MAITLAND, Fla. — According to the National Agricultural Statistics Service in Florida, there were 6.0 days suitable for fieldwork for the week ending Sunday, December 29, 2019. Precipitation estimates ranged from trace amounts of rain in multiple locations to 9.4 inches in Hollywood (Broward County). The average mean temperature ranged from 61.0°F in Chipley (Washington County) to 74.9°F in Key West (Monroe County).
Citrus
Maximum temperatures in the citrus growing region ranged from the upper 70s to mid 80s. The highest maximum reading was in Sebring (Highlands County), at 83°F. The greatest rainfall was in Brooksville (Hernando County), at 2.82 inches. According to the December 26, 2019, U.S. Drought Monitor, parts of Collier, Glades, and Hendry counties were showing abnormally dry conditions. The remaining portion of the citrus growing region was drought free.
White and red grapefruit, early and midseason oranges, Navels, early tangerines, and Tangelos were being harvested for the fresh market.
Processing plants were open and ran early and mid-season oranges as well as red and white grapefruit. According to the Florida Citrus Mutual Market News Bulletin, most plants will be closed December 31 and January 1 and will start receiving fruit on January 2.
Other grove activities included mowing, spraying, fertilizing, and general grove maintenance.
Fruits and Vegetables
A wide range of fruits and vegetables were planted while others were harvested and brought to market. Crops planted and harvested included green beans, yellow squash, zucchini, tomatoes, peppers, bitter melon, and Asian vegetables.
Livestock and Pastures
Some cattlemen were grazing winter forage in Santa Rosa County. Pastures in other parts of the state still had standing water from excess rainfall. Cattle were looking good throughout the state.
Field Crops
Planting of late cover crops continued and sugarcane harvest progressed.
–USDA, NASS