Latest California crop update from NASS
Jan 26, 2009 10:03 AM
Here’s the latest California crop update from the National Agricultural Statistics Service based in Sacramento released on Jan. 20.
Field crops
Field work continued with ground preparation, cultivation, irrigation, and weed control in alfalfa, barley, oat, rye, and wheat fields. Winter wheat and grains were being planted in Tulare County. Early plantings were progressing well from the recent wet weather. Cotton plow down was virtually complete.
Rice growers continued to reshape berms and level paddies. Rice fields were being cultivated, bedded, fertilized, and irrigated to prepare for spring planting.
Specialty potatoes were harvested; planting of spring potatoes will begin soon.
Fruit crops
Vineyard spraying, pruning, and tying took place as well as cane shredding and removal of old vines. Raspberry and strawberry nursery stock digging and trimming continues.
Orchard pruning and herbicide spraying occurred in stone fruit orchards.
Harvest of citrus fruits slowed in some areas due to inclement weather. Colder temperatures were beneficial for citrus fruit to obtain its natural color and increase shelf life. Citrus harvest included Clementines, navel oranges, tangerines, lemons, and Melo Gold, Oro Blanco, and Cocktail grapefruit.
Nut crops
Pruning and spraying took place in almond, walnut, and pistachio orchards. Pre-plant fumigation was underway for new almond and walnut orchards.
Vegetable crops
Field work for winter crops slowed due to wet weather. Radicchio, carrot, cauliflower, cilantro, and endive harvests continued. Leafy vegetables were harvested. Asparagus fields were finished for spring.
Groundwork continued including field weeding, irrigation, fertilization, and treatments for weeds, insects, and mildew.
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