California's avocado harvest is in full swing, and the state is expecting a bumper crop this year. Harvest kicked off in the San Diego region in the south and last week, it started in the largest growing region, Ventura County. The state is about three weeks away from picking the first avocados in the San Luis Obispo area. "We are expecting a total volume between 320 and 350 million pounds," says Hayden McIntyre, President of Sierra Pacific Farms farm manager for a number of avocado growers in the state.
While Ventura County's volume is expected to be 20 to 25 percent down from last year, both San Diego in the south and the northern San Luis Obispo district are expecting large crops. "The second largest growing region, San Diego, is expected to be up 30 percent from last year and the San Luis Obispo area also has a very big fruit set."
This year, the quality is by far outpacing last year's when part of the crop was impacted by thrip damage. "High winds have caused some damage this growing season but overall, the conditions have been very good. When looking at the packouts, the quality seems to be way better this season," McIntyre commented.
© Sierra Pacific Farms
Pricing is strong and above normal for the beginning of the season. "The average price for all sizes is $1.75 while $1.25 - $1.30 would be considered normal for this time of year." Demand is strong due to lower supply from Mexico. Last week, harvest in Mexico slowed down due to Benito Juarez Day, a national holiday in the country. In addition, potential tariffs that are scheduled to begin April 2 are creating uncertainty. California's avocado supply helps fill the void from Mexico.
Availability of California avocados will continue through summer. Nevertheless, the trees are already blooming for next year's crop. "It's a pretty amazing bloom as we speak," McIntyre concluded.
For more information:
Hayden McIntyre
Sierra Pacific Farms
Tel: (+1) 951-699-9980
hayden@spfarms.com
www.spfarminc.com