After record production last year, apple growers expect another high-performing year, according the USApple report released at the organization’s Aug. 14-16 annual Outlook Conference in Chicago.

The Outlook Report is based on recently released U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates.

USApple’s prediction differs from USDA’s forecast, which forecasts apple growers to produce 282 million bushels for the 2024/25 CY, a 2% decrease compared to 2023-24 .

USApple states the figures are more comprehensive than USDA data, which only examine the top seven apple-producing states.

USApple analyzes production from states outside of the top seven and adds their production back into USDA’s figures, according to a news release.

It also incorporates feedback from growers based on what they’re seeing in the field every day, according to the release.

“Growers from across the U.S. are reporting the crop quality is excellent,” Chris Gerlach, the report’s author and USApple’s vice president of insights and analytics, said in a news release.

“Despite various challenges, the resilience and dedication of our growers have led to another promising year for apple production,” Gerlach said in the release. “The data we’ve gathered not only highlights the strength of our industry, but also underscores the importance of innovation and adaptability in ensuring a bountiful harvest.”

Varietal mix

At the varietal level, Galas are expected to retain the top spot with more than 48 million bushels produced. The following is a listing of the top five varieties’ share of the market:

• Gala (17%)
• Red Delicious (12.3%)
• Granny Smith (10%)
• Honeycrisp (9.8%)
• Fuji (9.4%)

In general, the varieties on the rise include Honeycrisp, Pink Lady/Cripps Pink and Cosmic Crisp. Fuji, Rome and “other” varieties have remained relatively consistent compared to 2019/20 production volumes. Varieties on the decline include Gala and Red Delicious, according to the release.

“We still see strong Honeycrisp production, but it’s tempered this year,” Gerlach said in the release. “With volumes aligning more closely with Gala and Red Delicious, we may see production levels stabilize rather than increase dramatically in the future.”

Trade

According to USDA trade data, fresh apple exports totaled 46.4 million bushels in the 2023/24 CY). This is around 14 million bushels higher than 2022/23 export levels – an astonishing 44% year-over-year increase, according to the release.

During the same period, fresh apple imports dropped by around one million bushels, a 15% decline. The joint effects of increasing exports and decreasing imports caused the already net positive fresh apple trade balance to grow to more than 42 million bushels.

The surge in fresh apple exports is largely attributed to the abundant domestic supply, competitive pricing abroad, and favorable positive trade policies, according to the release.

“Thanks to the removal of previously imposed tariffs on our apples, exports to India are up nearly 4,000% year over year. We are optimistic that this critical market will continue to grow in volume and value,” Gerlach said in the release.

After the presentation of USDA’s numbers, USApple members at the Chicago meeting met in-person to discuss current growing conditions to formulate a more up-to-date production estimate.

The final USApple 2024/25 crop year forecast is an adjustment of the USDA numbers based on those conversations, according to the release.

Global production

According to United Nations (UN) data, worldwide apple production surpassed 5 billion bushels for the first time in 2022 (the latest available datapoint).

In 2022, China alone was responsible for producing 2.5 billion bushels, around half of the world’s total supply. In 2021, Turkey overtook the U.S. to become the world’s second largest apple producer and maintained that spot in 2022, even widening the gap between us (with 253 million bushels, 5% of world production). The U.S., in the third spot, was credited with 232 million bushels and 4.6% of world production. Rounding out the top five were Poland (4.4%) and India (2.7%).

USApple’s Industry Outlook 2024 provides data and analysis on U.S. and global apple production, utilization and trade. Authored by Gerlach, the report takes an in-depth look at the trends and forces, from political headwinds to weather events, that shape the U.S. apple industry.

Launched in 2022, USApple’s Newton Database & Dashboard is a one-stop-shop for apple-related statistics. Newton consolidates data from USApple and multiple USDA sources in to one place, providing users updated information on apple production, utilization, trade, prices, storages, movement, economic impacts and more. The USApple member benefit gives users the ability to view preset reports or create custom queries for download, according to the release.

USApple is a national trade association representing all segments of the apple industry. Members include 36 state and regional apple associations, representing 26,000 apple growers throughout the country and more than 3,700 apple-related companies. USApple’s members collectively grow more than 10 billion pounds of apples a year on average, supporting about 150,000 jobs and generating more than $8 billion in total wages and $23 billion in economic activity.

The conference is in its 129th year.

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The Great Lakes Fruit, Vegetable and Farm Market EXPO and Michigan Greenhouse Growers EXPO provide ample opportunities to connect with key decision-makers on the show floor. This three-day event features over 70 educational sessions and workshops, covering topics such as specialty crops, lavender, drone spraying and more. 

Many sessions are led by specialty crop researchers from Michigan State University and other institutions, with the added benefit of pesticide credits available for applicators attending various sessions. The show will be held at DeVos Place in Grand Rapids, Michigan from Dec. 10-12. Visit glexpo.com today to reserve your spot!

Drone spraying in specialty crops symposium

There will be a new all-day event on Thursday, Dec. 12 — Drone Spraying in Specialty Crops Symposium — that will focus on using drones to apply crop protection materials in fruits and vegetables.

Experts from the West Coast, Europe and various local industry leaders will gather to discuss the latest best practices and future needs in cultivating vegetables, trees and vines. This comprehensive session will feature panel discussions and ample opportunities for Q&A, ensuring a thorough exploration of the topics.

Geared toward custom applicators and private growers who are considering the use of drones in specialty crop spray programs, participants will gain valuable insights into integrating drones, whether through contracted services or owned equipment.

Expo attendees can register to attend the symposium during the Expo registration process, but there is an additional $50 fee to attend this symposium. Registration is required to attend this session.

Attendees can also earn up to six CEUs.

More to the story — Jon Dinsmore 

Jon Dinsmore, a fourth-generation farmer in Yuma, Arizona, will share his journey of reaching consumers through social media.

“Attendees can expect to hear stories of going viral on social media and how being known as the Green Screen Farmer has allowed me to reach consumers from all sides,” Dinsmore said. “I share how crucial honest dialogue is when building relationships and connecting with individuals or groups — especially those you may think are not interested in your story. It’s about understanding the significance of one’s story, identifying its value and presenting it in an impactful way to everyone who will listen.”

One of Dinsmore’s favorite quotes is: “Your past doesn’t define you, it prepares you.” 

Through his session, he hopes to remind people that your future continues to shape your story — don’t settle for what has already been written.

Dinsmore’s session, More to the Story, will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 12:45 p.m EST on Dec. 10.

You can find Jon Dinsmore on social media @thefarmerjon.

Great Lakes Lavender Growers association

This year, the Great Lakes Lavender Growers association will host its annual meeting/conference at the Great Lakes Expo. There will be a full day of education sessions and possibly an informal after-hours networking event. 

The Great Lakes Lavender Growers association works together to create a network of information and collaboration with commercial lavender growers while promoting the lavender industry through research and education. This will be the association’s second year at the Great Lakes Expo.

Details about its appearance at the show are still being organized, but in the meantime, visit greatlakeslavendergrowers.org/about-me/ to learn more about Great Lakes lavender.

Farm Market Bus Tour 2024

Get ready for Monday, Dec. 9, for an exciting full-day bus tour of West Michigan Farm Markets. The Farm Market Bus Tour will be held the day before the Great Lakes Expo and is your chance to dive into the best in farm marketing and agritourism. 

This is a great opportunity to network with other farm marketers while learning how some innovative farmers get their products onto the tables of consumers using creative and unique marketing strategies. There will be interactive discussions with other participants while traveling on the buses that will be moderated by Michigan State University Extension educators. The tour departs from Amway Grand Plaza/Convention Center in Grand Rapids, Michigan. 

The cost of the tour is $185 per person, which includes lunch and snacks. If you register after Nov. 15, the cost increases to $205 and subject to availability.

For more information about the tour, including descriptions of each of the host farm markets that will be visited, email Caroline Feehery at cfeehery@greatamericanpublish.com. 

Learn about this year’s show and register at glexpo.com.

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The marketers of the SweeTango apple variety are forecasting this year’s harvest to bring a fifth more production.

In a crowded apple market, it’s now retailers’ chance to impress shoppers with the most exciting apple — the trademarked SweeTango variety, according to a news release from the Next Big Thing, an Emmas, Pennsylvania, growers’ cooperative that promotes the variety.

“This harvest, growers forecast a longer season, with 20% more apples compared to prior years,” according to the release. “Growers also report apples will be bigger, juicier, and better in bulk, but whether supplying in bags or stacking them on the shelves, they’ll have a selection for any retailer’s needs.”

Stemilt Growers’ Brianna Shales is optimistic about the harvest.

“We’re harvesting and packing SweeTango apples in Washington State, and excited about the volume and quality we are seeing so far in the new crop,” Shales said in the release. “SweeTango consistently ranks in the top 10 apple varieties in October, which is one of the biggest apple promotion months each year. With increased volumes of SweeTango, we can delight SweeTango fans even longer with additional promotions and activity at the point of sale into the winter months that will highlight its fantastic crunch and honey-sweet flavor.”

SweeTango apples are available conventionally and organic.

One is never enough. SweeTango’s “superfan” base can’t resist the sweet, citrusy, and honey-spiced flavor, plus the apple’s award-winning crunch. Whether eaten fresh and whole, sliced and spread with almond butter, or to elevate a charcuterie plate, SweeTango meets any occasion. Dedicated shoppers have affirmed the apple as a proven winner for retailers, and will be rushing for more this season, according to the release.

“SweeTango is an apple that sells itself,” Shelby Miller of Applewood Fresh said in the release. “It hits all 5 senses, from premium taste to strong shelf appeal, it is that consistency consumers look forward to year after year.”

Kaari Stannard of New York’s Yes! Apples shares her insight.

“Especially now that school’s back in session, SweeTangos are in high demand as the perfect snack for kid’s lunches,” Stannard said in the release. “Parents always come back for more because their kids actually finish them. Everyone will be filling their carts with crisp, sweet, and zesty, so stock up to keep customers smiling.”

According to growers, they will start shipping from across the country shortly after Labor Day. There’s no better time to supply shoppers with their favorite — in tandem with the brand’s coordinated, coast-to-coast marketing and sales support, according to the release.

SweeTango’s top priority is to reach new consumers with in-store activations.

“Our season is starting earlier and sticking around longer, and we’ve been growing to match that demand. We are here to help retail create excitement around SweeTango to drive sales and build customer loyalty,” Brian Coates, Applewood Fresh’s vice president, said in the release.

To alert long-time fans that SweeTangos are back in the market, while also creating awareness among new fans, the brand invests in digital video advertisements geo-targeted to SweeTango retailers’ markets. A store locator on the brand’s website, SweeTango.com, helps consumers find SweeTango retailers near them.

SweeTango boasts a strong social media presence across platforms, which the brand uses to activate its loyal fanbase. Efforts are aligned to activate a wider range audience, including Millennial and Gen Z consumers who love consistent and exceptional apples, and are known to remain dedicated to brands they believe in, according to the release.

“We’re excited about our new packaging design that will absolutely engage shoppers. Our range of package options meets any of your store’s needs for both conventional and organic apples,” Jen Miller, Next Big Thing’s executive director, said in the release

“Even more exciting, we’ll be launching a new packaging-focused social campaign this season to promote engagement with our brand in stores, making sure that all SweeTango fans stay in-the-know about where to find and buy their favorite apple. That means your stores can anticipate more demand than ever.”

The Next Big Thing’s 50 family growers grow the variety in five time zones from Nova Scotia to Washington state. The co-op licenses, grows and markets premium and managed varieties of apples, beginning with SweeTango.

— Top photo courtesy of KC Bailey

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TOPP uses a variety of methods, including mentorship, workshops, webinars, technical assistance and field days, to help growers new to the organic fold learn how to satisfy the requirements in the three-year transition process from conventional farming to producing organic crops.

Once organic certification is granted, however, the need for assistance in organic growing practices and navigating the new organic marketplace continues, which is why the USDA chose to set a five-year timeline for TOPP.

“We wanted to make sure that the program supported not just the full three-year transition, but then time after growers have transitioned as well, just knowing that there are continued challenges and opportunities and need for information that growers and producers face once they have transitioned to organic,” said Jenny Lester Moffitt, USDA undersecretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs.

TOPP, which began in October 2022, is part of the USDA’s Organic Transition Initiative, introduced in the summer of 2021. Meeting with organic industry segments, Moffitt said it was clear there was a need for comprehensive support for growers in answering numerous questions.

“Mentorships are really key,” Moffitt said. “The farmer-to-farmer information sharing across agriculture, whether it is organic or not organic, I think is really critical as well.”

There are 180 TOPP partners across the six U.S. regions, ranging from university Extension specialists, nonprofit agencies, farmer organizations and others. In TOPP’s first year, the partners worked with 11,000 farmers and ranchers at 165 events across the U.S., according to the USDA.

One of those partners, Farmshare Austin in Texas, has a five-month intensive training program called Farmer Starter. Graduates can establish a business by growing organic vegetables through Farmshare’s one-year farm incubator program, Cultivator.

The organization’s outreach focuses on the practical production and record-keeping skills needed to comply with the National Organic Program.

“Many of the growers we work with are already motivated to use organic growing practices in order to care for the ecosystem, but many are not sure about going the extra step of getting and maintaining certification,” said Michelle Akindiya, Farmshare Austin’s education and operations director.

A major concern from growers considering organic production, she said, is that recordkeeping requirements are too difficult.

“We make the argument that the kinds of records one needs to keep for compliance are the same that one needs to keep to run a profitable farm — that tracking production inputs and outputs and using that data to make decisions can make you a better farmer,” Akindiya said. “And we show them how to do it efficiently as a part of their day-to-day activities.”

TOPP provides an ability to educate not just producers, but the next generation of inspectors and others necessary to keep the National Organic Program running.

USDA Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack “talks a lot about workforce development, and we really do aim to integrate that into a lot of things we’re doing,” Moffitt said.

Moffitt said TOPP activities are available to any grower considering the organic segment, but a focus is on smaller growers who don’t have access to the same resources larger operations might possess. That includes underserved producers, such as those whose primary language isn’t English.

Online resources

The USDA’s TOPP website, organictransition.org, allows new growers to seek mentors, and vice versa. Dozens of events are searchable by region. Online resources for pest, disease and weed management, farm business management, organic processing and handling, soil and nutrient management and other topics are available.

The six regions tailor their own programs for what benefits growers in each area.

“There’s a key framework, but absolutely locally led solutions,” Moffitt said. “What is needed in the Northwest is going to be very different than what is needed in the Southeast, which will be very different than what’s needed … across the Plains.”

— Chris Koger, contributing writer

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The survey’s purpose is aimed at gathering vital production data to provide Congress, media and buyers information on the cider industry, according to a news release.

Participants are asked to provide information on sales, staffing and production. To share information, complete the online survey.

The survey, which takes about 30 minutes to complete, ensures privacy by aggregating and anonymizing responses through a third party.

For more information, visit American Cider Association’s website.

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The USDA-designated week runs from Aug. 4-10, and is designed to encourage consumers to support local markets.

“August is prime time for Jersey Fresh produce like tomatoes, sweet corn, and peaches,” Wengryn said in a news release. “Farmers markets are perfect for community gathering and meeting our local farmers.”

New Jersey boasts around 140 community and 700 independent farmers markets, where produce is often sold within 24 hours of harvest to ensure freshness. The Ocean City Market, now celebrating its 30th year, operates Wednesdays from 8 a.m. to noon at the Ocean City Tabernacle grounds.

Rose Savastano from the Ocean City Chamber of Commerce praised the market’s success and community support.

“Our farmers provide top-quality produce,” Savastano said in the release.

For more information, findjerseyfresh.com.

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The Michigan Apple Committee-sponsored event was July 30 in Sparta, Michigan.

The summit brought together seven leaders in the Michigan apple industry to learn the latest trends and best practices across social media channels and platforms, enabling them to create compelling grower-generated content showcasing their unique stories.

Ultimately, the individuals will use this knowledge and expertise to promote their own businesses as well as the Michigan Apple industry, as online ambassadors, according to a news release.

“The Handpicked Social Media Summit has been in our plans for a while and we were finally able to begin implementing it last year,” Diane Smith, the committee’s executive director, said in the release. “Our target consumer is interested in knowing the faces behind the foods they eat. Growers as brand ambassadors provide consumers a behind-the-scenes look at orchards, production and Michigan apple growing families. We are thrilled at how our vision has become a reality over the last two years.”

Participants engaged in expert-led sessions where they learned to use social media to promote their apples, build brand awareness, and engage with customers in new and exciting ways.

Tips on photography and videography, and best practices for posting were shared with the group.

The seven “Handpicked” Michigan Apple industry representatives at the 2nd Annual Handpicked Social Media Summit were Denny Alt, Megan Barlow, Laura Herrygers, Theresa Kober, Mike Wells, Robyn Schultz, and Emily Kropf.

Based in Lansing, Michigan, the Michigan Apple Committee is a grower-funded nonprofit organization devoted to marketing, education and research activities to distinguish the Michigan apple and encourage its consumption in Michigan and around the world.

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There is a team of us that operate more than 300 acres. I, my wife Julie, my father Lenny Jr., farm managing partner Andrew, and a lot of great seasonal help are involved. Our three children each help with daily tasks: Lydia (7) helps with customers in the market, Leo (5) tends to the animals and Tucker (2) keeps us in smiles all day.

We also have a roadside market and “pick your own” operation.

Roadside market offers diversity

In addition to seasonal fruits and vegetables, the market offers a variety of products such as bedding plants in the spring, a large selection of home-grown animal feed year- round and winter storage crops such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, onions, cabbage and apples. We also carry honey from several local apiaries and a large selection of canned goods, jams and jellies.

During the summer months, the market is packed with all kinds of fruit and vegetables — especially our sweet corn. 

Plus, our pick your own operation has adapted crops to meet the needs of local residents and now consists of a variety of peppers, corn, eggplant, tomatoes, beans, cabbage and squash.

Business does matter 

Over the years, we have learned that being able to juggle the paperwork that comes with running a business — payroll, accounting and current regulations — along with the daily general farm work, is a task in itself, and that keeping all of these things current and organized must be a priority.

Keeping up with current guidelines and requirements is also essential for the value seen by both inspectors and customers alike. 

Staying ahead and being prepared for what is to come helps keep things running smoothly. We have found that the ability to properly manage all aspects of the business could be a determining factor for success or failure.

Customer satisfaction 

We know that listening to customer requests plays a large role in the retention and expansion of our customer base. Making customers believe that they have been heard and their needs met helps bring them back frequently and leave with a positive experience they want to share with friends and family. Our ability to supply an ever- changing demand in the fresh produce industry has led us to more customers and a larger market.

Collaboration 

Working with neighboring farmers as friends is also a crucial part of our success. There are plenty of mouths for all of us to feed in today’s world that we need to lift each other up when we can.

Share in hard times and plentiful times. Large or small, conventional or organic — we need to work together for a better future for agriculture. 

We believe that the future for agriculture, both large- and small-scale, is bright if you are willing to maintain the important old traditions and keep an open mind to modern advancement and changes in your operation.

Burger’s Farm was settled on our land in 1889. So much has changed since then, except our dirt. That will remain while our generation is here to farm it, and hopefully many generations to come

Written by Leonard Burger, Burger’s Farm 

Lenny Burgess III is part of the five generations of success at Burger’s Farm and a member of the Fruit + Vegetable Class of 2023 40 Under Forty honorees. For more information, visit Burger’s Farm at burgersfarm.webnode.page.

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The event is a full-day experience that precedes the Great Lakes Fruit, Vegetable & Farm Market EXPO and it is sponsored by Fruit Growers News and Vegetable Growers News.

Attendees will embark on a journey through west Michigan’s leading farm markets, gaining insights into the innovative strategies growers use to bring their products to consumers.

The bus tour promises a blend of networking, education and hands-on learning, with interactive discussions moderated by educators from Michigan State University Extension.

While the specific stops on the tour are not yet released, participants can expect a diverse range of farm markets showcasing creative marketing techniques and successful agritourism practices.

Registration is now open and space is limited.

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The expansion brings the Omakase and Koyo berries to markets in New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia, Boston and Washington, D.C.

“We’re excited to join these vibrant local food communities,” said Rita Hudetz, chief commercial officer at Oishii. “Oishii may be the future of farming, but we are still a farm.”

Grown in indoor vertical farms, Oishii’s berries are pesticide-free, non-GMO and available year-round. A tray of Omakase berries costs $11.99, while Koyo berries are $9.99.

The move follows Oishii’s growth, including a $134 million Series B funding in February and the opening of their largest farm in Phillipsburg, New Jersey, in June. This new facility enhances production capacity by over 20 times using advanced AI and robotics.

Information on farm market locations is available online.

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