“The California avocado harvest, which started as early as January for some growers and ramped up in earnest in April, continues with a range of sizes and excellent eating quality,” says Jan DeLyser with the California Avocado Commission. Based on industry projections, this year’s crop is about 75 percent harvested. Since avocados do not ripen on the tree, it is difficult to predict exactly how long the season will last. The latest industry forecast indicates that California avocado growers in the southern growing regions will be mostly done after the Fourth of July, while growers in the north may continue into August and beyond. “However, the timing of the harvest is impacted by weather, labor availability, market supply and pricing,” DeLyser added.
Demand exceeds supply
Distribution is expected to stay at current levels through mid-July. “Some larger retailers may begin transitioning then and others may go longer. Some retail and foodservice customers have committed to stay with California avocados through the end of the season,” shared DeLyser. The volume of this year’s crop is expected to be 200 million pounds, a 50 percent decrease compared to last year because of the alternate-bearing nature of avocado trees. The lower volume has caused demand to exceed supply this season. However, there is good news for California avocado lovers. Based on early indications, California avocado growers anticipate a larger crop next season to fulfill increasing demand.
Fourth of July is a key consumption time for avocados with 100 million pounds of avocados expected to be consumed around the 4th of July holiday. California is expected to supply approximately 21 million pounds for the holiday period.
Impact of recent high temperatures
The effects of the recent high temperatures have not yet been fully assessed. “However, it is not unusual for the California industry to experience early summer heat incidents, resulting in fruit drop of both current and new crops,” mentioned DeLyser. “We do not foresee this weather event as having a detrimental impact on the crops currently on the trees,” she added.
Increased productivity per acre
The California avocado acreage has declined in some areas, but the industry has increased high-density plantings, resulting in increased productivity per acre. Additional investments include water efficiency and effectiveness programs. Some are planting varieties in addition to the popular Hass. The Commission has invested in production research for decades and will continue to do so to help California avocado growers maximize productivity and sustainability.
For more information:
Jan DeLyser
California Avocado Commission
Tel: (+1) 949-341-1955