Therefore, orchard sanitation, pest identification, monitoring and prevention are essential elements of successful organic apple production. Also, the timing of material applications is critical for effective insect and disease control in apples. Apples are hand thinned as opposed to chemical thinning in the conventional and ICM budgets. The number of thinnings depends on the variety, seasonal conditions, and targeted market. Growers often thin higher value apples more than one time each year in order to produce consumer-preferred large size fruit.
Harvesting is performed by the grower and is done by hand.
This study assumes that harvest takes place in October. The assumed fresh market yield for organic apples is 375 boxes per acre. Boxes weigh 40 pounds and are tray packed. Yields may vary widely depending on such factors as planting density, variety, orchard age, production location, and seasonal growing conditions.