WEST VIRGINIA APPLE CROP PROFILE
Production Statistics: Apple production in West Virginia has averaged 143 million pounds (3.4 million bushels), with an average value of $13.3 million, over the past five years resulting in a state ranking of ninth in U.S. production (1). Approximately 22% of the crop was marketed as fresh and 78% for processing during this period. Apple production has occurred on an average of 9,000 acres representing 126 commercial fruit growers over the past five years (2). Ninety-five percent of the apple trees in West Virginia are located in the four eastern counties of Berkeley, Hampshire, Jefferson and Morgan (2). In 1994, the top five varieties were Red Delicious, York, Golden Delicious, Rome and Stayman, representing 83% of the total number of trees (2). In the past few years, increased planting of newer varieties such as Gala, Ginger Gold and Fuji has occurred. In 1994, 41% of existing trees were standard and 59% were semi-dwarf and dwarf trees (2). More recent plantings have favored dwarf trees and some semi-dwarf, with virtually no standard sized trees.
Production Practices: The apple production season begins with bud break in late March or early April, bloom in the latter part of April, and harvest for most varieties in September and October. Spring frosts and hail damage are problems for some growers in most years, and drought conditions can effect yields in some years. Typical culture consists of Kentucky-31 tall fescue between the tree rows and a weed-free strip within the tree row maintained with herbicides. Approximately 8 to 11 applications of crop protection chemicals are made annually for the control of 20 to 25 arthropod pests and diseases (3, 4). Plant growth regulators (2 to 3 applications) are applied to thin fruit, control tree growth, improve fruit quality, and for drop control prior to harvest (3, 4). Growers are very active in monitoring their orchards and spray decisions are made on a block by block basis, and even for a specific variety within a block. Materials selected and rates of application can vary widely among growers. Most orchards receive annual pruning during the dormant season.