Goodbye to apples: A new study reveals that future production of the fruit may be in danger
Scientists have warned long-term production of the fruit in the United States could drop off, based on current trends.
“An apple a day keeps the doctor away”. The old proverb may need to be amended in the future with scientists warning long-term production of the fruit in the United States could be in danger.
Why is the future production of apples in danger?
It’s all down to climate change.
The revelation comes from a Washington State University study entitled “Changing climate risks for high-value tree fruit production across the United States.”
Researchers claim that six key climate metrics which they believe are key to producing apples, as well as other fruit, are trending “in a direction that has potential to adversely impact the yield, quality aspects such as sweetness, color, cosmetic damage, storability or other characteristics that affect marketability.”
Key climate metrics for apple production
- Cold degree days
- Chill portions (number of colder hours an apple tree needs to be dormant)
- Last day of spring frost
- Growing degree days (GDD, number of days above a certain temperature that are conducive for apples to grow)
- Extreme heat days (daily maximum temperature over 34 degrees Celsius, or 93.2 degrees Fahrenheit)
- Warm nights (daily minimum temperatures over 15 degrees Celsius, or 59 degrees Fahrenheit)
Results from the study show the three top-producing apple regions in the United States (Yakima in Washington, Kent in Michigan, and Wayne in New York) have seen drop-offs in at least three of the six metrics, with Yakima County negatively affected in five of them.
The bleak future of apples in the United States
What could the end result be, then? Well, unsurprisingly, fewer apples.
And American apples are in demand, as the fruit is the US’ fourth-highest agricultural export, according to government data. If you’re an apple lover, your favorite fruit might start costing you more before too long.
The Specialty Crop Research Initiative (SCRI) program, a $75 million grant fund, is, through researching adaptation measures, helping farmers keep their crops, including apples, in as good condition as possible in the face of climate change.
As with so many things, however, tackling climate change head on would be the most effective way to ensure apple production continues to prosper, which many of us take for granted.
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