PRO*ACT Crop Update: California cherry crop down, Washington up
PRO*ACT Crop Update: California cherry crop down, Washington up
The California cherry crop estimate has been lowered to approximately 4.6 million cartons, down from the 7-8 million projection earlier in the season. Rain during the bloom has caused extensive damage to the fruit, lowering yields. The lighter crop will support demand until the Washington cherry crop begins in early June.
The Washington crop estimate came in at approximately 21-22 million cartons, up 2 million from last year’s harvest. Growers report an even bloom and excellent growing conditions across the various growing regions. This will translate into good supplies and quality with production into early August. With lighter production in California there looks to be little overlap in supplies as Washington begins volume production around mid-June.
Domestic melon production has begun in the Southwestern desert regions as the offshore season comes to an end with questionable quality. Mexican supplies are light as production transitions to the north. Domestic production will increase weekly as the weather warms with stable volumes expected by June. Sizing is primarily 9s and 12s with no jumbos on this early fruit with Brix reported in 12-13 percent range. Production from the main Westside growing region of the San Juaquin Valley is slated to begin in early July.
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.
