The California Avocado Commission (CAC) forecasts a harvest of 208 million pounds for the 2023-24 year, a decrease from the previous year's volume of 237 million pounds.

According to a statement issued by the Commission, weather and market conditions will be key factors when California avocado growers begin harvesting. The possibility of a wet winter could lead some farmers to delay picking to allow the avocados to mature, which could increase the crop volume.

Terry Splane, vice president of marketing for the California Avocado Council (CAC), expressed his anticipation of seeing California avocados in stores and on consumers' plates. The harvest, currently dominated by the Hass variety at 196 million pounds, is expected to increase in March and April, with additional contributions from other commercially grown California varieties.

Jason Cole, president of the California Avocado Commission's Board of Directors, noted that the recent rains followed by sunny days are beneficial for avocado trees and fruit size. The harvest, which has already begun on a smaller scale, is expected to accelerate when market conditions become favorable.

Source: Fruit Portal