Post 4th of July

July 13, 2009

Many fruit markets slowed down following the July 4th weekend. Typically growers see this slowing on purchases of fresh fruits and vegetables perhaps as some have filled their freezers and jars or spending their time and money on vactations before the kids return to school. Interstate markets seem to be holding up well as travelers look for a nice place to stop while traveling.

Some local fruit like blackberries have finished up for the season in central and south Alabama. Later blueberry varieties still have some fruit but, this crop will soon be trailing off also. Peach volume and size are picking up some here in central part of the state. Varities like Fireprince, Redglobe, Loring, Bounty. I've seen some very large fruit.

Pest issues seen, increased pressure from brown rot and continued stink bug presence. Fruit cracking has also increased in some varieties. Thunderstorms have moved through at intervals releasing large amounts of water at times. Right at this moment we are getting steady rainfall as a system is moving through our area. Looks like high chances of rainfall most of the week.