Since October rainfall was slightly above normal, but well distributed and together with ideal temperatures, which favored the plant development. The good weather conditions for the last 50 days has contributed for a rapid growth and ripening, but also obviously for a thinner crop in texture than the last two years. Received quantities show a light orange to orange color and a smaller percentage of lemon and brownish styles. Field practices and weather conditions reduced alkaloids to lower levels than the last two crops. The crop is less bodied than last year.
Quality is good being ripe, soft and oily and with tan buff color.
Alkaloids will be lower than last year, influenced by the same conditions as for flue cured reasons. There has not been reached an agreement with the Farmers Union, but the industry is practicing the above proposed price increase. Farmers are delivering normally, but received volumes are slightly below estimated. . FAQ Current Info.