2012: Week 42 at the Source (Week 44 in the Market)

Rain: Once again the weather has changed bringing more rain and some cloudy days. Cumulative rainfall was 49.4 mm (almost 2 inches) well distributed throughout the week.
Temperature: Both air and soil temperatures continued at very stable levels. The average minimum temperature was 22.3 Celsius degrees (72.2 F) and the average weekly temperature was 26.9 Celsius degrees (80.4 F). Average soil temperature registered 27.1 Celsius degrees (80.7 F). Relative humidity also remained stable at 84 %. Solar radiation varied in intensity throughout the week but was dominated but low radiation days.
Observations: Of great significance to our farm staff, while we did get almost 2 inches of rain during the week, the weekend weather took a turn for the better and allowed the traditional Carnival of Limon to take place. These times of variable weather it is normal to see an increased pressure from two of the most important pests in our fruit (Thecla and Spodoptera). These are the two most difficult insects to control in the cultivation of pineapple so it is possible that some small surface lesions can occur on the skin of the fruit and may be visible at destination.