As Hurricane Ian went across Florida, it destroyed an estimated 4 million acres of farmland in several counties, according to Florida’s Department of Agriculture. It trampled fields of vegetables, fruits, tropicals, and of course, the state’s signature crop, citrus. A local farmer who lost several acres of tomatoes explains the loss this way, “A million dollars in tomatoes is about ten planted acres.”
According to Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services statistics, prior to Hurricane Ian, the initial forecast for the growing season showed overall citrus production down by 31.8%. The new forecast would represent the smallest orange crop since 24.9 million boxes were filled in the 1931-1932 season.
Asparagus crossings from Mexico through Arizona, California, and Texas in 2022 are expected to decrease. Trading active with higher prices. 11-pound cartons/crates bunched large, mostly 19.75-20.75 and standard 18.75-19.75. Peruvian imports of asparagus through South Florida ports of entry in 2022 are expected to remain about the same this week and increase slightly next week. Trading remains moderate.
Small prices are much higher, standard slightly higher, jumbo lower, others slightly lower. 11-pound cartons bunched green jumbo mostly 20.75-23.50, extra-large mostly 19.75-21.50, and large mostly 18.75-19.75. Supplies standard fairly heavy, large fairly light, others moderate. Quality and condition are variable but generally good. The market is showing more interest between shippers and retail accounts as well. Supplies are shorter than expected due to a major storm that came through about four weeks ago.
The movement of avocados from Mexico through Texas is expected to remain about the same. Trading moderate. Prices conventional 40-48s are generally unchanged, others lower. Cartons 2-layer Hass 32s mostly 28.25-30.25, 36s mostly 27.25- 29.25, 40-48s range between 27.25-30.25. Extra services included.
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Source: mymarketnews.ams.usda.gov