California is currently at the peak of its nectarine and peach seasons. After a moderately delayed start, volume is looking close to the average with favorable weather conditions helping growers. This is expected to continue through to the end of the season in Fall.
"We began harvesting in Mid-May and expect to conclude in late October with our Prima® Gattie peach," said George Papangellin of Gerawan Farming. "Timing-wise, the season started six to seven days later than last year. We have experienced normal yields thus far and do not expect anything different while going through our peak and until the end. Our typical summer heat is upon us, with expectations of change to come in a couple weeks."
Numerous varieties
Being the peak of the season on a number of stone fruits, Gerawan Farming is busy harvesting several varieties as they transition from one to another. The market has also been quite active, with prices the highest on plum and nectarines in particular.
"We are harvesting our flagship yellow nectarine Prima® Diamond 19, Prima® Peach 20, yellow peach, Friar plum, and white peaches and nectarines," Papangellin said. "Commencing shortly will be our Prima® Diamond 24 nectarine and Prima® Peach 23 and 27, followed by our highly in-demand flagship Prima® Gattie peach, with all three rounding out our late season Prima® peach program."
"The market is good, particularly for plums and nectarines," he added. "The peach market has strong demand with aggressive promotion pricing in place."
Local community connections at Fresno Food Expo
With the Fresno Food Expo having just finished, participants are reflecting on what they enjoy about the event. For Gerawan Farming, getting in touch with the local community and fellow growers is one of the highlights of the show. And although there is certainly a local focus, the company also noted the international buyers that attend the event, ensuring a win-win on both fronts.
"We find the Fresno Food Expo the perfect opportunity to introduce our company and products to both our local community, in which we live and work, and also employ so many, while also meeting buyers from all over the globe who are expressing interest in high quality fresh produce," Papangellin shared.
"At this year's show, we presented our Prima® Peach 20 and Prima® Diamond 19 nectarines," he continued. "As one of the county’s largest private employers and the country’s largest stone fruit grower-shipper, it’s great to have a venue such as the Fresno Food Expo to showcase our products and speak with our neighbors."
For more information:
George Papangellin
Gerawan Farming
Tel: +1 (559) 787-8771