California has had good weather for bloom. The bloom appears to be a little smaller than last year, but still very good. There have been a few cold nights in Central California over the past week, but it should not prevent the state from setting another full crop of fruit. Pears are nearing full bloom in Northern California. They look to have a strong bloom as well. The year is starting off well for fruit production in 2008.

California strawberry shipments to date still lag well behind the five year average. The volume so far to date is still behind the freeze year of 2007. Mexico has shipped 30% more to the U.S. this year than at the same time last year. Florida is slightly behind their shipment volume from last year.