What is a Fly Crop?
In coffee cultivation, "Fly Crop" refers to the smaller secondary harvest that occurs in certain regions, such as Kenya, in opposition to the main harvest. The term is mysterious in origin and doesn't involve actual flies. The yield is smaller, and some claim the quality is lower than the main crop. Although some occasional good Fly Crop lots exist, they are often used in blends rather than being considered top-grade "Grand Cru" coffees, which are typically associated with the main crop. It is important to note that the quality of the Fly Crop can vary from year to year, and some roasters and importers may still seek out and purchase these coffees for their unique flavour profiles. Overall, the Fly Crop represents a smaller, more sporadic harvest that can provide an opportunity to taste distinct flavours in certain regions but is not typically considered to be of the same caliber as the main crop.
In addition to being a smaller harvest that occurs in opposition to the main crop, there are a few more important things to note about the fly crop. The exact origin of the term "fly crop" is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated from the fact that the fly population tends to increase during this time, possibly due to the ripening of other fruit in the area. However, there are no actual flies in the coffee crop itself.
While the quality of the fly crop is generally considered to be lower than the main crop, this is not always the case, and there have been some exceptional fly crop lots that have achieved high prices at auction. However, due to the smaller size of the harvest, fly crop coffees are typically less widely available and may be more difficult to obtain.
One interesting thing to note is that the timing of the fly crop can vary from year to year and is influenced by a variety of factors, including weather patterns and agricultural practices. This can make it more challenging for buyers and roasters to plan their purchases and production schedules, and can also lead to fluctuations in price and availability.