MAITLAND, Fla. — According to the National Agricultural Statistics Service in Florida, there were 6.6 days suitable for fieldwork for the week ending Sunday, February 16, 2020. Precipitation estimates ranged from no rain in multiple locations to 3.2 inches in Boca Raton (Palm Beach County). The average mean temperature ranged from 59.4°F in Niceville (Okaloosa County) to 78.9°F in West Palm Beach (Palm Beach County).
Citrus
Maximum temperatures in the citrus growing region ranged from the mid to upper 80s. The highest maximum reading was in Sebring (Highlands County), at 89°F. The greatest rainfall was in Port St. Lucie (St. Lucie County), at 0.8 inches. According to the February 13, 2020, U.S. Drought Monitor, abnormally dry conditions lessened in
the western citrus growing area and continued in parts of the central area. The remaining portion of the citrus growing region was drought free.
Early and midseason oranges were winding down for the season. At least one processing plant began receiving Valencia packinghouse eliminations.
Grove operations included fertilizing, hedging, and applying herbicide. Caretakers were mowing groves before harvest. Ditches and reservoirs were low. Irrigation was run steadily across the citrus region. Field staff reported seeing color break on late variety oranges, increasing signs of early bloom, and new growth on the trees.
Fruits and Vegetables
Strawberry harvesting and good yields were reported in the northern and central peninsula. Unseasonably warm temperatures and foggy conditions were conducive to
disease development in vegetable crops. Growers throughout the southern peninsula were wrapping up spring vegetable planting.
Livestock and Pastures
Cattle remained in mostly good condition throughout the state. Some cattle herds were thinning out. Supplemental feeding was reported in multiple counties where pastures remained dry.
Field Crops
Sugarcane harvest continued.
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–USDA, NASS