Harold Stewart, owner of Stewart Avocado Farms in Fallbrook, has expressed concern over the state of his avocado crop. The farm, which houses approximately 2,000 avocado trees, has seen a significant decrease in fruit production this year, which Stewart attributes to recent cold weather conditions.
Stewart's farm typically yields between 250,000 to 400,000 pounds of avocados annually. However, this year's production has dwindled to a mere 10,000 pounds. Despite the drastic drop in production, the farm's operational costs remain the same, putting a strain on Stewart's business.
Stewart believes that weather plays a significant role in the profitability and sustainability of his farm. The frost advisory in effect over the past few mornings, with temperatures nearing freezing levels, has been a significant contributor to the poor crop yield.
The influx of imported avocados is another challenge for Stewart. These imports flood the market at a time when local farmers like Stewart should be selling their produce, further impacting their bottom line.
San Luis Obispo County farmers worried about freeze warning
Elsewhere in California, San Luis Obispo County received a freeze warning from the National Weather Service. Temperatures in some inland areas might be dropping below 30 degrees. This has led local farmers to take necessary precautions, as frost and freeze conditions could potentially devastate crops and other delicate vegetation.
At City Farm SLO, the planting schedule is strategically designed around the seasons. Crops like tomatoes, zucchinis, and cucumbers are only planted in the spring to avoid the winter frost. "Once a plant is killed by frost, it's the end of that plant for the season. We then replant in late winter," said Lovell.
In addition to carefully timing their planting schedules, farmers employ other protective measures such as using insulated greenhouses and covering plants with blankets at night. "Sometimes mother nature plays tricks with you, but you've got to weather the storm," Meisler commented.
Source: nbcsandiego.com