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Cannabidiol oil applied to strawberries can extend the berry’s shelf life, according to research published in ScienceDirect from University of South Florida scientists.

“When we have cooler years, the berry quality is a lot sweeter and firmer...this year’s quality of fruit is going to be next-level. Hopefully, the market will prevail, and everyone is happy, COVID notwithstanding.”

The transition between Southern Hemisphere and Northern Hemisphere grape harvest could leave a gap in green grape supplies, shippers say.

Florida avocado growers have seen supply waiver with hot demand for South Florida real estate and from disease pressure.

California’s Coachella Valley grape output may slip in 2021, as bearing grape acreage has declined and the industry has consolidated.

The Packer is seeking input from growers, shippers and marketers of Florida avocados to help prepare coverage for its May 31 Florida avocado section.

U.S. imported spot grape prices were rising in early February after heavy rains in central Chile destroyed a good part of the mid-season grape crop.

With expanded acreage in Sonora, Mexico, Nogales, Ariz.-based Divine Flavor LLC expects to grow its volume by about 25%, said Michael DuPuis, quality assurance and public relations coordinator.

Rio Rico, Ariz.-based Fresh Farms should begin its grape harvest in Sonora, Mexico, around May 20-25, said Al Voll, salesman.

Illume Agriculture is in charge of the Bagdasarian grape deal, having taken over the management of vineyards formerly owned by Bagdasarian Farms, which has sold its farming assets to a private equity group.