The harvest of Gala apples in South Tyrol, Italy, has been completed, confirming a decline in crop volumes. One of the main reasons for the decrease was the small size of the fruit, reports EastFruit, citing Sad24.
One factor that could support prices is the lower yield and reduced supply of Gala apples in Italy. In South Tyrol, where the Gala harvest has already finished, local cooperatives and auction representatives have confirmed lower volumes.
According to the Asta Frutta auction, the volume of Gala apples was approximately 15% lower than last year. This figure applies to one company, but a similar situation is being observed at other cooperatives in the region.
WAPA’s preliminary forecast had indicated a year-on-year decline of around 4% in Italy’s Gala harvest. More accurate figures are expected after the European forecasts are updated, with the new data scheduled to be presented in November at the Interpoma trade fair.
Read also: Apple prices for Gala variety rise in Poland
The main problem in Italy was apple size. Orchards in the southern part of the valley, around Trentino, were particularly affected by the heat. Fruit quality was better in higher-altitude areas. Another factor was a decline in fruit firmness.
At the same time, sunburn did not cause significant losses. The vast majority of orchards in South Tyrol are protected by hail nets, which also reduce exposure to solar radiation.
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