PRO*ACT Crop Update: Strawberry production a concern
A series of cold low-pressure systems is once again set to move through California, northern Mexico and southwestern Arizona this week. These systems will bring rain, strong winds and cooler temperatures to these regions into early next week. Central and Southern California will take the brunt of these systems with less rain expected across the desert regions. This may hinder some harvests in the region with muddy conditions depending on how much rain is received. Mildew pressure will be on the rise with insect populations remaining problematic as the season winds down.
Of most concern is the strawberry production in Santa Maria, Oxnard and Northern Baja as these regions are forecast to receive strong winds and moderate rainfall with lighter rain expected across Northern Baja. Following the rains, growers will once again cull and strip damaged fruit to induce growth and help the plants recover. Citrus and avocado harvests in California will likely be delayed by a few days as these systems roll through.
The upcoming transition supplies across Central and Southern California will receive cold temperatures and substantial precipitation with these systems. The precipitation will likely increase mold, mildew and disease pressure in these upcoming stands. Personnel are currently evaluating the fields in between recent storm systems. These stands have seen generally good growing conditions since seeding. The current weather pattern of cooler temperatures and rain may impact transition schedules currently set for late March into early April.
As always, upcoming weather patterns will play a crucial role with supplies and quality moving forward. At this point we will have to wait and see how these fields come through these storms.
With over 30 years in the produce industry, Tim Lynch started as an inspector and advanced into quality control and food safety. Beyond work, he's an avid sports fan, relishing in activities like boating, fishing, and diving. Originally from Hollywood, California, Tim attended Cal Poly SLO before making Marina his home since 1994.
