Nov 19, 2024

Editor’s Letter: Seeking efficient tree fruit varieties

In our tree fruit varieties issue, Fruit Growers News examines new cultivars
available to growers. Plus, the issue covers Ridgefest and apple consumption, plum varieties, Great Lakes EXPO and learn more about how the expertise of others can help growers solve disease issues.

International Fruit Tree Association’s (IFTA) 2024 summer study tour

I saw many varieties of tree fruit when I participated in the International Fruit Tree Association’s (IFTA) 2024 summer study tour. The bus tour through California’s Central Valley showed participants a large mix of varieties. Additionally, the tour demonstrated the ways growers are more efficiently harvesting tree fruit through a variety of training, pruning and harvesting practices.

Because of quality and yield declines, HMC Farms in Kingsburg, California, replaces older peach, plum and nectarine orchards with high-density systems.

“One thing we started focusing on back in 2018 is as these orchards age out, they can last anywhere from 14 to a little more than 20 years,” said HMC’s Drew Ketelsen.

HMC is experimenting with training systems. “We’re kind of learning with all this,” Ketelsen said. “The newer, productive varieties that size well, naturally, it’s a slam-dunk.”

Ridgefest 2024

An industry drive to boost apple consumption was part of this year’s Ridgefest. Read more about the latest techniques.

Plum varieties

Learn about plum varieties that offer growers opportunities through Jay Freer, Cornell’s stone fruit and pear technician.

Blueberry fertilization

At this year’s 2024 Great Lakes Fruit, Vegetable and Farm Market EXPO (GLEXPO), experts are on deck to share insights on blueberry fertilization and Concord grape juice cold-press techniques. Read more now.

Congratulations to the 40 Under Forty Class of 2024

At GLEXPO, this year’s crop of Fruit + Vegetable 40 Under Forty Award winners will be recognized. We hope to see you at the reception at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 10, on the Valent Stage, where FGN and sister publication Vegetable Growers News will recognize these outstanding men and women. Read more about the honorees before meeting them at GLEXPO.

Fresh Views: Anna Testen

In this month’s Fresh Views column, USDA-ARS research plant pathologist Anna Testen shares how relying on the expertise of others can help growers solve disease issues.