August Papaya Crop Up 10%

WASHINGTON - Oct 28/08 - SNS -- Hawaii fresh papaya production is estimated at 2.20 million pounds for August 2008, up 10% from July but 22% lower than a year ago, according to the USDA's revised crop production and seeded area estimates.

Total crop acreage for August is estimated at 2,040 acres, unchanged from July but down 3% from August 2007. Harvested area totaled 1,330 acres, unchanged from the previous month but 3% lower than August 2007.

Low soil moisture levels were replenished by rainfall the first half of the month; however, conditions remained generally dry, and some areas of the State continued to take water conservation measures. In fields exposed to prolonged dry weather, gaps in the fruit columns became more evident.

Warm temperatures allowed fruit ripening to continue at a steady pace. Field maintenance and planting preparations were ongoing, but the shortage of seed remained a concern for growers.

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