Sacramento, Calif., (January 23, 2018) – Northern California experienced intermittent rainfall, with snow accumulation occurring at higher elevations, until high pressure brought drier conditions at the end of the week. Central and Southern California experienced heavy precipitation earlier in the week as a strong Pacific storm system moved through the area and eventually gave way to drier conditions for the remainder of the week.
Temperature highs ranged in the 50s to 60s in the mountains, 60s to 70s in the valley and the desert, and 60s to 80s along the coast. Temperature lows were between 20s and 30s in the mountains, 20s to 40s in the desert, 30s to 40s in the valley, and 30s to 50s along the coast.
Winter forage crops, such as wheat, barley, other cereal grains and forage mixes continued to be planted and seed shipments received. Irrigation was still necessary to maintain growth of those plantings that have germinated. Alfalfa were growing well.
Pruning continued in stone fruit orchards and vineyards. Persimmon harvest continued. Some older, poorly producing orchards and vineyards were removed and prepared for replanting. Winter dormant sprays were applied to some orchards. Navel orange harvest continued. Pomelos were harvested. Olive growers continued to prune groves.
Pruning continued in nut orchards. Some older orchards were pushed out and the ground was prepped for planting. Herbicides were applied in somepistachio groves.
Fields were being prepared and planted with winter vegetable crops. Lettuce benefitted from the recent rain and growth looks ideal. Land preparation was ongoing for tomatoes. The spring carrot crop has not emerged, while winter carrots were scheduled to be planted in two weeks. Weed control was done on organic onion while convention onions were continued to be irrigated. The garlic stand was established, but it could benefit greatly with some rain to continue growing.
Rangeland and non-irrigated pasture were reported to be primarily in poor to very poor condition. Recent precipitation was beneficial to forage development, but conditions remain poor until more growth occurs. Supplemental feeding of livestock continued. Sheep grazed on idle crop land, stubble fields, and dormant alfalfa fields. Beehives overwintering in Fresno County were given supplemental feeding.
