By Clint Thompson and Frank Giles
Florida’s strawberry season is under way, as growers are currently planting this year’s crop. AgNet Media’s Frank Giles caught up with one grower at the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) Global Produce & Floral Show in Orlando, Florida, in mid-October.
Sam Astin, whose farm is located in Plant City, Florida, talked about the progress being made with this year’s planting season.
“Well, we got off to a good start. We started Sept. 24 and the plants have been good overall,” Astin said. “It’s been plugging along at a steady pace with about 80% done planting at this time.”
One of the main questions every year is how acreage looks for the crop in the region. Is it up, down or about the same as in previous years?
“It seems to be a small increase, but I think it’s going to be a great season ahead. The weather looks good so far,” Astin said.
According to the Oct. 22 release of the U.S. Drought Monitor, moderate and severe drought continue to be observed in Hillsborough County where the much of Florida’s strawberry crop is located.
Astin, along with numerous other Florida farmers attended the produce show in Orlando on Oct. 14-16. The annual show rotates between Orlando, Atlanta and Anaheim, California. He was very positive about the show’s impact.
“The show has been great. We’ve had several new customers come by. It looks really good,” Astin said. “We’re setting up for a great season ahead with the new customers.”