Conditions: California has seen extreme heat this past summer and then January dealt the deepest freeze since 1991. Until the last week of January, no measurable rainfall had dropped. Records were surely going to be set, but finally a little rain did fall. Despite these enormous swings in the weather, somehow Patterson's crops did not suffer to the level one would have expected. While citrus growers lost their crops and battled to save their trees, field crops did not show severe damage at first. Now the stress of the winter's cold is evident in several crops listed below.

Broccoli: While barely more than a bunch of leaves and dime size heads, the freeze did cause some severe rot and "cat eye" (a round uneven surface of beads on the head.) As the broccoli grows, the effects of the prolonged cold are showing up in minor to major defects as listed above and also reduced vigor and plant growth. Our expected yields are now forecasted to be 40% off.
We will have to replant for another run in early summer to avoid product shortage.

Spinach: At the time of the freeze the plants were fairly small and low to the ground, thus their plant mass and exposure was limited. Although the primary leaves did suffer spotting, no significant damage was long term. The plants have out grown the early set back and have since been flourishing in the warm days and temperate nights. February rains have fueled plant growth as the moisture helps deliver the needed nutrients from the soil. Harvest is projected to begin the last week of February from the Southern San Joaquin Valley and work its way north until he end of May.

Greens: Acreage is now being prepared and seed will be drilled in March. Collards, Turnips and Mustard Greens are the staple products we are planting.

Zucchini and Yellow Squash: Ground is being disked and prepared as furrows are thrown up to form the seedbed. As soon as the moisture content and ground temperature are at optimum levels, seed will be dropped and one of the fastest growing and prolific vegetables will begin its cycle.

Late summer and Fall Plans: While the production and sales budgets were drawn up last Fall, the reality of contracting the field and preparing the soils for fall production will soon be at hand.
It is now time to discuss requirements you may have in Baby Lima Beans, Speckled Lima Beans, Fordhook Lima Beans, Dixie Beans, Brussels Sprouts, Broccoli, Spinach, Tomatoes and Peppers.