Alternative Crop Decision Tool:
Apple
Alternative Crop Decision Tool:
Apple
The questions below result in a composite score ranging from 0 to 100. A score of 0 indicates 'do not plant the crop', while a score of 100 would indicate 'there is absolutely no reason not to plant the crop'. There will be few instances of a score of 100. The icon(s) shown next to each question is meant to serve as a resource for producers relevant to each specified question shown. The questions below are intended to show red flag type concerns.
1. Selecting an apple production site is a long-term investment as orchards may live for years if the growing conditions fit the crop's needs. Do you have an appropriate apple tree production location that provides good air and water drainage and deep soils?
Yes
No
No
2. Have you identified sufficient fresh or processing markets that will demand your apple crop soon after harvest, or do you have the right environment for storing apples and extending the marketing season?
Yes
No
No
3. Can your operation source enough apple rootstock in varied cultivars that are resistant to apple diseases, such as scab and fire blight, that may be problematic in Missouri?
Yes
No
No
4. To produce apples, growers rely on a labor force to establish and maintain apple orchards and harvest and market the apple crop. Does your operation have adequate access to human labor to conduct these activities?
Yes
No
No
5. Apple trees require several years to mature and produce a full fruit crop. From a financial perspective, can your operation manage an apple orchard's upfront investment costs and wait several years for the orchard to establish itself before earning a return?
Yes
No
No
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