Processed Tomato Crop Increases

WASHINGTON - Sep 6/07 - SNS -- Contracted tomato production is forecast at 12.6 million tons for the United States, up 19% from last year, according to the USDA. An increase of 5% in contracted harvested area is accompanied by a yield increase of 4.94 tons per acre.

This has been an outstanding year for processing tomato growers in California. Weather patterns have been conducive for successful fruit setting. Warm weather accelerated crop progress in early spring and harvest began earlier than usual in many areas. Crop conditions have generally been excellent. Vigorous plant growth was noted during the first weeks of summer and exceptionally high yields have been reported in most growing regions.

In Ohio, harvest was 10% complete by August 19. Michigan's tomatoes progressed well through the summer. Indiana's processing tomatoes were in good condition despite hot and dry weather throughout the State. Many processors had to irrigate to make up for the lack of rainfall.

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