Vegetable growers across most of South Texas are hoping the unseasonably-warm winter will remain now that planting has begun to wrap up across the Texas Winter Garden, according to Southwest Farm Press.
Warm temperatures have helped winter spinach crops arrive at market early, and some growers are still producing.
As for strawberry growers, they may see an earlier-than-usual crop this spring and have high hopes for a good harvest if the weather holds.
Further south, near Uvalde, potatoes have been planted in Frio County, but have not emerged.
Onions are being harvested in the Lower Rio Grande Valley, and citrus harvest also continues.
Cabbage and carrots are reported to be healthy in the Valley region.
Vegetable farming in the Valley accounts for an estimated $60 million in annual production. The Valley is known for its summer and winter production of watermelon, cantaloupes, onions, leafy greens, carrots, cabbage and potatoes, according to Southwest Farm Press.
Warmer temperatures and dry conditions have allowed the Lower RGV to continue harvest of sugarcane.
The Rio Grande Valley traditionally produces the first bale of cotton each year.
North of the Valley in Zapata County, officials have issued red-flag wildfire warnings as a result of drying conditions. Without more rain in the forecast, the danger of wildfires will grow.
While less rain has helped to prevent major pest and disease issues in South Texas this winter, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension officials warn that weeds are expected to emerge earlier than usual, especially after spring rains begin.