Longterm Impacts of Heat-Stressed Fruit Remain Unknown

After record heat in June and July for the U.S. Northwest, fruit growers say the impact of the stress on production and quality remain uncertain. Amidst concerns over harvest totals that have yet to come in, growers say uncertainty around how the stored fruit will hold up is causing additional stress. Citrus growers are experiencing challenges of their own, after a below-average 2020-2021 production (12% decrease) stressed supplies, largely due to citrus greening disease and unexpected winter storms in Texas. A USDA outlook for next year’s growing season is expected to be released at some point in October, but indications are already pointing to another uncertain year. Read more on fruit production and challenges here.