Labor Efficiency Economics in Apple Planting Systems
Matthew Wells, Production Economics & Business Management
Lake Ontario Fruit Program
NYS apple growers are investing in new high density apple planting systems which allow for increases in labor efficiency through various levels of mechanization. Various types of orchard platforms (reducing ladder usuage for handthinning, tree training, trellis installation and perhaps harvest) and tractor mounted shearers (replacing summer pruning) reportedly increase labor efficiency from 10-90%.
Labor Efficiency Economics in Apple Planting Systems (pdf; 262KB)
Upcoming Events
Apple Leafcurling Midge IPM - Webinar

February 16, 2023
In recent years, the apple leafcurling midge (ALCM) has become an increasingly problematic pest in many orchards across the northeast.
Western NY Fruit Conference - "State of the Industry"

February 27 - February 28, 2023
Henrietta, NY
CCE-LOF are excited to bring you a muti-day fruit conference in WNY! This is replacing our Winter Fruit Schools. Tentative Agenda is now available.
Fire Blight Informational Series - Michigan Fire Blight Meeting
March 1, 2023 : Michigan Fire Blight Meeting
Traverse City, MI
The team leading the national fire blight SCRI grant "Comprehensive Fire Blight Management for the United States" is hosting a March meeting (in person or virtual) as well as a webinar series. This multi-state series will address new research on best management practices for fire blight control. You are encouraged to attend these events which will provide cutting edge research recommendations into how to manage fire blight. Each session eligible for some DEC credits (see below for quantities, and bottom of article for direction on how to receive credit).