Sizes are peaking on 40's, 36's, 32's, and 10's. Although color and eating quality are good, defects include sheep nose, thrip, and sunburn. The lemon crop forecast is 41.0 million cartons, up 27 percent from last season. In the south coast region, minimal amounts are currently being harvested. Fruit quality has varied widely from lot to lot.
Quality is fair in the central valley with slight decay in some lots.
Fruit quality is excellent in the desert area. Statewide, defects include wind scar, botrytis bumps, tip, and picking injuries. California's tangerine production is 4.60 million cartons, up 53 percent from last season. The crop was maturing well with average quality reported. Harvest should begin in mid-October.