Although the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service stated last week that orange growers would only bring 70 million boxes to market from the original industry prediction of 72 million boxes, Florida Valencia orange estimates from January to February held steady at 35 million boxes. “Right now we’re in the middle of our Valencia orange season,” said Al Finch, president of Florida Classic Growers. “We started harvesting our Valencias in mid – January. We’ll have Valencia oranges off the tree through the month of May and then we’ll start our storage program. Valencia Oranges will be available through June.” The quality has been excellent so far this season and peaking on 100s and 80ct sizes. “The flavor profile is awesome.”
Expansion of blueberry program
Winter has been mild in Florida with just a few cool days but no freezing temperatures, Finch said. “Overall, this year weather has cooperated much better than last year. We’re very excited to announce that we will be expanding our Florida blueberry program big time this season." Florida Blueberries should be reaching good volume the week of March 27. During the month of April, they'll have load volume available on 6oz, dry pints and 18oz clamshells.
Good window for Florida peaches
“We’re also continuing to expand our Florida peach program as well. Our peaches are ready-to-eat right off the tree unlike other peaches. We’re excited about this year’s crop.” Peaches will reach promotional volume starting the first week in April. Florida’s peaches start as Chile finishes their program and before California, Georgia and South Carolina start production.
The Florida “ready to eat” peach fills the market void for the month of April when there’s no other peaches available. These peaches are not just tree –ripened but ready for consumption the minute they're picked off the tree.
For more information:
Al Finch
Florida Classic Growers
Tel:: 863.438.2209