30 March 2006 - The index of prices received for fruit and tree nuts for January and February were the highest since the index began in 1990. Grower prices rose between December and January for oranges and grapefruit. Prices were higher this January over last January for all oranges, apples, pears, and strawberries. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) for fresh fruit rose this January above December and last January, but declined seasonally in February. Consumers paid higher prices for fresh grapefruit, lemons, and bananas the first 2 months of 2006.
Demand for citrus fruit has been slow this season through mid-March. Shipments have been running behind last season for many fresh and processing citrus fruit, including fresh and processing oranges, fresh grapefruit, lemons, and honey tangerines. Delays in the beginning of the harvest season for some of the fruit, along with big beginning juice stocks and weak domestic and international demand, has resulted in smaller shipments.
Production was down for 2005/06 for almonds and pistachio nut crops, as well as the hazelnut crop, but was higher for both walnut and pecan crops. Tighter overall supplies this season have resulted in strong grower prices. Tree nut shipments have been running behind last season for the major nut crops, except for walnuts (no data are available for pecans), through February.