The California Valencia season is coming to an end. Supplies of 113- to 138-count fruit are tightening. California’s Navel season has begun in a limited way.

Valencia

• California Valencia supplies are expected to ship through the week of October 18
• Quality has deteriorated; heat from last summer, lack of water, and necessary gassing are taking a toll on fruit
• Current stocks are dominated by 56- and 72-count sizes, with choice grade fruit most prevalent
• Small-size fruit (113- to 138-count oranges) will be extremely limited for the rest of the Valencia season
• Sugar levels are at 16 Brix; high sugar levels such as this typically result in a shorter shelf-life
• Expect prices for small sizes to increase

Navel

• The California Navel harvest has begun; volume will ramp up over the next three to four weeks
• Current stocks are dominated by 88- and 113-count sizes, mainly fancy grade fruit
• Sugar levels range from 11.5 to 12 Brix
• 80% of the Navels being packed are fancy grade oranges at this time
• The early variety fruit requires gassing for 72+ hours to degreen fruit
• Expect prices for large sizes to increase

Please contact your Markon customer service representative for more information.

©2021 Markon Cooperative, Inc. All rights reserved.