Predicted 14% drop in volume for oranges in California

Based on the results of a survey closed on September 1, the initial forecast for Navel orange production in California indicates a volume drop of 14% from the previous year.

 

The USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service in its initial 2021-22 forecast for California Navel orange indicates production of 70.0 million cartons (40 lbs = 18.14 kg). That is a decrease in volume of 14% compared to the previous year. In the Central Valley region, production is expected to reach 67.0 million cartons (40 lbs = 18.14 kg).

 

The survey data also indicate a fruit set of 239 fruits per tree, a variation of -25% compared to the previous year and a variation of -30% compared to the five-year average of 344 fruits per tree. As of September 1, the average fruit diameter was 2.145 inches (5.448 cm), lower than the five-year average of 2.208 inches (5.608 cm).

 

This forecast for 2021-22 is based on the results of the 'Navel Orange Objective Measurement (OM)' survey which was carried out from June 15 to September 1, 2021. The survey was carried out in 707 orange groves where 2 trees were selected at random. Of the 707 orange groves used for the survey, 10 were in Madera County, 119 in Fresno County, 419 in Tulare County and 157 in Kern County.

 

 

 

source : californiaagnet.com