USDA Cuts Papaya Crop Forecast

WASHINGTON - Apr 10/06 - SNS -- Hawaii fresh papaya utilization is estimated at 2.14 million pounds for March, down 14% from last month and 21% lower than a year ago, according to the USDA latest crop report.

Area in crop totaled 2,060 acres, down 10% from last month and 17% below March 2005. Harvested area totaled 1,775 acres, down 1% from last month but 24% higher than the same month last year. Frequent rains began in mid-February and continued through March, saturating papaya orchards, which stressed trees and increased disease pressure, particularly on the western islands of Oahu and Kauai.

Most papayas are grown in the Puna area of Hawaii Island and were not as adversely affected by this excessive moisture. Orchards there experienced steady flowering and new growth, while new seedlings made good progress. Growers increased spraying to control disease outbreaks and weed growth.

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