Turkish Vineyard & Orchard Report Q3 02.10.24
The Vineyards
The 2024 harvest season concluded by the end of September, with the month being the most crucial for grape harvesting, drying, and cleaning, all of which were carried out intensively. Due to the higher-than-usual temperatures this year, the harvest began earlier, and all drying sheets have now been fully collected. Under optimal weather conditions, sultanas usually dry within 7 to 10 days, while Natural Turkish Seedless Raisins take between 14 to 20 days. However, despite the early harvest, rainfall in the first week of September extended the drying period for sultanas to 15-16 days.
Yield
By the end of August, the registered yield for the 2023 crop was recorded at 193,000 tons, according to Commodity Exchange data. The Ministry of Agriculture has projected an estimated yield of around 226,000 tons for the upcoming season.
Quality & Weather Conditions
Despite the overall good quality of the crop, recent rainfall caused some darkening of the berries. After completing the cleaning process, growers began storing the dried grapes in their warehouses.
In Manisa, September temperatures ranged from 15°C to 32°C, staying within the seasonal average with generally mild conditions. Sunny weather is forecasted for the first week of October.
Apricot Orchards
In Malatya's apricot orchards, post-harvest maintenance became a priority in September. After the harvest, growers are clearing leftover fruit and debris from the orchards to promote healthy tree growth. Irrigation is being conducted to meet the water requirements of the trees.
Turkish growers are also focusing on autumn fertilization and pest control to ensure the trees remain healthy heading into winter. Soil cultivation is underway to improve aeration and help nutrients reach the roots. Additionally, pruning plans are being made, identifying dry or damaged branches in preparation for the next season.
Weather Conditions
In September, temperatures in Malatya ranged from 7°C to 35°C, with above-average warmth. The first week of October is expected to be mostly sunny.
Fig Orchards
By the end of September, the final rows of figs in higher-altitude areas are being harvested. Overall, the fig harvest for drying has been completed in all regions.
Post-harvest, some growers are aerating the soil and applying nutrient supplements to help the fig trees enter winter in optimal health.
Weather Conditions
In Aydın, September temperatures ranged from 12°C to 38°C, staying within seasonal norms. Sunny conditions are expected in the first week of October.
via Pagmat