Overall Increase in California Fruit

WASHINGTON - Jun 10/-9 - SNS -- Production of California prunes is up sharply over last year, while this year's expected apricot harvest is down, according to the USDA's latest crop production estimates.

California's 2009 prune production forecast is 170,000 dried tons, up 32% from the 129,000 tons in 2008 and 205% above the 2007 crop. Weather conditions have been ideal, resulting in excellent bloom, fruit set and good sized fruit. Growers were busy thinning fruit due to the large set.

California's 2009 production forecast is 66,000 tons, down 14% from the 2008 crop and 19% below 2007. Production was expected to be down from above average levels in recent years due to frosts and water shortages. Overall, bloom, fruit set, and quality were reported to be good. The sensitivity of apricots to weather, economics, market demand and foreign competition continued to pressure apricot growers to pull trees and grow more profitable crops.

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