Laurel wilt has hurt Florida’s avocado groves

Florida green skin avocados yields are not where they should be, although fruit quality is good. “Unfortunately this year’s crop is down,” said Steve Kiral of Uncle Matt’s Organic. “The fruit quality that we have is good – there’s certainly no problems as far as (that) and demand remains good. We don’t have a huge supply right now because of the Laurel Wilt disease that’s impacting the south Florida area.” The invasive ambrosia beetle has been infecting the state's groves - both organic and conventionally grown avocados.

Being an organic farm has affected treatments for the disease, making it hard to eradicate the pest. “There are some organic sprays but short of that until somebody comes up with a cure in a few more years it could (potentially) wipe out the avocado industry in the Redlands district down in south Florida,” said Kiral.

Competing with traditional, smaller fruit such as the has variety has required a lot of consumer education, something Kiral feels they’ve done a very good job with. The supply he has is good to a few select customers. “Unfortunately I don’t see any growth potential until this disease (is cured),” he said. Now about seven weeks into their season, orders are being covered.“Maybe some of the later varieties will produce more here but again the disease is our first area of attack and making sure it’s contained as best as possible.”

For more information:

Steve Kiral
Uncle Matt’s Organic
Ph: 352.394.8737
steve@unclematts.com
www.unclematts.com