The Washington State Tree Fruit Association released its forecast for the 2019 Washington fresh apple crop Wednesday.  The forecast calls for a fresh crop of 137.3 million standard forty-pound boxes.  That’s an 18% year over year increase.

 

“WSTFA members are expecting an ample 2019 apple crop with a good mix of varieties for today's market” said Jon DeVaney, WSTFA President.  “Favorable summer growing weather means that Washington growers are expecting a crop with excellent quality and finish.”

 

Gala is projected to be the most numerous variety in 2019 accounting for 23% of production.  Red Delicious is projected at 20%, putting the variety in 2nd place.  Rounding out the top five is Fuji at 13%, Granny Smith and Honeycrisp both at 12% of total production.  Organic apple production is forecast to be 13% of the total, or 18.3 million boxes.

 

Organic apple production is forecast to be 13% of the total, or 18.3 million boxes.  Although it should be noted that typically not all organic production is ultimately packed and marketed as organic.

 

This forecast is based on a survey of WSTFA members, and represents a best estimate of the total volume of apples that will eventually be packed and sold on the fresh market (excluding product sent to processor).  Apple harvest typically begins in August and continues into November, and as a result this forecast is still subject to several months of variable weather which can affect the final harvest total.

 

 

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