Sharply Lower Pear Crop

WASHINGTON - Jun 10/10 - SNS - Production of Bartlett pears in California, Oregon, and Washington is forecast at 420,000 tons, down 5% from last year, according to the USDA's latest crop production estimates.

Production in California is forecast at 195,000 tons, down 3% from last season. Bartletts began blooming in March with some areas reporting bloom problems due to rain. Cool spring temperatures delayed harvest by one to two weeks. Minimal pest pressure was reported.

Oregon growers expect to harvest 60,000 tons, equal to last year's production. This spring has been unusually cool and wet. Trees blossomed during a brief warm period, followed by cold, wet conditions that have adversely affected pollination in some areas. During the month of April, growers in the Hood River area were still using frost protection methods. Some growers reported a good fruit set while others expressed concern.

Washington's Bartlett crop is forecast at 165,000 tons, down 10% from 2009. Spring conditions were cool and wetter than normal. Yakima had its second-wettest May on record in more than 100 years. Measurable rain occurred on 11 days and traces fell another 8 days which totaled nearly 1.5 inches for the month. Many growers reported pollination problems due to cold, windy weather occurring during bloom. There were also several isolated reports of hail damage.

Subscribers can read the full text of the article by Clicking here