MAITLAND, Fla. — According to the National Agricultural Statistics Service in Florida, there were 6.5 days suitable for fieldwork for the week ending Sunday, March 1, 2020. Precipitation estimates ranged from no rain in multiple areas to 3.72 inches in Hosford (Liberty County). The average mean temperature ranged from 50.7°F in Niceville (Okaloosa County) to 71.6°F in Key West (Monroe County).
Citrus
Maximum temperatures in the citrus growing region ranged from the low to upper 80s. The highest maximum reading was in Fort Pierce (St. Lucie County), at 88°F.
Rainfall amounts were mostly between a quarter of an inch to an inch across the citrus region. A few stations in the northern citrus region received more than an inch of precipitation. According to the February 27, 2020, U.S. Drought Monitor, abnormally dry conditions exist in much of the northern and western citrus regions. In the central area, only Polk County is showing abnormally dry condition. The southern area and Indian River district remain drought free.
Early and midseason orange harvest is about over for the season. Valencia harvested is ramping up quickly this season. Processing plants are now taking the later variety
oranges as packinghouse eliminations and field run. On the fresh side, early variety tangerines are slowing down. There are still Honey (Murcott) tangerines and Royal
tangerines to be harvested. Red grapefruit and Valencia oranges are also being harvested for fresh.
Grove operations included mowing, fertilizing, hedging, and minimal spraying. Irrigation was run several times per week in most areas. Groves that are being taken care of look good. Most trees are beginning to bloom. Some are already showing small fruitlets on the trees.
Fruits and Vegetables
Strawberry harvesting continued throughout the state. Multiple varieties of vegetables were being planted and harvested in the southern part of the state. Tomatoes and
potatoes had some pest pressure but were in good condition.
Livestock and Pastures
Cattle remained in mostly good condition throughout the state. Winter grazing was reported in good to excellent condition due to adequate rainfall.
Field Crops
Sugarcane harvest continued.
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–USDA, NASS