Apple Prices Start to Rise - WLNS TV 6 Lansing - Jackson | Your Local News Leader

The states apple crop turned up only about 3 million bushels, compared to the average 23 million.

"It's something we just cant control," said one local farmer. "Real story is what you don't see. All these apple trees should be filled with 2/3 of apples and they're just not there."

Statewide, nearly 90 percent of the apple crop was lost after an early heat wave followed by a frost filled spring.

"We don't see doubling of cider prices so that really is how bad it is," said MSU Agriculture Professor Jim Hilker.

Depending on the producer and how they faired this year, the price will vary, but they're all going in one direction: up. 

"Most apple cider is made from apples within the state, especially in Michigan we don't import a lot of apples from other places, generally because we are a big apple producer," said Hilker.

But this year, some farmers may have to resort to getting apples from other places. Last year in October, two gallons of cider cost around $5, but today at a local grocery story, just one gallon was $7. Fresh apple prices are also on the rise. A limited supply will ensure that ceratin kinds will go faster.

"We are already preparing for next year and the great crop next year will bring," said another local farmer.