This week we measured the sugar content of our oranges, expressed in degrees Brix, for the third time. Normally we only measure twice, and based on the result of the second analysis at the beginning of November we decide when to start harvesting. This year the oranges need a little longer to ripen. No one knows exactly why that is, maybe it has something to do with the frequent rainfall we have had here in Valencia over the last few months.
All in all, the oranges, clementines, grapefruits and lemons look promising this year, both in terms of quality and quantity. They just need a few more days on the trees now. It would be a shame to harvest them too early, as they won’t taste as good as they will once they are fully ripe. Unlike climacteric fruits such as melons, mangoes and bananas, citrus fruits do not continue to ripen once they have been harvested.
Speaking of rain: Yesterday morning the sky turned grey and it started to rain. According to the weather forecast, we are in for a few more rainy days, probably until the middle of next week. It is extremely important not to harvest wet or even humid fruits, as they would not keep well. Keep in mind that our citrus is 100% organic and we do not use fungicides to protect it from rot.
We are looking forward to better weather and will then double our efforts to catch up!
