Raisin Production up a Whopping 25.5 Percent
Raisin harvest has begun, which is about 7 to 10 days earlier than last year.
The raisin-type variety grape forecast is 2.40 million tons, up 25.5 percent from the 2012 final production. Based on the objective measurement survey, bunches per vine totaled a record 47.7 compared to 29.1 in 2012.
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| Thompson Seedless on the Tray |
Acreage of bearing age is 200,000, which means a record high yield is expected. The 2013 California raisin-type grape crop is shaping up to be the largest crop since 2008.
Weather conditions have been good for crop development, which is a few days ahead of normal. Mildew pressure was low, but mites were significant. In traveling throughout the valley, California Ag Today editors report a lot of burned leaves due to mite feeding.
The forecast is based on the results of the Raisin Grape Objective Measurement (O.M.) Survey conducted in July. The Fresno-based Raisin Administrative Committee provided funding for the 2013 Raisin O.M. Survey.
What effect this production has on grower prices is still up in the air at this time.
