MAITLAND, Fla. — According to the National Agricultural Statistics Service in Florida, there were 6.4 days suitable for fieldwork for the week ending Sunday, October 13, 2019. Precipitation estimates ranged from no rain in multiple locationsto 9.04 inches in Daytona Beach (Volusia County). The average mean temperature ranged from 73.0°F in Lake City (Columbia County) to 82.6°F in Naples (Collier County).
Citrus
Temperatures were average for this time of year in the citrus growing region. Daily highs reached the mid to high 80s on most days, with an occasional reading in the 90s. Rainfall early in the week was scattered and light across citrus growing counties. A couple of stations received as much as four inches of rainfall over a four day span, but most stations received less than two inches during the period. The greatest rainfall was in Polk City (Polk County) at 4.39 inches. According to the October 10, 2019, U.S. Drought Monitor, drought conditions have stabilized in the citrus growing region. Parts of Citrus, Marion, and all of Putnam County remain abnormally dry. The rest of the citrus growing region is drought free. The citrus crop continued progressing well. The fruit per tree survey showed the fruit set is less than average; however, early size indications showed that the fruit is expected to be larger at harvest than last season on both oranges and grapefruit. According to the Florida Department of Fruit and Vegetables, limited amounts of
early oranges (Hamlins), Navels, red grapefruit, and Fallglo tangerines were being harvested. Grove activities included mowing, applying herbicides, fertilizing, and general grove maintenance. Irrigation was run several times throughout the week in most areas.
Fruits and Vegetables
A variety of fruits and vegetables continued to be planted while others were harvested and brought to market. Producers in Bradford County reported signs of whitefly pressures in cabbage and collards. Vegetable growers continued land preparation, laying plastic, and planting fall crops.
Livestock and Pastures
Pasture conditions continued the seasonal decline throughout much of the state. Some pasture conditions improved in the southern peninsula and near the Atlantic coast after receiving some beneficial rainfall. Winter grazing plantings were delayed in Gadsden County due to the drought conditions. Cattle and pasture conditions remained mostly good throughout the state.
Field Crops
Spotty rain showers were received in several counties throughout the Panhandle, but not enough to relieve drought conditions. Cotton conditions improved some due to the small amounts of rainfall. Peanut harvesting activities slowed in Gadsden County. Hay cutting continued in Dixie County. Sugarcane harvesting began and growers were adjusting to new burn permit requirements.
To view the complete report please click here!
–USDA, NASS