Moderate weather conditions contribute to a projected 124 million boxes, signaling a robust and diverse apple harvest across popular and emerging varietals.

Washington State is poised for a promising apple season in 2024, with the Washington State Tree Fruit Association (WSTFA) releasing a forecast of 124 million standard forty-pound boxes of fresh apples.

This projection signals a return to recent historical norms following two years of irregular production. The moderate weather conditions that characterized the spring and early summer of 2024 have been pivotal in ensuring a robust and high-quality harvest. This crop, while slightly smaller than the 136.1 million boxes produced during last year’s “rebound” season, marks a significant improvement over the 2022 harvest, which was notably impacted by cool and wet weather, resulting in only 103.9 million boxes.

WSTFA President Jon DeVaney expressed optimism about the quality and quantity of this year’s crop, stating, “There is a lot of excitement as we are seeing a more normal harvest and excellent fruit quality this year.” He attributed the stable growing conditions to the moderate spring and warm early summer, which have together fostered the renowned flavor, size, and color that Washington apples are famous for. The harvest, already underway, is expected to maintain the state’s reputation for producing top-tier apples for both domestic and international markets.

The 2024 forecast also highlights a continuing trend toward greater diversity and specialization in apple varietals. Gala apples lead the production estimates at 19%, followed by Granny Smith at 14.5%, Red Delicious at 13%, Honeycrisp at 12%, and Fuji at 10.5%. Notably, the Cosmic Crisp® apple, developed specifically for the unique growing conditions of Eastern Washington by Washington State University, is anticipated to account for 9% of the total crop. This represents a significant increase in its share of the market since its introduction in 2019 when it comprised just 1% of the harvest. By 2023, Cosmic Crisp® had already grown to represent 6% of the crop, underscoring its rising popularity among consumers.

The organic apple sector continues to expand, with organic apples expected to constitute nearly 16% of the total crop, up from 11% just five years ago. As noted in the WSTFA press release, Washington state is the leading producer of organic apples in the United States, contributing over 90% of the nation’s organic apple output. This growth reflects the industry’s responsiveness to increasing consumer demand for organic produce. According to WSTFA President DeVaney, “Our growers work hard to deliver the apples that consumers want and enjoy, and for many consumers, that includes organics.”

Apples remain a cornerstone of Washington state’s agricultural economy, representing 16% of the state’s total farm-gate agricultural value, which amounted to $2 billion in 2022. The significance of this crop is further highlighted by the fact that nearly 30% of the apple harvest is exported, showcasing Washington apples’ global appeal and importance to international markets.

Derek Sandison, Director of the Washington State Department of Agriculture, emphasized the economic and cultural importance of the apple industry, stating, “Apples are synonymous with Washington state, and we are known for producing the world’s finest apples.” He added that the favorable growing conditions of the past year have set the stage for a harvest that is not only abundant in quantity but also exceptional in quality.

The WSTFA’s apple forecast, based on a comprehensive survey of its members, provides the best estimate of the total volume of apples expected to be harvested in 2024 and destined for the fresh market. This estimate, however, does not account for apples sold to processors. As the harvest period, which typically runs from August through November, progresses, the forecast may be subject to adjustments based on actual conditions and yield.

In addition to the numerical forecast, the WSTFA has made available video and audio content featuring President Jon DeVaney discussing the 2024 apple forecast. Media outlets interested in supplementary visuals, such as B-roll footage of apple orchards and harvesting, are encouraged to contact Kasia Guzik at kguzik@kiterocket.com.

The Washington State Tree Fruit Association continues to play a pivotal role in representing the interests of Washington’s apple, pear, and sweet cherry growers, packers, and marketers. Through its efforts, the WSTFA ensures that the state’s fruit industry remains at the forefront of both national and international markets, contributing significantly to the state’s economy and supporting tens of thousands of jobs.