MAITLAND, Fla. — According to the National Agricultural Statistics Service in Florida, there were 6.5 days suitable for fieldwork for the week ending Sunday, November 17, 2019. Precipitation estimates ranged from trace amounts to 5.85 inches in White Springs (Columbia County). The average mean temperature ranged from 46.4°F in Whiting Field NAS (Santa Rosa County) to 77.9°F in Curry Hammock State Park (Monroe County).
Citrus
Maximum temperatures in the citrus growing region ranged from the low to high 80s. The highest maximum reading was in Palm Dale (Glades County), which reached
88°F. The greatest rainfall was in Fort Pierce (Saint Lucie County) at 1.12 inches, followed by Vero Beach (Indian River County) at 0.89 inches. According to the November
14, 2019, U.S. Drought Monitor, abnormally dry conditions expanded in the citrus region, entering portions of Orange County. Abnormally dry conditions also expanded to most of the western, southern, central, and Indian River District growing areas.
This citrus crop continued progressing well. According to the Florida Department of Fruit and Vegetables, white grapefruit, red grapefruit, early oranges, Navels, Fallglo,
and Early Pride tangerines were harvested. Grove activities included mowing, applying herbicides under the trees, and general grove maintenance. Irrigation was run in all parts of the citrus growing region. There were two processing plants that were processing packinghouse eliminations for oranges and grapefruit.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fall vegetable harvesting increased significantly for the Thanksgiving holiday, with a wide range of vegetables coming to market. Fall vegetable harvesting was delayed
in Volusia County due to the need for producers to replant some fields. Strawberry plant maturity continued progressing in Bradford County. Some whitefly and worm
pressures were observed, but under control, in Manatee County. Frost cover was needed on some cool season crops in Suwannee County. Vegetable growers continued
planting winter crops.
Livestock and Pastures
Moisture conditions were ideal in Santa Rosa County for producers who were putting in winter grazing. Cool season forages have been planted in many counties throughout the state. Hay was cut in Jackson County before the cold weather hit.
Field Crops
Peanut harvesting was completed in Jackson County. Sugarcane planting and harvesting continued as well.
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–USDA, NASS