Early estimates for the 2024-2025 citrus crop indicate that the California navel crop will reach 78.0 million cartons (up two percent from the previous year) while the mandarin crop will see an estimated 8 million carton increase over last year, according to the California Navel Orange measurement report as well as the Mandarin measurement report.
"It is nice to see that they are projecting a nice uptick this season for oranges," says Tony Marquez from Pearson Ranch in Porterville, California. "From what I see in the field, the numbers seem appropriate."
While the California citrus growing season has had its challenges this year–including a very long, hot summer with many days in the 100 degrees Fahrenheit–which in turn has meant increased irrigation for citrus trees, Marquez is optimistic.
Marquez says all in all, things look much better for the upcoming citrus season.
2023-2024 and thrips
"The most notable thing about this orange growing season is the fact that we have had a much better season in regards to citrus thrips damage," he says. Last year of course thrips caused numerous problems for growers in the citrus growing region including damage (namely, scarring of fruit) which led to lower returns to growers due to what is seen as a purely cosmetic issue around the appearance of oranges.
"In some cases, growers had to sell their fruit for juice which brings in less money than the fresh fruit market," adds Marquez.
Thrips also means more time and resources were allocated to treat the groves for the insects. "Damage was severe enough that many growers had to file insurance claims," says Marquez. "So all in all, things look much better for the upcoming citrus season. As long as the weather cooperates and there are no unforeseen issues, we are hoping for a good year."
For more information:
Tony Marquez
Pearson Ranch
Tel: 1-888-667-2643
[email protected]
https://www.pearsonranch.com/