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 19, 2020. Precipitation estimates ranged from no rain in multiple locations to 4.86 inches in Gonzalez (Escambia County). The average mean temperature ranged from 64.0°F in Jasper (Hamilton County) to 77.0°F in Key West (Monroe County).
Citrus
Temperatures were warmer than normal this week, with maximum temperatures reaching the low to upper 80s. The highest maximum reading was in Bartow (Polk County), at 86°F. The greatest rainfall was in Lakeland (Polk County), at 1.06 inches, followed by Vero Beach (Indian River County), at 0.65 inches. According to the January 16, 2020, U.S. Drought Monitor, parts of Hendry and Collier counties experienced abnormally dry conditions. The remaining portion of the citrus growing region was drought free.
Packinghouses were packing several midseason tangerine varieties, most notably Tango, Orri, and Juicy Crunch tangerines. A few started moving Minneola tangelos and Honey tangerines (Murcotts). Processing plants were taking field run fruit and packinghouse eliminations. NonValencia harvest was in full swing. Weekly early and midseason orange harvest surpassed three million boxes for the first time this season.
Other grove activities included limited mowing before harvest, spraying, irrigation, and fertilization.
Fruits and Vegetables
Growers in Manatee County laid plastic and plan to put in tomatoes soon. Preparations are being made for multiple crops in anticipation of more cold weather.
Livestock and Pastures
The cooler weather helped to improve cattle health and condition. Cattle remained in mostly good to excellent condition throughout the state.
Field Crops
Sugarcane harvest continued.
To view the complete report please click here!
–USDA, NASS