US: Organic citrus program enters peak season
Rucker Homestead began packing lemons four weeks ago. Grapefruit was packed this week. The first crop of Minneola will be harvested in about ten days. Buyers can expect to begin loading right after Christmas into March with pricing comparable to last year.
“We have a great quality crop this year - - especially the Minneola’s - - nice size and fruit set,” said Odilon Anguiano, Organic Sales Manager for Sutherland Produce. “Promotional opportunities are welcomed now through January,” he added.
Because the Rucker Homestead farm is located in Southern California’s Coachella Valley, much of the drought conditions that have impacted farming in California’s Central Valley have had little effect on Rucker, which relies on the Colorado River for its main source of water. “Ideal growing conditions, consistent water supply, proper pruning and a focus on soil fertility has contributed to a Minneola crop that’s about 3X the fruit over last year,” said Bruce Rucker. “The colder nights forecast for next week will further develop the sugar content and color of our featured Minneola crop. Overall, we think buyers and their customers will be very pleased with this year’s citrus crop,” he concluded.
For more information:
Chris Ford
Sutherland Produce
Tel: +1 831.917.7321
Fax: +1 831.298.7017
Email: press@sutherlandproduce.com
www.sutherlandproduce.com