French producers of organic Juliet apples have released their crop forecast for the next four years.

The bi-coloured apple, which has been marketed exclusively by Cardell Export SAS since July 2007, is naturally resistant to mildew and scab was selected because of its taste.

The crop is expected to reach 600 tonnes this year, with 420t grown in the South East, 150t in the South West, and 30t in the Loire Valley.

This is expected to step up to 1,500t in 2009, 3,000t in 2010, and 10,000t in 2011, all in France.

Plans for southern hemisphere production will see New Zealand plant two hectares of commercial production in June this year, and this will be increased to 10ha by June 2009.

The variety was nominated for the Fruit Logistica Innovation Award last year.

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