Growers and caretakers have been using all available types of irrigation and supplemental watering devices. Several groves are in all stages of wilt with some leaf loss. Rain is badly needed in all areas. There were a few light showers Sunday afternoon and night of April the 25th, but those were far from sufficient to relieve the current drought. The bloom cycle continues because of the dry conditions.
Some trees are in full open bloom while a few others have only swelling buds.
Most well cared for groves that are heavily irrigated have already had complete petal drop. Valencia harvest continues very active as growers try to get most of the fruit off the trees before it gets too soft from the dry conditions. Most of the grapefruit is still being harvested on the lower east coast with the processor getting the biggest share. Movement of Temples and Honey tangerines is slowing as supplies are running out. Caretakers are cutting what little cover crops they have and spraying herbicides.