January Papaya Harvest Jumps

WASHINGTON - Feb 9/06 - SNS -- Hawaii fresh papaya utilization is estimated at 2.82 million pounds for January, up 34% from the previous month and 9% more than January 2005, according to the latest USDA crop production estimates.

Area in crop totaled 2,280 acres, down less than 1% from last month but up 2% from last January. Harvested area totaled 1,785 acres, virtually unchanged from last month but 27% above a year ago. Dry weather continued into January but a storm brought much needed rain later in the month.

Production is still being impacted by reduced fruit set caused by dry weather earlier in the season. Orchards in Puna responded well to the recent rains, with new leaf growth and blossom formation noted. Growers planted papaya trees in Opihikao and Pohoiki but large tracts of previously farmed land still await planting. Young trees in Kalapana have begun to bear fruit.

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