern Hudson Valley, north to the Canadian border, and west to Niagara Falls, plenty of moisture and abundant sunshine along with warm temperatures is painting this year’s crop into a masterpiece,” said Allen. “When the canvas was bare in the late spring, concerns were shared about a possible weaker-than-normal return bud and bloom.”
He added that some growers also expressed concern about pollination being less than vibrant.
“But as the old saying goes, don’t count your blossoms before they bloom,” said Allen. “The set was good, but the ideal growing conditions have transformed the 2019 crop into a work of art, worthy of any positive titles or claims as an outstanding apple crop.”
Offering a comparison, Allen pointed out that this time one year ago New York had a full crop on the trees but were in the middle of a six-week drought, which ended up adversely affecting the crop in a serious way.
This year, during the first week of August, the first picking of Wildfire Gala apples in the Hudson Valley for New York Apple Sales began. The fruit exhibited blazing red color. Allen said other early apples were also looking excellent.
“New York Apple Sales’ growers and packers across the state are ready for this year’s crop,” he noted. “Some have started to harvest and, in a few weeks, full harvests will begin.”
Kaari Standard, president of New York Apple Sales, said, “As marketers, we are ready and excited about our new crop. And as a grower and packing partner, I am thrilled at the level of quality we are seeing so far.”
Michael Harwood, sales team member, said, “We have received positive interest from retailers so far, and they are anxious to get into the new crop.”
“As usual, our traditional fall cool nights and sunny October days will finish this crop off beautifully,” added Matt Wells, director of field services.
“Dan Ingersoll and Chelsea VanAcker scout our orchards daily,” said Allen. “Both agree that this year is certainly a turnaround from the 2018 crop.”
