Here in Lancaster, the apple trees are loaded with ripe fruit. In spite of potentially damaging weather conditions last spring, we’re so glad to see that this orchard, at least, will be stocking our favorite fall fruit.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that apple production is down about 14 percent across the nation, due to this past spring’s damaging cycles of early bloom and frost. According to the USDA, this year’s crop may be the smallest in more than two decades, with New York’s apple yield down by about half, and Michigan’s by nearly 90 percent.
Although some orchards in our area were affected, the damage around here was widely scattered. That means enough apples at the market, but fewer orchards offering public picking and higher prices for apple cider. We’re hoping for better weather and abundant apples for everyone next year!
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