Gannan Navel Orange Harvest to Begin November 1

The Ganzhou Gannan Orange Association has identified November 1 as the earliest harvest date for Gannan navel oranges for the 2015 season, which is similar to last year's production period. Ganzhou Fruit Industry Bureau data show that in 2014, Gannan navel orange acreage was over 276,000 acres, with a yield of more than 1.22 million tons. This was a decline in both area and yield compared to the previous year; orchards comprised over 286,000 acres and production was about 1.5 million tons in 2013.

Produce Report learned from industry sources that, due to the impact of citrus greening disease, Gannan navel orange production will be even lower this year, leading to higher prices for the fruit. The quoted price has already climbed to RMB 5.2~5.4 per kilogram, nearly RMB 2 more per kilogram than last year, making the domestic fruit potentially even more expensive than imported Egyptian oranges.

According to another report, Gannan navel orange orchards were reduced by about 33,000 acres in recent years in order to prevent and control citrus pests. Fortunately, Gannan navel orange unit production saw an increase of about 20 percent this year, and production is still expected to be 1.2 million tons.

A Ganzhou Fruit Industry Bureau official said November 1 is the earliest that Gannan navel oranges can be harvested, although the optimal harvest time is in late November. Growers are advised to remember this when determining a harvest schedule in order to ensure good quality navel oranges.

The Gannan Orange Association also has an initiative to put an end to the practices of early harvesting, chemical dyeing, and artificial ripening. This will ensure the healthy long-term development of the Gannan navel orange industry.

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