Several NY apple growers have indicated they see a marketing opportunity for NY grown organic apples (both fresh and processed products) and have requested a Cornell University led effort to develop a system of organic apple production for NY. In 2001 we studied insect pest management, fruit thinning, and weed control tactics that are organically approved. Funding from Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF) and the Cornell Organic Farming Grants Program.

Looks at the current state of organic apple production in the western U.S., where it's a "done deal," and in the eastern U.S. where serious challenges remain. Provides an overview of the latest research.

This web site includes organic budgets for selected field crops, vegetables, fruits, and livestock. An Interactive Smartform is also provided to enable growers to create their own custom crop budgets based on the calculation of costs and returns of production. From Rutgers Cooperative Extension. Note 12/04: "The crop budgets are being revised. Updated versions will be posted when available."

To demonstrate a need for information about thinning of apple fruit suitable to organic systems, a survey was conducted by mail and internet. The survey typified organic apple orchards in the U.S., demonstrated the need for research in this area, and created a database of current best practices used by certified organic apple growers. Published in Horticultural Studies 2001 (Research Series 494), Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station.

To aid the growing organic grape industry in the Midwest, there is a need for variety trials and other organic grape research. The organic grape variety trial was continued at the Neely-Kinyon Research and Demonstration Farm in 2005. Bluebell, Edelweiss, Foch, and Frontenac varieties were planted in 2001, and yield, average cluster weight, and number of clusters per vine were measured in 2005. Bluebell had a significantly higher yield and number of clusters per vine than the other varieties. Edelweiss had the highest average cluster weight but was not significantly than the Bluebell variety. The organic variety trial at the Neely- Kinyon Farm will be continued in 2006.