Here’s a look at what’s coming out of the fields this month, as California continues to roll with unusually warm weather, a lighter-than-predicted grape crop, and pest issues.
Central Valley
In the Central Valley, nuts and grapes are the biggest crops of the season. The almond harvest is almost complete, with an estimated total of 2.6 billion pounds. The walnut harvest is running more than a week ahead of schedule, and this month’s warm weather has forced growers to extend their irrigation schedules. Finally, grape producers are finding themselves in a tough spot. Demand for wine has decreased by 20% over the last five years, and in areas like Lodi and the San Joaquin Valley, growers are having a hard time selling their grapes.
Salinas Valley
In Salinas, cool-season crops haven’t been enjoying these recent warm spells. That includes staples like lettuce, broccoli, and cauliflower. The crops are currently dealing with issues like INSV and diamondback moths, and that’s resulted in lower yields, particularly for broccoli and iceberg lettuce.
North Coast
This year’s wine-grape harvest began very early, which means much of the crop has already been harvested. In Napa and Sonoma, vineyards are now focusing on post-harvest irrigation and equipment maintenance.
Southern California
California’s avocado crop is predicted to reach 330 million pounds, although imports and pest concerns continue to challenge local growers. In the citrus industry, the Valencia orange season is almost over. Numbers are up, as is fruit size! With the Valencia season wrapping up, growers are now transitioning to early-season mandarins and Navel oranges.
October is a transitional month, giving growers the chance to pivot between the summertime harvest and whatever’s coming next. As you get ready for the next production cycle, put FGS on your schedule! We’d love to see you at one of our supply centers and help you get stocked up for the new season.