Plum harvest thrives in Hardanger as growers report exceptional yields

In the steep orchards of Jørund Olav Grønsnes in Jåstad, Hardanger, the plum harvest is in full swing. Three workers have been hired to assist the fruit farmer during this fruitful season.

“This year has great yields, both in quantity and quality,” says Grønsnes with a broad smile. He recalls a spectacular blooming season and a warm, sunny May, which laid the groundwork for a successful harvest.

The current plum production is set to be the best in three years, with national forecasts predicting over 1,700 tons of plums this year—300 tons more than last year, which was also a strong harvest. The West Coast is seeing particularly good yields, while Midt-Telemark anticipates slightly lower production compared to last year, though it’s not a major concern, according to a local fruit cooperative manager.

However, not all farms report a positive outcome; one farmer noted he didn’t harvest a single plum from his trees.

In Lier and Svelvik, where fruit production is also substantial, the plum season is thriving as well.

From the farm in Sørfjorden, plums are sent to Hardanger Fjordfrukt in Utne, where 15 workers from around the world are busy sorting, packing, and labeling the fruit. “Right now is peak plum season, and we hope consumers will appreciate our plums,” says Solveig Botnen, the company’s manager.

Plums must be harvested at the right time, creating busy days for Grønsnes, who manages a total of 14,000 fruit trees, including plums and apples. “Plum trees are labor-intensive, and expanding the orchard would require hiring more workers,” he explains.

First-time plum picker Aigars Klovs from Latvia enjoys the work, despite having eaten his fill of delicious fruit. “I must focus on not picking them too ripe or too green,” he adds with a smile.