Less Prunes, Same Apricots As 2009

WASHINGTON - Jun 10/10 - SNS - This year's prune harvest is down considerably from last year, while the California apricot crop will be little changed, according to the USDA's latest crop production estimates.

California's 2010 prune production forecast is 150,000 dried tons, down 10% from the revised 166,000 tons in 2009 but 16% above the 2008 crop. Cooler weather and lighter fruit sets this year contributed to lower production compared with the previous year. Growers reported that they were not thinning as much or skipping thinning altogether. Pest pressures are a concern this year because of increased rain and cooler temperatures.

California's 2010 production forecast is 60,000 tons, 1% above the 2009 crop but 22% below 2008. The harvest is about a week behind schedule which should allow the fruit to increase in size. The slowed ripening of the fruit also limited the damage from the cool, wet weather experienced this spring. The crop was reported to be in good condition.

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