As you may have noticed, 2012 has been an exceptionally unusual year in the weather department. We started the year off with an warm winter with practically no snow, this led into March where we had over a week of 80+ degree days. That caused the trees to go into blossom early, very early in fact over a month ahead of schedule. Unfortunately, the warm weather ended in April and we had a few nights of frost, which killed off over 90% of the crop.
That would have been calamity in itself any other year. However, this year’s farming weather continued to deteriorate. Without the usual snow pack from the winter months, the ground started the year off drier than normal. We then entered a drought stage where we received only fractions of an inch of rain throughout much of the important growing season, which made the problems for the crop worse. Apples, as with any other crop, require moisture and nutrients to grow and develop. The lack of moisture this year put a lot of stress on the remaining crop. We were forced to hand-water the younger trees to prevent a complete loss.
All of that is to say this: The 2012 apple crop is very slim across the nation. From New York to Washington, everyone experienced a very harsh growing season. Our situation is not unique. We have approximately 10% of a normal crop across the board, with some varieties bearing no fruit at all. As we do each year, we have looked at the crop we have available and have set our price to be able to cover our costs. U-Pick apples will be available beginning on September 1, for $1.00 per lb. You will find that given the worldwide shortage of apples, this is still a very competitive price.
Honeycrisp apples will be available beginning on September 1, pre-picked ONLY. The price will be $13.00 per 1/2 peck, and we will offer them in peck and half peck sizes.
We will not be sending out postcards this year due to the limited crop. If you are on the mailing list, simply ask and we will give you your normal discount. We plan to resume sending the postcards next year.
As always, if you are looking for a particular variety please call ahead (219-872-3140) to ensure its availability.
We appreciate your business and understanding during this difficult year.