Orange growers in California are enjoying an excellent season, with generally good growing conditions resulting in an excellent crop. Quality has been high and sizing has also been good. Volumes are a little down from last year, which was a higher than average crop.
"This season has been great," said Derek Vaughn of Johnston Farms. "We have had no bad weather for the majority of the season. Across the state, this year's crop is lighter, but our volume at Johnston Farms has been closer to the average. We are looking to finish in April, however we typically finish earlier than other growers as we transition to other crops."
"Sizing has also been excellent," he continued. "There has been a good amount from 56s down to 113s and we have seen a nice uniform spread across all sizes."
Demand still good
During the early part of the season and into the new year, demand for oranges was very strong. While it has since somewhat cooled off, growers are still expecting a strong finish to the season and for prices to remain elevated.
"Demand has been outstanding all season long," Vaughn said. "After Chinese New Year, we saw it dip slightly, but we're still seeing the highest prices of the season. The market has been higher across the board, with prices $6.00 per carton higher than last year, although last year did see high volumes. We expect the season to finish strongly and with rain expected this week, it will keep supplies tight."
Exports to Australia and East Asia
Exports too are seeing a favorable year, with demand for California fruit particularly good in Australia and East Asia. "Domestically, we have the Washington variety, of which we still have good availability," Vaughn noted. "We are also having a great season on the Autumn Gold, which is our export orange. Australia saw good numbers despite having its ups and downs as they sort out their preclearance program. Demand was good in the remainder of the markets, especially so in Japan and Korea. Overall, it's been an excellent season for growers."
For more information:
Derek Vaughn
Johnston Farms
Tel: +1 (661) 366-3201