California lemon shipments look good this season as consumption increases and consumers discover the health benefits and versatility of the fruit.
Limonaira Co. of Santa Paula, CA began shipping lemons last August from the desert region and moved into full volume in late October. San Joaquin Valley shipments started in early October, and full weekly volumes began in early November . California’s coastal area should start shipping lemons in February.
Growing conditions were excellent this year with good rain, mild temperatures and minimal wind.
Limoneira’s volume is expected to up 5 to 9 percent.
The Wonderful Co. LLC of Los Angeles is optimistic about the launch of Wonderful seedless lemons, which began shipping in the last couple of weeks.
A first this season will be Kern Ridge Growers LLC of Arvin, CA. The operation will have a small lemon crop in December in addition to its navel orange program.
Suntreat Packing & Shipping Co. of Dinuba, CA., grows lemons that now are packed and marketed by the Limoneira Co. The company grows lemons in Central California from November. 1 to March 1.