October is here and amid all that is pumpkin spice, ghosts, and goblins is the start of citrus season in Florida. According to USDA’s initial outlook, the haul for industry stakeholders during the 2021-2022 campaign might be more trick than treat.
The National Agricultural Statistics Service is projecting the state’s all-orange production at 47 million boxes (19 million early, mid varieties plus 28 million Valencia). The estimate is 11% down from last season’s total.
No doubt, Florida citrus production has had a difficult time stabilizing itself since the onset of HLB more than 15 years ago. Notable weather events like Hurricane Irma have further compounded issues in recent times.
USDA’s report included several takeaways on weather and crop progress:
- The citrus growing region experienced average temperatures and dry weather leading to the bloom period at the end of February. Following a few weeks of minimal rainfall, the citrus region declined into abnormally dry conditions
- Rain in late April seemed suboptimal nourishment for the new crop being set. Other than in a few isolated areas, dryness set in for several more weeks.
- Fruit set on oranges appeared to be less than most seasons. Fruit sizes in the early stages were consistent, yet small, with some late bloom reported.
Despite the downward trending numbers, Shannon Shepp, Executive Director of the Florida Department of Citrus, is still looking at the report as glass half full. “We hoped for more, but 47 million boxes of oranges demonstrate the resilience, ingenuity, and strength of Florida’s citrus growers and their unwavering commitment to fighting the challenges facing our industry,” she says. “Demand for Florida orange juice remains strong. Further, growers and researchers continue to develop new tools in the fight against HLB.”
Florida Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried also recognizes the efforts needed to continue cultivating the state’s signature crop. “We remain committed to supporting our citrus producers with research, technology, and techniques to fight the spread of citrus greening.”
As far as the grapefruit crops goes, the government agency’s forecast is 3.8 million boxes, down 7% from last season’s 4.10 million box output.
The citrus season in Florida runs through July. The next scheduled crop estimate update is scheduled for Dec. 9.