Apple Maturity Report, September 29, 2026 (J. Clements)
Quick recap
This was a weekly apple harvest maturity meeting led by Jon on September 29, 2026, where he provided updates on apple varieties and discussed the impact of recent weather on the apple season. Jon reported on the status of various apple varieties including Empire, McCown's, John O'Golds, Ambrosia, Shamrock, Hudson's Golden Gem, Ludicrous, Baker's Delight, Rosalie, and Scruffy, providing specific harvest recommendations and maturity assessments for each. The meeting included a discussion of new agricultural technology, specifically an intelligent spray system with LiDAR and PVM nozzles that can reduce pesticide use by 30-50%, though the cost remains a barrier for many orchards. Participants shared how the weekend's heavy rain and northeaster affected their businesses, with some farmers markets being canceled and pick-your-own operations being largely shut down on Sunday, creating significant concerns about catching up on harvest and meeting October deadlines with heavy crops still on the trees. Participants noted there will be apple picking into November.
Next steps
Jon
- Test Mutsu apples for maturity next week.
- Re-test Rosalie apples for maturity next week.
- Test Hudson's Golden Gem apples again next week.
- Test early Cripps Pink apples for harvest readiness next week.
- Consider looking into the SmartApply intelligent spray system for new sprayer purchases.
Russell
- Coordinate with others to arrange publicity efforts for apple picking after Columbus Day weekend.
Summary
Hat Selection Discussion
Jon showed Vincent and Ben a nice hat he had picked up and asked if he should wear it, receiving positive feedback from the others.
Apple Harvesting Updates Meeting
Jon led a meeting on apple harvesting updates, discussing the status of various apple varieties including Empire, McCown, John O'Gold, Ambrosia, Shamrock, Hudson's Golden Gem, Ludacris, and Rosalie. He provided specific recommendations on harvesting times based on maturity tests and weather conditions, noting that the recent wet weather may have delayed harvesting. Jon emphasized that Ambrosia apples should be harvested soon due to their low DA reading, while Rosalie apples should not be rushed as they may not develop good flavor with heavy cropping.
Apple Variety and Spray Technology
Jon discussed the apple variety Scruffy, noting its good flavor and potential for medium to small orchards. He announced that next week would be his last maturity report and planned to assess Crips Pink and Matsu varieties. Jon also shared information about an intelligent spray system with PVM nozzles and LiDAR technology that can automatically control spraying based on orchard conditions, potentially reducing pesticide use by 30-50%.
Weather Impact on Farmers Markets
The group discussed the impact of recent weather on their businesses, particularly the cancellation of farmers markets due to northeaster conditions. Andre reported significant losses from the weekend, noting they cannot recover the 4 days lost and have a heavy crop of apples that needs to be harvested quickly. Russell mentioned having an interview scheduled for after Columbus Day to maintain apple visibility during the next two weekends, which aligns with the group's strategy to avoid overwhelming their facilities with crowds. Participants noted there will be apple picking into November.
Business and Apple Harvest Updates
The group discussed business performance over the weekend, with participants noting that despite rain on Sunday, business was unexpectedly good at some locations while other areas were affected by weather conditions. The discussion included updates on apple picking seasons, with participants confirming that while the crop quality is good overall, some varieties like Crimson Crisp are not yet ready for optimal picking. Russell explained that while Crimson Crisp apples are sellable, they will be at their best in the coming week before a specific day when their quality peaks. Participants noted there will be apple picking into November.