Apple growers in the prolific apple-producing region of Finger Lakes, especially in Wayne County are experiencing varied impacts on their harvest this year due to a late frost in May.
Gregory Peck, an associate professor of horticulture at Cornell University, told the Finger Lakes Times that the geographical placement of the orchards played a crucial role in determining the extent of damage this past spring, with proximity to large water bodies generally offering protection by delaying bloom times.
This variance in microclimates has led to some orchards enduring substantial losses, while others managed to escape with minimal damage.
The late frost’s ramifications extend to the entire state of New York, typically the second-largest apple producer in the nation is expected to yield about 4 million fewer bushels compared to last year.
Despite these setbacks, promotional activities and advertisements for apple-picking, fresh apple cider, and craft apple cider destinations are being actively pursued to bolster the state’s apple industry. Harvesting began in August and is likely to conclude by early November.
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