Some European gardeners refuse to pick apples

Due to the rapid increase in the price of electricity, unfavorable weather conditions that reduced the harvest and a lack of personnel, some apple growers have given up harvesting, according to the World Apple and Pear Association (WAPA). "The rapid rise in electricity prices is another problem. This can increase storage costs to unacceptable levels for manufacturers. Some producers may be forced not to harvest in order to avoid economic consequences," the statement said. WAPA says it is seriously concerned about the final crop and the competitiveness of growers and sees a potential threat to business continuity in the industry. Also this season, climate change played its role again, which affected the size of the fruits. "Intensive weather conditions in August (abnormal heat and drought in some regions) negatively affected the size and color of the crop. This probably means that more fruit will go into the processing sector," WAPA reports. The weather affected both the size and ...