Markon Cooperative BB #:123315 released this citrus crop update February 23, 2023:
Forecasts call for rain in California’s citrus growing regions over the next seven days. Growers have been harvesting in front of these storms to keep supplies elevated as production will be limited during this weather event. Markets are expected to rise next week. Advanced ordering is recommended for orange coverage going into next week (2/27-3/4).
Lemons
- Markon First Crop (MFC) and Essentials (ESS) Lemons are available
- Production continues in the San Joaquin Valley and Southern California
- Rain will slow production in the Central Valley; expect adequate supplies out of Southern California
- Markets are expected to climb into next week due to increased demand for Lenten season
- Quality remains excellent
California Oranges
- MFC and ESS Navel Oranges are available
- Rain in California will limit crews’ ability to harvest for the next seven days; orchards need at least two days without rain to harvest
- Growers have picked ahead of the rain for orders this week; those supplies will diminish by week’s end
- Demand is expected to exceed supply next week; advanced ordering is recommended
- Current quality is excellent; sugar levels are high
Texas Oranges
- Domestic Valencias are available
- 72-count and smaller supplies are steady
- Quality is average with light orange color and some blemishes
- Mexican Valenicas are crossing into South Texas
- Supplies are abundant; mostly small sizes are available
- Good brix levels with light color and minimal blemishes are being reported
Florida Oranges
- Domestic Valencias available
- Expect light supplies this week due to grove transitions
- Quality is good; pale appearance is being reported
Limes
Supplies continue to further tighten causing prices to jump. Markon First Crop (MFC) and Markon Essentials (ESS) Limes are limited; packer label is being substituted as needed.
- Cold winter weather and rain continue to tighten stocks in Veracruz, Mexico
- New crop volume is ramping up but overall yields will remain limited, which is common this time of year
- Improved quality of new crop fruit is reducing availability of choice-grade limes
- Supplies are dominated by 200- to 250-count size No 1.-grade limes
- The market is poised to keep rising into March; increased lead time is recommended to ensure order fulfillment
