Expectations for the Belgian top fruit sector are mixed according to latest forecasts.
While apple production is anticipated to be up only 1.5 per cent on last year’s poor harvest, pear producers are expecting an increase of around 22 per cent, around 213,000 tonnes. Across both sectors however, quality is improved on last year.
On the apple front, leading variety Jonagold is expected to remain relatively stable with a slight growth of 1.2 per cent to 169,100 tonnes. Elstar, meanwhile, is expecting growth of 16.7 per cent to13,000 tonnes and Jonagored around 5.6 per cent to 69,540 tonnes.
Golden Delicious volumes are expected to remain the same at 27,000 tonnes while Belle de Boskoop, Cox and other varieties will continue to decline.
On quality, little deterioration is expected as a result of skin roughening or frost damage and apple scab is only a minor problem this year.
The increase in pear production is being attributed to increased planting in recent years, combined with a good growing season.
Conference remains the cream of the crop and all pears are being described as heavy this year with pronounced bronzing. Doyenne has seen a significant increase this year, up 37.5 per cent to 15,400 tonnes.
