Apricot Output to Double

WASHINGTON - Jul 12/07 - SNS -- California's final forecast for the 2007 apricot crop is 86,570 tons, up 95% from last year and 6% above 2005, according to the latest USDA crop production estimates.

This year's apricot crop is forecast at 80,000 tons, down 11% from the June forecast but 105% above last year's production. The apricot crop in California represents 92% of the total 2007 U.S. apricot production.

California's apricot production has rebounded from last year's record low crop. Sufficient winter chill coupled with favorable weather conditions during bloom and the growing season contributed to this year's jump in production. Fruit set and quality were reported to be good. Harvest began the last week of April and was expected to be finished by early July.

Washington's forecasted production, at 6,300 tons, is up 21% from last year and 7% above 2005. Spring frosts resulted in some crop damage, but with no extended periods of extremely hot weather, overall crop development has been good. Utah's 2007 apricot production is forecast at 270 tons, down 4% from 2006 but 8% above 2005. Low disease pressure has helped keep the crop outlook good.

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