Washington State Stone Fruit Pre-Season Crop Update - Taste the Difference -
May 2, 2008

The Washington State stone fruit crop is right on schedule, currently in the middle of bloom and pollination. Cooler spring time temperatures have resulted in about a 10% reduction in the 2008 stone fruit crop from 2007 crop levels, however, this natural bud and blossom thinning will lead to excellent fruit quality and large sizing. The cool temperatures do not seem to have affected the timing of the crop. Look for Washington State Apricots to begin shipping the middle part of June and to continue into early September. Washington Peaches will begin shipping the 3rd week of July continuing into October. Promotional Tip: A recent unbiased taste test conducted by Oregon State University revealed that consumers prefer Washington State Peaches to other peaches on the marketplace nearly 4 to 1. Stock Washington State Peaches to drive stone fruit sales and consumer satisfaction. Good Luck and good selling.