Early pomegranate crop expected to be higher

If weather conditions continue stable, pomegranate growers in California’s Central Valley expect that the total volume of early varieties should easily pass last year’s total.

 This is particularly true of the ruby, granada and early wonderful varieties, according to a news release from the Pomegranate Council. As usual, the council said the early season varieties tend to be a bit smaller than the wonderful variety (peaking on 20 to 22) and somewhat lighter in color. 

Sugar is high for fruit picked in early August at the southern end of the San Joaquin Valley, according to the release.

Meanwhile, the council said that reports from wonderful variety growers suggest that the total harvest could be somewhat below early projections because of an unusual bloom drop that appears to have been related to excessive wind at a crucial point in the fruit’s development.

Increased market development funding from the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service has permitted the Pomegranate Council to expand seasonal promotional support in Korea, Japan, Australia and New Zealand, according to the release. Funding has also been received for promotions in Brazil and Colombia.

Recently concluded research that confirms pest mitigation at a much lower application of methyl bromide has been forwarded to Australia for review, with the hope that a timely turnaround will allow for adjustment this season, resulting in improved fruit quality on arrival. A follow-up study is underway that may confirm phosphene gas treatment is just as effective as methyl bromide in assuring safe arrivals at export destinations, according to the release.

“With Mother Nature’s continued cooperation, this season’s pomegranate harvest should provide high-quality, promotable volumes for all levels of trade,” the council said.