April Papaya Output Rises

WASHINGTON - May 11/07 - SNS -- Hawaii fresh papaya utilization is estimated at 2.23 million pounds for April, up 3% from March and 29% more than April 2006, according to the USDA's latest crop estimates.

Area in crop totaled 1,930 acres, 6% less than a year ago. Harvested area totaled 860 acres in April, down 1% from March and 52% lower than April 2006. Conditions in papaya growing areas were generally favorable during April. Normal field activities were conducted as weather permitted.

Hawaii's revised 2006 annual papaya utilization is 28.7 million pounds, up 1% from the preliminary estimate but 13% lower than last year's production. Harvested area, at 1,530 acres for 2006, is 3% higher than the previous year.

Excessive rain from late February through April of last year damaged papaya fruit and trees by causing soil erosion, flooding, and disease outbreaks. Drier weather followed and growers were able to resume normal field activities.

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