Market Minute: Summer giving way to fall produce harvest

Before we know it, the fall equinox will arrive Sept. 22 in the Northern Hemisphere, officially announcing it is autumn once again. Soon there will be displays of fall apples, pears, cider and pumpkins in the stores. And add hard squash, gourds, decorative corn, persimmons, pomegranates and cranberries to the list.

Apples: According to the USDA, the U.S. apple production estimate will see a 3 percent increase over last year. The Washington storage crop is finishing up through September and new crop apples will start to ship in October. The current apple markets are steady with a moderate demand.

Pears: The new pear crop harvest is under way. The Pear Bureau Northwest reports that the 2022-23 crop for Washington and Oregon will be on par with the five-year average. The current market is steady.

Pumpkins: According to reports, we can expect plenty of pumpkins this year. The high temperatures accelerated growth, and pumpkins will be available early. Heirloom pumpkins and blended color pumpkins are also plentiful for this season.

Hard Squash: There are a number of different types of fall hard squash besides the old popular acorn, butternut, buttercup, Spaghetti and Hubbard varieties. There are also organic squash available from some local growers.

Ornamental Gourds and Decorative Corn: Various colors and shapes of gourds and the usual decorated dried corn will be plentiful this season.

Merchandising: Start now to set up some nice autumn display themes and include all the items from pumpkins to gourds. Some local farms and even produce distributors may be able to supply you with corn stalks. For more excitement, set up fall displays in front of the store or in a section of the parking lot. Add bins of apples, pears, pumpkins and other fall items to the mix. Don't forget the apple cider on ice.

Ron Pelger is a produce industry adviser and industry writer. He can be contacted at 775-843-2394 or by e-mail at [email protected].