Farming
Citrus
The growing period for citrus starts in April when trees are in bloom and proceeds a seven months’ time. The fruit continues to mature and in the middle of June we can make an estimate for the size of the upcoming crop. Then, harvest starts in October with all harvesting being done by hand and picked into bins. After the previous year’s harvest, pruning begins with yearly machine topping and edging. Topping and edging the trees allow sunlight to reach full circumference insuring to produce a quality piece of fruit.
Our citrus is grown in a three county area, benefiting supply allowing us to provide citrus all 12 months of the year. Bravante Produce grows and packs Navels, Minneolas, Lemons and Valencias. Navels are available from November to June, Minneolas the middle of February to the middle of April, Lemons January to June and Valencias middle of April to October.
Table Grapes
Our great tasting table grapes just don’t appear. They’re hard work and many hours are spent year around to grow each succulent berry. Starting in the middle of January, we prune and tie our vines. Pruning strengthens and prepares the vines for bearing large, sweet grapes with perfect color. In early spring, each vine is girdled with an incision that enriches the base of the vine to channel nutrients from the roots to the fruit. Bud break comes next, followed by a burst in foliage. As the days warm up, flowers bloom, then shatter to make way for the tiny green grapes that will eventually ripen into clusters.
Bravante Vineyards Fowler has the ideal variety portfolio consisting of 11 varieties that give superior continuity throughout the season. Our table grape vineyards lie in the ideal micro climate, water, and soil for growing premium table grapes and state of the art trellis and irrigation systems.
We strive to provide a great varietal mix from early, mid, to late varieties to supply our customers all season long, from May through December. At Bravante Vineyards Fowler, the newest and approved table grape varieties are being planted.
Learn more about Steve Spaulding, Bravante Produce Farm Manager & Grower.
Learn more about Scott Cooper, Bravante Produce Farming Operations Manager.
