Pear growers in Washington and Oregon faced challenging growing conditions this year leading to one of the smallest crops the industry has seen in over 40 years.
A freeze back in January damaged trees, leading to fewer blooms. Further crop declines followed thanks to a cold spring and summer hail.
With this year’s crop quantity only expected to reach 10.6 million boxes, fruit quality is also of concern.
According to Jeff Correa, “In some districts, we’re having good quality more in the normal range where you’re getting, you know, 80-85% U.S. Number 1, 10-15% fancy, you know a third grade.”
As a result of the short crop, fewer pears are expected to make it to the market. While U.S. pears are typically sold domestically, some also make their way to Mexico, Canada, and South America.
