The Peru Gazette

Peru – September 14, 2021 –  It’s apple harvest time in Peru.  The hard-working Jamaican men picked early varieties such as Paula Reds first, and now they are concentrating on the beautiful Honeycrisp apples.  The Jamaican men were hard at work adjacent to the River Road early this afternoon. Asked if they liked the beautiful 71-degree day, the supervisor responded, “No, we like it a little cooler.” 

Orchardist Seth Forrence said he’d also like to see cooler weather, especially at night.  He commented, “We have a nice crop this year, but the Macs need cold nights to bring out the bright red colors.” Overnight temperatures in the ’40s would be good. Last spring’s constantly changing weather is also influencing this year’s crop. The hot then cold temperatures resulted in uneven pollination, hence the apples are maturing at varying times. As a result, the hard-working apple pickers will have to pick each tree twice or more.