Almost Time

Almost Time. I’m Greg Martin with today’s Fruit Grower Report.

I have a wonderful view out my office window that includes an apple orchard down on the end of the hill just to the south. And while I know it is still early, I know that plans are being made and very soon there will be a load of activity just up the road and around the state as the 2010 fruit season gets underway. Apples, cherries, pears, apricots, peaches, nectarines, plums and more are all grown here in the Pacific Northwest. Not only is there a high demand for fresh fruit but the export market is important as well to send great products to the rest of the world. And that is not even talking about the myriad of varieties grown here. Most people thing of Bing’s when you say cherries but there are also Tieton’s, Rainier, Chelan, Lapins, Skeena and Sweethearts. Apple varieties are almost too many to mention but include Fuji, Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Pink Lady, Honey Crisp and a brand new apple simply called WA2 to mention only a few. Pears and peaches are similar with loads of delicious choices to make. When was the last time you stopped in the fresh fruit section of your local grocer and picked out something completely new? I have a habit of picking up one of each and having a tasting party with the family. As I look out my window and wish for spring I am also hoping for yet another wonderful year of delightful and delectable fresh fruit courtesy of the orchardists right here in the Pacific Northwest.

That’s today’s Fruit Grower Report. I’m Greg Martin on the Northwest Ag Information Network.