MAITLAND, Fla. — According to the National Agricultural Statistics Service in Florida, there were 6.7 days suitable for fieldwork for the week ending Sunday, January 12, 2020. Precipitation estimates ranged from no rain in multiple locations to 1.38 inches in Monticello (Jefferson County). The average mean temperature ranged from 54.4°F in Tallahassee (Leon County) to 73.9°F in Key West (Monroe County).
Citrus
Maximum temperatures were in the low to upper 80s, with most locations reporting 5°F to 10°F above normal. The highest maximum reading was in Palmdale (Glades County), which reached 87°F. The citrus growing region received very little rainfall, with the greatest amount in Vero Beach (Indian River County), at 0.31 inches. According to the January 9, 2020, U.S. Drought Monitor, parts of Hendry and Collier counties were showing abnormally dry conditions. The remaining portion of the citrus growing region was drought free.
According to the Florida Citrus Mutual Market Bulletin, processing plants were taking field run fruit, and at least one plant continued processing orange and mandarin packinghouse eliminations. Several packinghouses started moving on from processing Hamlins and were beginning to process Pineapple oranges. At least one house started packing Honey tangerines.
Other grove activities included mowing, spraying, irrigation, and general grove maintenance.
Fruits and Vegetables
A wide range of fruits and vegetables were planted while others were harvested and brought to market. Vegetable growers continued planting watermelons, among other spring crops. Producers in Flagler and Putnam counties reported dealing with prevalent broccoli black rot issues. Growers in Manatee County reported crown rot on strawberries. Strawberry harvesting continued in Hillsborough County.
Livestock and Pastures
Several newborn calves were reported in Polk County. Some declines in cattle conditions were reported in Suwannee County, due to poor winter pastures. Cattle remained in mostly good condition throughout the state.
Field Crops
Cover crops planting was reported in Dixie County. Some oats began to head out in Levy County. Sugarcane harvest continued.
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–USDA, NASS