More than 10 million trees - the most in state history - provide spectacular scenery

of pink and white blossoms; photographers encouraged to visit orchards

 

FISHERS, N.Y. -- The New York Apple Association today announced that the 2008 apple growing season is underway as bloom began across the state--with some varieties already in full bloom in the Hudson Valley. 

 

Western New York farms and orchards along Lake Champlain are expected to bloom in the coming days.

 

This year will be particularly spectacular as more than 10 million trees will be in bloom, the most number of apple trees ever in state history.

 

"As consumer demand for our apples continues to grow, so does the number of trees we are putting in the ground," said NYAA President Jim Allen.

 

"We encourage photographers, or anyone who appreciates spectacular scenery to visit our orchards to witness this most beautiful time in the orchard," Allen said.

 

Consumers can click on www.nyapplecountry.com to find a nearby orchard.

 

Bloom conditions have generally been fair so far this spring, however some growers in the Hudson Valley have had damage from frost and unusually cold weather. 

 

"While we hope to have a successful bloom and pollination period this month, we also will need the cooperation of Mother Nature for the duration of the growing season to ensure a good, healthy crop in the fall," Allen said.

 

When trees are already flowering, they become very susceptible to freezing conditions.  If flowers are killed off, no fruit will grow.

 

This week is forecast for sunshine throughout much the state.  Sunny mild days encourage blossoming and strong bee activity for pollination.  Fruit develops from clusters of blossoms after they are pollinated by bees.

 

New York is coming off one of the biggest harvest ever, when approximately 30.4 million bushels were picked last fall.  Fruit quality was outstanding.  New York ranks second in apple production nationwide.

 

There are 697 commercial orchards in the state, on approximately 42,000 acres.

 

 

About the New York Apple Association:

Based in Fishers, N.Y., the NYAA is the nonprofit agricultural trade association representing the commercial apple growers in New York.  It supports profitable growing and marketing of New York apples through increasing demand for apples and apple products; representing the industry at state and federal levels and serving as the primary information source on New York apple related matters.