Thursday, April 17, 2014

Field Update- Spring 2014

Spring 2014 Crop Update

Field Updates from the growing regions of Caborca and Hermosillo, Sonora

Following Photos taken February 27, 2014

Melons are protected from potential freezing temperatures by the "tunnels" shown below. The tunnel also provides protection from birds that could disturb the seedlings. 





The following photos show the same plants, on April 14, 2014 after the tunnels have been removed. 


 Melons are maturing with extremely clean exterior.



The round section at the base of the flower illustrates a successful pollination. These melon plants will produce fruit for the next few months.


Watermelon production is healthy, with vigorous vines. Sizing will be large to start. Photos from April 15th.


There will be plenty of fruit to come in the next few weeks.


Cantaloupe fields are strong. Every melon has a styrofoam plate underneath, to prevent direct contact with soil. You may notice 4 faint marks on our melons. This is a sign that they sat on these plates.


The growers we represent make continuous efforts to improve the conditions for field workers. New restrooms and washing areas were constructed recently, illustrated below. All sinks have hot water. These improvements are part of the social responsibility aspect of the Rainforest Alliance certification carried by the Monica's Pride label melons.