California transitioning from Valencia to Navel oranges

Markon Cooperative BB #:123315 released this orange crop update October 6, 2026:

The California Valencia season is ending. The California Navel season will start on a limited basis next week. Prices for small-size fruit (113- to 138-count oranges) will ease in late October.

Valencia

• California Valencia supplies are expected to ship through late October
• Current stocks are dominated by 56- and 72-count sizes; choice-grade fruit is most plentiful
• Small-size fruit (113- to 138-count oranges) will be extremely limited for the rest of the Valencia season
• Sugar levels range from 13 to 15 Brix; high sugar levels such as this typically result in a shorter shelf-life

Navel

• Limited California Navel harvesting will begin next week; volume will ramp up over the next three to four weeks
• Stocks will be dominated by 88- and 113-count sizes; fancy grade fruit is most prevalent
• Sugar levels range from 10 to 12 Brix
• This early variety fruit requires gassing for 72+ hours
• Expect prices for small sizes to inch down as Navel yields increase

Please contact your Markon Account Manager for more information.