French summer pear growers are becoming increasingly interested in the UK, according to Michel Fabre, chairman of the French Pear committee.
Producers in the major production region of the south east, historically known for Guyots and Williams, are interested in developing red skinned and blushed varieties for the UK, he said.
Some, such as Forelle, are already in commercial bearing. Others which look promising include Red Satin and Cascade.
“Volumes are very small at present,” said Fabre, “but we see the potential of developing a niche market as we recognise that multiples are always
interested in new types of fruit to make a point of difference.”
Orchards can take up to seven years to reach full yields. Their introduction, though, is an indication of the increased confidence evident in the industry, where acreage fell during the 1970s and 1980s because of low prices. Today, many of the smaller orchards have been taken over to make larger, more economic, units, and acreage has stabilised.
This year as harvesting of Guyot begins, Fabre estimates that size, shape and quality are good, despite earlier variable weather conditions.
“Similar to the majority of European tree fruit crops, we started to harvest a week later, around July 29. Williams should follow in about three weeks.
“We think, though, that the final total volumes might be slightly lighter than last year.”
After allowing some 15% for culls, trees should produce 90% Class I fruit, so there should be 60,000 tonnes of Guyots and 80,000 tonnes of Williams.
David Shapley