Coming off one of the largest avocado crops on record last year, California's growers are expecting diminished production this season.California avocado production is expected to reach 300 million pounds this year, which is significantly less than last year's production of 500 million pounds. But, as Jan DeLyser, vice president of marketing for the California Avocado Commission, pointed out, a 300 million pound crop is close to the expected production for a crop following a record year.
“With the alternate bearing nature of avocados, we expected a lighter volume, and the 300 million pounds falls in line with the historic average crop size of 300 million to 350 million pounds,” said DeLyser. Water shortages throughout the state aren't expected to significantly cut into this year's production, though some growers are moving up harvesting as a water conservation strategy. So while more avocados will be harvested in the spring and summer, volumes will not be lower than during a typical “off” year.
“Avocado supplies are expected to be good throughout the summer with continued increases in consumer demand,” said DeLyser. Volumes are expected to be available April through September.
For more information:
Jan DeLyser
California Avocado Commission
+1 949 341 1955