APAL Advise Apple & Pear Quality is Up

Apple & Pear Growers Association of SA have advised that although volumes are down from previous years, quality has been improved with the sector enjoying clean fruit this hail free season. The weather has been kind with the extended heatwave through December slowing down fruit growth but followed by milder months in February through to May, allowing the fruit to develop into a final product of excellent quality. Off the back of two years of hail and bushfires, this season will be about recovery and starting to build reserves. For added protection of the existing crops, the sector will commence horticultural netting. It is also anticipated that there will be more investment in new varieties and new plantings in the next year or two.