That Florida freeze in early March hit some the state’s sweet corn, green bean and blueberry crops, and will result in fewer loading opportunities in the weeks ahead, although not as seriously as first feared. Actually, Florida is primed for a pretty good spring hauling season.
On March 4 temperatures plunged into the mid-20s as far south as Belle Glade, FL, which is located between the eastern edge of Lake Okeechobee and West Palm Beach, FL.
Initial concerns were the freeze was a lot worse, but not it now appears that shipments of the state’s sweet corn crop will be down by less than 20 percent, although this is still significant.
Blueberries in Northern Florida sustained mild-to-moderate damage to blueberries while central Florida were virtually unaffected. Blueberry loadings have been occurring now for several weeks.
Perhaps the hardist hit of Florida vegetables were green beans. On the positive side, replantings will make loadings availabe by mid-April, at least in light volume. Still over all shipments will be less due to the initial loss. somewhat diminished.
Michigan Apple Update
Michigan apple shipments were virtually demolished in 2012 following a most untimely freeze. The tree has come out of dormancy four-plus weeks early and and were clobbered by nearly two dozen frosts.
Apple shipments were reduced by 90 percent. As a result, Michigan growers and shippers are pretty edgy this time around. So far, so good with cold weather in recent weeks and it should continue for another week or more before spring weather starts arriving. This it is a matter of praying for no more freezes.