February is a decisive month for citrus farming in the province of Castellón. The season is entering its final stage for many varieties, and work in the fields and warehouses remains key to ending the season in the best possible conditions. At this point, factors such as the weather, the pace of harvesting, and the market situation determine how the season will unfold.
February: an advanced stage of the citrus fruit campaign
In Castellón, February is usually a advanced stage of the citrus fruit campaign, with most of the early and mid-season varieties already harvested. During these weeks, activity focuses mainly on late varieties, which continue to be released onto the market as they reach their optimum ripeness.
The weather plays a fundamental role during this period. The usual winter temperatures favour a good preservation of the fruit on the tree, allowing harvesting to be adjusted to prioritise quality. However, episodes of intense cold, prolonged rainfall or sudden changes in temperature can affect the pace of work and force changes to be made to the schedule.
Pace of collection and organisation of work
During February, harvesting remains active, although it tends to be more selective and planned. The aim is to harvest citrus fruits at their peak, ensuring a product with good size, flavour and appearance. In this context, coordination between farmers, technicians and cooperatives is essential to optimise resources and respond to market demands.
Además del trabajo en el campo, en este mes también continúa la actividad en los almacenes, donde se realizan labores de selección, confección y expedición. Todo ello forma parte de un engranaje que busca mantener la regularidad en los envíos y asegurar que el consumidor final reciba un producto de calidad.
The market in the final stretch of the season
February is also a month when the market begins to look towards the end of the campaign, which may influence demand behaviour. The presence of domestically produced citrus fruits remains significant, although competition from other countries' production increases during this period.
Given this scenario, quality, origin and traceability become even more important. For the citrus sector in Castellón, committing to careful production and responsible marketing is key to facing this final phase with stability and ending the season on a positive note.
