USDA’s first citrus production report for 2018/19 puts Florida orange production at 79.0 million 90-lb boxes, with early and midseason varieties forecast at 34.0 million boxes and Valencias projected at 45.0 million boxes. This forecast is somewhat higher than the industry was expecting, with most private estimates coming in between 68 and 73 million boxes. Citrus Consulting’s August estimate of 77.0 million boxes was seen by many as too high and not accounting for lingering tree damage from last year’s Hurricane Irma, which took a similar crop down to less than 45.0 million boxes. However, surviving trees have been well tended, weather since spring has been generally beneficial, and this season’s orange yield per tree is high.

Florida orange yield vs. drop rate

Source: USDA
Posted by: Information Services
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