By Stemilt Growers
Stemilt’s apricot shipments will start around June 20th and run through the month of July, with the best volume occurring from June 25 and running through July 15.
“Sizing has done a complete reversal from last year,” states Brianna Shales, Stemilt communications director. “While last year brought smaller sizes and increased bag promotions, this year bulk is in. Sizing is going to be large with apricots in panta packs.”
Approximately 60 percent of Stemilt’s apricot crop is grown and certified organic. Stemilt’s Artisan Organics™ volume is heavy to the beginning of the season with the Robada variety.
After July 4th, focus shifts to the Rivals and Perfections apricot varieties.
According to the Organic Trade Association, organic produce has been holding its position as the largest organic food category, accounting for nearly 40 percent of all organic food sales in 2016.
“Organic share will continue to rise,” states Shales. “Apricots offers a great summertime organic offering to support organic category growth.”
Stemilt’s Artisan Organics™ stone fruits, which also include peaches and nectarines, come from the Douglas family orchards in the southeastern region of Washington State. The Douglases transitioned to organic more than a decade ago, citing the arid climate with cool nights as the main reason why they can grow dessert-flavored fruit organically.
“Summer is fast approaching and we are optimistic that the sizing, dessert flavors, and high percentage of organic apricots coming from the ideal Washington locale will make for a great season,” Shales says
About Stemilt
Stemilt Growers is a leading tree fruit growing, packing and shipping company based in Wenatchee, Washington. Owned and operated by the Mathison family, Stemilt is the leading shipper of sweet cherries and one of the nation’s largest suppliers of organic tree fruits. Stemilt has also demonstrated a commitment to sustainable agriculture and social responsibility since 1989, when founder Tom Mathison launched the company’s Responsible Choice program.
Yakima Valley apples – grossing bout $7000 to New York City.