According to USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), the Florida Crop Progress and Condition Report for the first week of February says there were six days suitable for fieldwork for the week ending Sunday, February 7. Precipitation for the state ranged from trace amounts in many locations to as much as 4.7 inches at Cross City, located in Dixie County.
Temperatures in the citrus growing region were colder than average for this time of year. February 4th was one of the coldest days of the season, with lows ranging from the high 20s to mid-30s. The citrus region received some beneficial rainfall, with several stations reporting at least an inch of rain for the week. But according to the February 4 U.S. Drought Monitor, abnormally dry conditions expanded throughout the citrus growing region. Only Charlotte, Lee, Hendry, and Collier Counties remained drought-free.
Looking at other crops growing in the state right now, NASS reports a variety of fruits and vegetables were planted and marketed. With much of the state experiencing cold and wet conditions this past week, some producers noted damage to vegetables as a result of below-freezing temperatures that occurred. Some producers were able to plant cover crops and spring vegetables when the weather permitted. Sugarcane crops were exposed to freezing temperatures, but the injury is expected to be minimal. Minor pest pressure was noted in the southern part of the peninsula.
When it comes to livestock and pastures, NASS reports cattle conditions remained in mostly fair to good conditions throughout the state. Frosts around the state and wet conditions led to lower pasture and range condition ratings for the week.