Marketing

Hard cider: New industry faces shortage of trees, labor

Despite being a very old practice, the making of hard cider is virtually a new industry in the United States. The recent growth in sales has been “staggering,” and the U.S. apple industry as a... more »

USDA seeks nominees for blueberry board

USDA is seeking nominations for the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC).USHBC is composed of 16 members and 16 alternates. Selected nominees would replace seven members and seven alternates whose terms will expire Dec. 31, 2015.... more »

New variety available to more retailers

Honeybear Brands, the varietal developer, has announced the regions and markets selected for the rollout of its newest apple variety, Pazazz.The new variety will be available to select retailer partners in several major markets. Honeybear... more »

Russian ban leaves apple exporters scrambling for new markets

Russia was on everybody’s mind at Interpoma.On Nov. 20, speakers at the international apple conference held in Bolzano, Italy, discussed the world’s shifting apple markets. Many topics were covered, but Russia’s decision last summer to... more »

Orchard rides hard cider wave

When Andrew Blake first approached his family with the idea of starting a hard cider operation at Blake Farms cider mill and orchard in Armada, Michigan, the response was less than enthusiastic. “We told him... more »

China lifts ban on U.S. Red, Golden Delicious

In October, China reopened its borders to Red and Golden Delicious apples from Washington state, lifting a ban that had been in place for more than two years, according to the Washington Apple Commission (WAC).... more »

Research a priority for hort president

Research drives survival and growth in the agriculture industry, and a Michigan group remains focused on providing support for those efforts in a challenging funding climate. “The society, along with some of the other commodity... more »

Vacuum harvester redesigned to be self-propelled

A mechanical harvester that’s been in development for some time has undergone enough tweaks that its designers are nearly ready to bring the machine to the marketplace. Once again this fall, the machine – called... more »