HMC News – February 2025
Our early season varieties are in full bloom. We expect our mid and late season varieties to be in full bloom by the end of the month. The rainstorm we were expecting this month fizzled. The estimates started at over half an inch and the final total was .2inches. There is rain predicted again with some cold weather to follow. Now is when we watch the weather, prepare for what we can, and wait and hope until Spring.
This year, HMC is receiving its first grapes imported from Chile under the newly approved Systems Approach Protocol. The Systems Approach replaces the traditional methyl bromide fumigation with a series of mitigation and inspection measures that take place in Chile. This new technique will allow Chile to export approximately 60% of its grapes without fumigation into the U.S. Market. The adoption of the Systems Approach Protocol signifies a pivotal advancement for Chilean table grape exports, with a goal of improved fruit quality and a stronger presence in the U.S. market.
Rootstock selection is based on the commodity we’re planting, soil type and planting location, and varietal performance. Certain rootstocks are compatible for all commodities, but some, like our preferred plum rootstock, are not compatible with peaches and nectarines. Soil type and location is considered since trees and vines behave differently in different soils. For example, if we have clay soil, we choose a rootstock that will thrive in those conditions. Rootstocks also have an influence on the tree/vine growing characteristics, fruit quality, and harvest timing. When we decide which combination we desire, the variety is grafted onto a rootstock and grown by the nursery, then delivered to us for planting a year later. This is known as a budded tree or vine.
We are out collecting pollen in our plum orchards. Because plums need a pollinator and are not self-fertile like peaches and nectarines, they are notoriously hard to set. The set refers to the number of flowers on the trees that fertilize and become fruit. Some varieties are more difficult to set than others, so they need additional help to establish a full crop for the coming season. We are currently collecting flowers in our orchards (pictured below), these flowers will be delivered to a processing facility this month. Once processed the pollen will be applied in our hard to set varieties with a blower system that is attached to a small ATV. The remainder of the pollen will be frozen for future needs.
