Jesse Silva, vice president of sales at California’s Kings River Packing, recently discussed the spring and summer citrus season from a grower and consumer and perspective on the AgNet West Radio Network. His observations follow.
GROWING CONDITIONS AND COSTS
This year’s warmer growing conditions have created both challenges and opportunities. Larger fruit sizes and softer textures require careful handling, but quality remains strong.
Spring rains have played a positive role, helping reduce tree stress, improve sizing and extend the harvest window for late-season varieties.
Like much of agriculture, citrus growers face rising costs, from packaging to fuel. However, those increases don’t always translate to higher retail prices.
LEMONS REMAIN COMPETITIVE
California lemons remain highly competitive thanks to strong quality and lower freight costs compared to imports. However, maintaining year-round supply requires supplementing domestic production with imports from countries like Chile and Argentina.
STRONG CONSUMER DEMAND
Citrus continues to outperform many seasonal fruits when it comes to consumer demand. Shoppers make significantly more trips to the store to buy citrus compared to categories like stone fruit. That consistency makes citrus a year-round staple.
Retailers are leaning into that demand with large displays and aggressive pricing, ensuring citrus stays front and center.
CONSUMER TIPS
Silva’s message to shoppers is simple: Now is a great time to buy citrus. With strong supply, excellent quality and competitive pricing, consumers can expect great value in stores.
Silva also highlighted an important consumer tip: Appearance isn’t everything. Summer citrus like Valencia oranges can regreen due to heat, but inside, the fruit is often sweeter and juicier than ever.
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