Lithuanian apple growers, represented by the head of the 'Fruits and Berries' association, Vitalija Kuliešiene, are grappling with a shortage of apples just as February begins. The primary reason for this shortfall is last year's spring frosts, which affected apple trees and resulted in fewer apples being available this year. While it may be possible for larger farms to have supplies stretch to mid-February, the overall situation is dire.

In the Panevėžys region, local farmers like Rimantas and Vaiva Urbonavičiai and Paulius Speičys are mentioned as potential sources of apples; however, their sales methods through grocery stores rather than markets do not indicate a surplus. The conversation reveals concerns that local growers may not have enough apples to meet demand, compounding the issue as the winter progresses.

Specifically, the yield from the Dembava nursery was notably low, with only eight tons harvested, primarily summer apples. This yield was directly impacted by the spring frosts, and only apple trees that bloomed before the frost could produce fruit. The continuing lack of supply raises implications for both consumers and growers in Lithuania, with the potential for domestic apples becoming a luxury item in the near future due to these production challenges.