Not a normal season, but are they ever?

As we finish up January, we thought we would provide a look at our season so far.  From a rainy December to the driest January in history, the weather always keeps us guessing.  Our current snowpack is normal, but if we do not get more rainfall, we could be facing another drought year.  We went all through last year with very little water from our dams and if those dams are not replenished by rain, and more importantly snow, this could be a very tough growing season ahead.

We are half way through our cold season when we have to be cautious of cold weather, but thus far, we have only had very minor cold nights where we are only having to protect our lemons and mandarins as they freeze easier than oranges.  The cold weather is actually very good for all tree crops, as it helps set better crops and keeps the fruit in good condition, and this has been the case so far this season.

The crop on mandarins and oranges is off by about 50% and 25% respectively.  Lemons are over last year with about 15% more fruit.  This lighter crop and a new packinghouse on line this year has greatly eased the stress levels from last year.  Our new packing facility in Reedley has come on line better than any of us could have imagined.  This house was designed for export fruit where gentle treatment and high brix detection are necessary and it is doing both very well.  If you missed the video, check the past blogs for an updated video of oranges running across the line.

Our employees are surviving the pandemic and we are seeing fewer sick days due to covid by far compared to last season.  It is starting to feel closer to normal.  Take care and remember to eat an orange a day to help keep covid away.