California Dried Plum Crop Forecast Up 12%

The 2014 California dried plum (prune) crop is forecast at 95,000 tons, up 12% from the 85,000 tons produced in 2013. Total 2014 bearing acreage is estimated at 49,000. Dried plum trees were pulled after the 2013 harvest, reducing acreage by 2% for the 2014 season.

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The French prune variety accounts for virtually all dried plum acreage grown in California. The production forecast is based on a survey of dried plum growers conducted by the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service’s Pacific Regional Office from May 6-27.

The survey used a random sampling design based on total dried plum acreage for each operator. The sample is designed to provide a state estimate of production for all growers.

Questionnaires were mailed to growers on April 21, with return requested by May 5. Non-respondents were telephoned. Responses were received from 253 growers whose acres represent 48% of the total bearing acreage.

The 2014 dried plum bloom was a bit longer than usual, with warm temperatures mostly toward the end. This was a concern for some growers. The set in Yuba and Sutter counties is excellent, while set in other areas is erratic. Harvest is expected to begin around the middle of August.

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Source: USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service

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