Mother Nature had her way with California this year. So while the in California the calendar says its the second week of May were playing catch as the winter weather we fought turned into early spring storms. In terms of where we should be on the harvest calendar, picks are about two weeks later than expected. I have nothing to fuss about. However if you are a farmer you have plenty to keep you up at night.
Spring weather is delaying the ripening of peaches, nectarines and plums. California grows about 90 per cent of the domestic apricot crop. Most news reports have written about concern of the peach crop this year. An earlier harbinger is to check in on apricots. Unfortunately the trees' blossoms were impacted by hail and rain. Typically a cold winter will bring about apricot blossoms earlier than the peach. Overall farmers are predicting to harvest two week later than usual and for that yield to be smaller than last year.
Locally produced blueberries are not easy to come by in California. The closest Don't we love blueberries? Given the waves of concern and loss that floated through the markets these past few weeks shoppers are curious. According to The California Blueberry Association says it "expects the harvest to begin around May 22, again two weeks later than average."
One of the biggest worries is this year's tomato crop. The ground has been so dang damp and heavy that seedlings are now going in. This is much later than ideal.
Another concern is hay production. Many farmers missed at least one cutting because the fields were too wet. Much of the crop drowned. According to a farm report, "farmers must use a rotation crop between plantings of alfalfa, which rules out replanting this year. Resulting shortages will keep hay prices high for those growers who have a crop." Alfalfa is often found as part of organic feed for chickens and dairy animals.
Let's hope, as the days warm, that the bees get busy out there. The best that you can do is to be patient. And in the coming months when your local farmer wants a bit more than usual for those tomatoes, apples or almonds you continue to show your support.
Based in San Francisco, Jeanne Brophy writes about the culture and history of food at World on a Plate.
