Growers are citing last year's weather as a reason for lower citrus volume in Texas. The combined effects of a freeze and decreased rainfall are cited as factors. This, along with good demand, has resulted in strong prices for remaining fruit.
Last year's freeze affected citrus, says Ruben Shives of the Edinburg Citrus Association.
“It affected the bloom, so we were short,” he adds.
As a result, their navel orange season finished early, and they were down about 50% from the previous year.
With a short crop, prices have been strong with oranges reported at $13-$15 per carton.
Prices for grapefruit were reported in the $15 range for sizes 23 through 27, $10-$11 for size 36's, $9-$9.50 for size 48's and $8-$9 for smaller sizes.
Most growers finished navel crops around December with Valencias expected in mid-February.