Europe Edition
Citrus growers in Texas have recovered from recent wet weather and production has returned to normal again. Production had slowed as growers were having difficulty accessing their crops due to the muddy and wet conditions. The recent cold temperatures had also contributed to that interruption. Growers also mentioned that the cold was not severe enough to cause any damage.
"The rain and cold weather did create some delays with harvest and slowed down planting a bit, however the cold snap was not severe enough to create any serious damage to the crop," said Bret Erickson, of J&D Produce. "Some of the younger tender plants may see a little tip burn, but the more mature items will actually get heartier due to the cold weather."
Citrus growers not "holding back production"
Despite recent reports suggesting Texas citrus growers were deliberately holding back production, growers said that this was not the case, and that the fruit is being picked as it is ready. The only affect the rains had was to create a delay stemming from the difficulty of accessing crops, as mentioned.
A spokesperson at Crockett Farms, a citrus grower in Harlingen, said that production is continuing as normal. "After the rain caused a delay, we are back in full production," she said. "We are harvesting and packing the fruit as it becomes ready."
"Harvesters have been delayed by the rain," said Michael Harris, of Lone Star Citrus Growers. "However, it's business as usual now and our citrus production is back on track."
Reduced Florida production tightens market
The most prominent affect on the grapefruit market in the United States is the continued impact on Florida production. With citrus growers still recovering in that state, Texas growers are seeing a moderate rise in prices.
"It's a case of supply and demand," Harris said. "There has been a decrease in supply due to the situation in Florida and this has had an effect on prices. It has not been huge, but supply has been tight, and that is what we're seeing reflected in the market."
For more information:
Bret Erickson
J&D Produce
Tel: +1 (956) 380-0353
Michael Harris
Lone Star Citrus Growers
Tel: +1 (956) 424-7775
