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California crop update

Jun 6, 2007 10:47 AM

With warmer weather, drying conditions for hay have been excellent in Califonria, according to the USDA/NASS Califonria Field office.

Barley, oats and wheat have been growing well with many fields headed out. Early planted corn was also showing good progress. The harvests of small grains for silage have increased with the warmer than normal conditions. Slight lodging in small grains was seen in some areas due to strong winds. Wheat fields were irrigated or fertilized.

Cotton fields were cultivated and treatments were applied to control insects and weeds. Many rice fields were emerging. A few safflower fields were in the full flower stage in Fresno County.

Fruit Crops

Grape shoot and leaf thinning continued. Various varieties were still blooming. Grape vineyards were fertilized, irrigated and sprayed to control weeds, diseases and insects. Apple and pear trees were still being thinned. Apples were sprayed for worms. Stone fruit orchard activities included irrigation, fertilization and the application of herbicides. Harvests of Poppy, Early Cot, Castlebrite, Katy, Primacot, Judy’s Delight and Red Velvet apricots continued. Cherry harvest also continued with Rainier and Tulare varieties being packed. Crimson Lady, Early Saturn, Saturn, Spring Snow, May Sweet, Queencrest, Snow Angel, Spring Flame, Sugar Time and Super Rich peach and Early Glo, Mayfire, Spring Flare, Red Jewel and Zee Fire nectarine harvests were underway. Harvest of Flavorosa pluots began. Harvests of Red Beaut and Black Ice plums progressed. Pomegranates continued to bloom and form fruit. Strawberry and blueberry harvests were ongoing. Harvests of lemons and Navel oranges continued at a slow pace. Valencia harvest was picking up speed, though fruit maturity remained a problem for some growers. Some growers were treating to control fungus and weeds and applying nutrients. Some olive trees were still blooming and others continued to form fruit.

Vegetable Crops

Conducive weather conditions have promoted positive growth patterns for many vegetables. Planting of peppers, okra, eggplant, string beans and tomatoes continued in Tulare County and crookneck and zucchini squash were being picked. Planting of processing tomato, cantaloupe, and honeydew continued in Merced County. Harvests of asparagus, bok choy, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, cilantro, daikon, dandelion and mustard greens, garlic, green onions, kale, leaf and head lettuce, leeks, parsley, parsnips, rutabaga and spinach were ongoing in Fresno County. Packing and shipping of radicchio was winding down.

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