TRANSITION BEGINS

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The historic high pricing continues and over the next few weeks Coastal vegetable production will be winding down and transitioning to the Central Valley and the Desert Southwest. Lettuce, Leaf and Peppers  are the first items to transition followed by Celery, Broccoli and Cauliflower later next month.  Most markets are easing off  sustained highs  but with the uncertainty of a seamless supply due to labor, water and weather there is some hesitancy of  the direction of the markets and it’s  reflecting in Thanksgiving promotional opportunities.

Weather throughoutCaliforniaand the West Coast forecast for normal temps this week  but cooling trend with possible showers the middle of next week . Mexicois expecting possible Thunder showers this week but returning to near normal for next week . Norms for Coastal California are 72hi:47lo  ,Central Valley  76hi:50 lo , Desert norms 88hi:52lo

Transportation rates held steady last week after dipping slightly the past couple weeks.  Overall supply appears to be strong but teams will remain in high demand with increased regulations putting pressure on drivers ability to make on time deliveries. Plan ahead for best values and service.

LETTUCE – Production continues to be light to moderate with quality concerns of Mildew, Fringe burn and seeders. Although the market has eased slightly with only a couple weeks in the Coastal production area  the market

will have little pressure to ease further until the new growing areas in theCentral Valleystart up over the next couple weeks. Although fewer shippers are choosing to transition to theCentral Valleythe result could mean a wider range of quality.  The off quality and lack of retail demand may eventually lead to a softer market.  Production fromNew Mexicocould also influence the  market to soften.
LEAF LETTUCE-  Romaine production continues to be light . Continued defects range from  fringe and tip burn along with mildew and seeders although there is still some nice quality available. Fewer shippers are choosing to transition to the Central Valley and are taking a chance their quality will hold.  Green and Red leaf  supplies have increased but with a wide range in quality as well. jeux flash

ASPARAGUS- Production  from Coastal Mexico  and Peru has been limited and the market has firmed over the past week. Holiday promotions are still available but are tightening rapidly.

CARROTS-  Carrot production has continued to increase with better supplies of Jumbos . Quality has been excellent.

BROCCOLI-  The dynamics of the broccoli market are in flux. Broccoli is typically grown as a rotational crop for lettuce but with the steep increase in strawberry acreage and other rotation crops broccoli acreage is down significantly. Salinas and Santa Maria production continues with light to moderate supplies . The market has been extremely tight  but has corrected with increased production from Mexico and less demand.  Production from Central Valley will help supplement supplies and put pressure on the market to ease further but water and labor restrictions may affect their supplies as well  . There are many factors influencing  broccoli making it much more volatile  than in the past when it was taken for granted to be oversupplied and promotable.

CAULIFLOWER-  Lighter production continues with extreme high market.  Supplies should start increasing as we approach the Fall season.  Quality has been declining over the past few days with increase in discoloration and bruising.

CELERY-   The market has been active  and higher overall quotes.  Shortages in other commodities have increased “demand” as well as production from Michigan winding down,  Oxnard is expected to begin production in a couple weeks but there are reports of disease possibly  affecting yields.  There should be sufficient supplies for Thanksgiving but pricing may not be at the desired levels for promotions.

BELL PEPPERS- Production  in the California  Central Valley and Coastal Valley will wind down this week and with production limited out of the desert and Mexico the market has been active. Red and Yellows have continued to be active and should follow the same pattern with lighter supplies through the transition to Coachella and Nogales. Eastern Bells quality has been improving as new production areas in Georgia and Florida have had better growing conditions.

STRAWBERRIES- As with many vegetable commodities strawberries are gradually transitioning South for the Winter.Santa Maria is in full production and Oxnard and Mexico are just beginning. Although Oxnard acreage is  down significantly which will have a major impact on convenience ,Mexico acreage is projected to pick up the slack. Quality is just fair to OK from all areas showing a range of bruising with Santa Maria  and Oxnard being the best.Salinas/Watsonville  after a strong Summer season should finish up as early as next week if forecast of rain comes through. Overall volume and quality should improve weekly. Increasing supplies of Raspberry amp; Blackberry have eased the market.  Similar to Strawberries quality and volume should improve weekly.

TRANSITION BEGINS

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The historic high pricing continues and over the next few weeks Coastal vegetable production will be winding down and transitioning to the Central Valley and the Desert Southwest. Lettuce, Leaf and Peppers  are the first items to transition followed by Celery, Broccoli and Cauliflower later next month.  Most markets are easing off  sustained highs  but with the uncertainty of a seamless supply due to labor, water and weather there is some hesitancy of  the direction of the markets and it’s  reflecting in Thanksgiving promotional opportunities.
Weather throughout California and the West Coast forecast for normal temps this week  but cooling trend with possible showers the middle of next week .  Mexico is expecting possible Thunder showers this week but returning to near normal for next week . Norms for Coastal California are 72hi:47lo  , Central Valley  76hi:50 lo , Desert norms 88hi:52lo

Transportation rates held steady last week after dipping slightly the past couple weeks.  Overall supply appears to be strong but teams will remain in high demand with increased regulations putting pressure on drivers ability to make on time deliveries. Plan ahead for best values and service.
LETTUCE

.- Production continues to be light to moderate with 

Q

uality concerns of Mildew, Fringe burn and seeders. Although the market has eased slightly with only a couple weeks in the Coastal production area  the market 

will have little pressure to ease further until

the new growing areas in the Central Valley

 start up over the next couple weeks.
 Although fewer shippers are choosing to transition to the Central Valley the result could mean a wider range of quality.  The off quality and lack of retail demand may eventually lead to a softer market.  Production from New Mexico could also influence the  market to soften.

LEAF LETTUCE-  Romaine production continues to be light . Continued defects

range

 from  fringe and tipburn along with mildew and seeders although there is still some nice quality available. Fewer shippers are choosing to transition to the Central Valley and are taking a chance their quality will hold.  Green and Red leaf  supplieshave increased but with a wide range in quality as well.  parie en ligne


ASPARAGUS- Production  from Coastal Mexico  and Peru has been limited and the market has firmed over the past week. Holiday promotions are still available but are tightening rapidly. 

CARROTS-  Carrot production has continued to increase with better supplies of Jumbos . Quality has been excellent. 

BROCCOLI-  The dynamics of the broccoli market are in flux. Broccoli is typically grown as a rotational crop for lettuce but with the steep increase in strawberry acreage and other rotation crops broccoli acreage is down significantly. Salinas and Santa Maria production continues with light to moderate supplies . The market has been extremely tight  but has corrected with increased production from Mexico and less demand.  Production from Central Valley will help supplement supplies and put pressure on the market to ease further but water and labor restrictions may affect their supplies as well  . There are many factors influencing  broccoli making it much more volatile  than in the past when it was taken for granted to be oversupplied and promotable.

CAULIFLOWER-  Lighter production continues with extreme high market.  Supplies should start increasing as we approach the Fall season.  Quality has been declining over the past few days with increase in discoloration and bruising.

CELERY-   The market has been active  and higher overall quotes.  Shortages in other commodities have increased “demand” as well as production from Michigan winding down,  Oxnard is expected to begin production in a couple weeks but there are reports of disease possibly  affecting yields.  There should be sufficient supplies for Thanksgiving but pricing may not be at the desired levels for promotions.

BELL PEPPERS- Production  in the California  Central Valley and Coastal Valley will wind down this week and with production limited out of the desert and Mexico the market has been active. Red and Yellows have continued to be active and should follow the same pattern with lighter supplies through the transition to Coachella and Nogales. Eastern Bells quality has been improving as new production areas in Georgia and Florida have had better growing conditions.

STRAWBERRIES- As with many vegetable commodities strawberries are gradually transitioning South for the Winter. Santa Maria is in full production and Oxnard and Mexico are just beginning. Although Oxnard acreage is  down significantly which will have a major impact on convenience , Mexico acreage is projected to pick up the slack. Quality is just fair to OK from all areas showing a range of bruising with Santa Maria  and  Oxnard being the best. Salinas/ Watsonville after a strong Summer season should finish up as early as next week if forecast of rain comes through. Overall volume and quality should improve weekly. Increasing supplies of Raspberry

 amp; Blackberry

 have eased the market.  Similar to Strawberries quality and volume should improve weekly.   

_________________

Tim  Tomasello

Volatile Markets

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Strong high pressure swept across northern CA into the Great Basin on Thu and Fri producing a dry and hot offshore flow event for the Central Coast.  Max temps  warm to the 80s to low 90s Fri, then 90s across the board on Sat and Sun while very low humidity levels  allow morning lows to dip into the mid-upper 30s in the colder inland valleys, mostly 40s to low 50s elsewhere.  Wind protected valleys  touch freezing this weekend.  On Mon, wind shift northwesterly resulting in a sharp cooling of afternoon highs.  Expect low-mid 80s inland by Mon, low-mid 70s along the shores.

MAX TEMPS:  Watsonville-Salinas:  Mid 70s Thu, warming to low-mid 90s by Sat, returning to mid-70s by Mon.  Santa Maria:  Mid 70s Thu, warming to low 90s by Sat, cooling to low 70s by Mon.  King City-Paso Robles:  Mid 70s to 80s Thu, warming to low-mid 90s Sat/Sun, cooling to low 80s by Mon.  Inland small valleys north :  Low 80s Thu, warming to mid-upper 90s Sat/Sun, cooling to upper 80s Mon.

OUTLOOK:  Max temps continue to cool Tue under moderate onshore winds thenpossible Thunderstorm along the coast on Wed  followed by  near normal thru Fri, Oct 9-11 under a dry, offshore regime.

Transportation rates dipped slightly this past week . Overall supply seems to be strong especially for singles. Increased regulations will continue to put pressure on drivers logs and likely delay even the fastest trucks moving forward. Teams will be in high demand.  Plan ahead for best value and service.

LETTUCE – Improved quality was short lived as lower yields and heavy contracted volume have rebounded the market to higher levels. Quality concerns with  Mildew, Fringe burn and seeders continue.  With only a couple weeks in the Coastal production area  the market will have little pressure to ease until the new growing areas in theCentral Valley start up in a couple weeks
LEAF LETTUCE-  Romaine production continues to be sufficient

but with the elevated iceberg market the Romaine market is poised to react especially with the eastern homegrown production starting to wind down . Continued defects range from  fringe and tipburn along with mildew and seeders although there is still some nice quality available. Green and Red leaf  supplies have increased but with a wide range inquality as well.

ASPARAGUS- Production continues to increase from Coastal Mexico  and Peru.  The market should continue to ease as supplies increase.

CARROTS-  Carrot production has been steady but with slightly smaller sizing.  Jumbos have been in short supply but have shown improvement.

BROCCOLI- Salinas and Santa Maria production continues with light to moderate supplies . The market has been extremely tight with   cooler nightime  temps and shorter days. Increased  production from Mexico  and slightly warmer days should help supplies but heavily contracted and reduced acreage has kept the market on a record pace.Brown bead and hollow stem are still a concern but quality seems to be improving.  The crown market has been unusually active with strong demand from export and processors.

CAULIFLOWER-  Lighter production  due to a preceding overly heavy production period  combined with an active broccoli market led to a rise in the Cauliflower market. Supplies should even out and the market should stabilize

machine a sous colombus

by the end of the week . Quality has been mostly good with some light cream coloring.

CELERY-   The market has been steady with improved sizing and yields.

Lower freight rates and slowing production fromMichiganwill put pressure on the market to go higher especially heading into the Thanksgiving contract proposal period.
BELL PEPPERS- Production  in the California  Central Valley andCoastalValleys   continue to produce excellent quality.

Demand has held steady as well as the market

with Greens . Red and Yellows have started with better volume and the market has eased slightly but still remains active with many local growing areas in theMidwestand East still having issues.

STRAWBERRIES- Production is starting to slow down

fromSalinas/ Watsonvilleafter a strong Summer season. Fall crop acreage fromSanta Maria is starting to increase andOxnardis still a few weeks away from seeing any additional volume. There is a wide range in quality with many berries being shipped close to market.If forecast precipitation comes in on Wednesday look for additional product to be diverted to freezer .  The market will continue to be strong for good fruit but will continue to ease for softer fruit. Raspberry amp; Blackberry supplies have  slowed and the market has tightened .

_________________

Tim  Tomasello

A Little Bit of Everything

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This past week brought a little of everything throughout the week .  A little rain, sun and wind.  Heading into October most forecast call for near normal weather with cooler nighttime temperatures but warm daytime temps. California Coast norms 74/50-52 . The Inland Valley norms 86/58 and The Desert  norms 96/60. 

Transportation rates dipped slightly this past week . Overall supply seems to be strong especially for singles. Increased regulations will continue to put pressure on drivers logs and likely delay even the fastest trucks moving forward. Teams will be in high demand.  Plan ahead for best value and service.

LETTUCE- . Quality has  improved as well as supplies. Still there are some quality concerns with  Mildew, Fringe burn and seeders.  The lettuce quality will peak next week and won’t make a substantial improvement until the transition to the new growing areas later in the month.  The market is adjusting to reflect the overall lack of demand at the higher pricing  that lower yields  and contracted pricing artificially created.  With only a couple weeks in the Coastal production area  the market may improve depending on the new growing areas in the Central Valley and the desert.

LEAF LETTUCE-  Romaine production continues to be sufficient  with continued  ranging defects from  fringe and tipburn along with mildew and seeders although there is still some nice quality available. Green and Red leaf supplies have increased but with a wide range in quality as well. 

ASPARAGUS- Production continues to increase from Coastal Mexico  andPeru.  The market should continue to ease as supplies increase. 

CARROTS-  jeu flash poker
 Carrot production has been steady but with slightly smaller sizing.  Jumbos have been in short supply but have shown improvement. 

BROCCOLI- Salinas and Santa Maria production continues with light to moderate supplies . The market has been extremely tight with   cooler nightime  temps and shorter days which immediately followed a period of warm weather  which created a significant slow down in production. Increased  production from Mexico  and slightly warmer days should help supplies and ease the market slightly.   Brown bead and hollow stem are still a concern but quality seems to be improving daily.  The crown market has been unusually active with strong demand from export and processors. 

CAULIFLOWER-  Lighter production  due to a preceding overly heavy production period  combined with an active broccoli market led to a rise in the Cauliflower market. Supplies should even out and the market should stabilize heading into October.  Quality has been mostly good with some light cream coloring.

CELERY-   The market has been steady with improved sizing and yields.  Freight rates continue to keep demand from peaking but as Michigan production  slows the market will strengthen.   


BELL PEPPERS- Production  in the California  Central Valley and Coastal Valleys   continue to produce excellent quality.  The market has eased with Green especially smaller sizes. Red and Yellows have started with bettervolume and the market has eased slightly but still remains active with many local growing areas in the Midwest and East still having issues. 

STRAWBERRIES- Production is starting to slow down after a strong Summer season. Fall crop acreage is  minimal from Santa Maria and Oxnard is still a few weeks away from seeing any additional volume. There is a wide range in quality with many berries being shipped close to market especially after this past weeks showers further soften mature fruit.  The market will continue to be strong for several more weeks . Quality on the new crop out of Santa Maria is showing improvement over the current Summer plantings which are winding down.   Raspberries supplies have  slowed and the market has tightened as well .   

September 11th

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After a brief warm spell early last week, weather in the West is forecast for near normal with temperatures in the low to mid 70’s  along the coast, mid 90’s to low 100’s in the Central Valley, and Low 100’s are expected in the Deserts with possible tropical moisture coming from the Mexico.  California Coast norms 72/52-54. The Inland Valley norms 92/62 and The Desert norms 103/68.

Transportation rates continue to be steady. Overall supply seems to be strong especially for singles. Increased regulations will continue to put pressure on drivers’ logs and likely delay even the fastest trucks moving forward. Teams will become in high demand.  Plan ahead for best value and service.

LETTUCE- Quality has slipped over the past week with ranging quality, shape and size. Mildew, Fringe burn and seeders along with smaller size have reduced the availability on 24’s. The overall market will react even with moderate demand.  With only a month left in the Coastal production area quality will not likely rebound until new growing areas in the Central Valley and the desert start. There will likely be deals on the smaller 30 size lettuce.

LEAF LETTUCE- Romaine production continues to be moderate with many ranging defects from fringe and tip burn along with mildew and seeders. Green and Red leaf supplies have increased but with a wide range in quality as well.

ASPARAGUS- Limited production continues from Coastal Mexico and Peru.  The market should continue to be strong with limited supplies.

CARROTS- Carrot production has been steady but with slightly smaller sizing.  Jumbos have been in short supply but have shown improvement this week.

BROCCOLI- Salinas and Santa Maria production continues with some increasing quality concerns.  Brown bead and hollow stem are the overriding issues which have led to a decrease in supplies. The crown market has been unusually active with strong demand from export and processors. Supplies may increase in coming weeks depending if quality improves otherwise look for continue pressure on the market.

CAULIFLOWER- Last week spike in production will lead to lighter supplies by the end of the week and into next as heavy first cuttings will leave less available for subsequent harvest.  The market bottomed out earlier this week and should rebound slightly especially the 9 count. Quality has been mostly good with some light cream coloring.

CELERY-   The market has improved as sizing and yields have declined.  Freight rates continue to prevent strong demand but Michigan production will start winding down and the market will strengthen.

BELL PEPPERS- Production in the California Central Valley and Coastal Valleys   continue to produce excellent quality.  The market has eased with Green especially smaller sizes. Red and Yellows have started with better volume and the market has eased slightly but still remains active with many local growing areas in the Midwest and East not at full production.

STRAWBERRIES- Production is starting to slow down after a strong summer season. Fall crop acreage is minimal from Santa Maria and Oxnard is still a few weeks away from seeing any additional volume. There is a wide range in quality with many berries being shipped close to market.  The market will continue to be strong for several more weeks. Quality on the new crop out of Santa Maria is showing improvement over the current summer plantings which are winding down.   Raspberries supplies have started to slow and the market has tightened as well.

_________________

Happy 4th of July!

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Weather in the West is forecast for extreme Hot inland through most of this week before cooling to near normal for the weekend. Coastal regions will also see temperature ranges of 78-88 but the Desert and Central Valley are HOT .  115-122 degrees forecast. California Coast norms 72/52-54 . The  Inland Valley norms 95/66 and The Desert  norms 107/72.



Transportation rates surprisingly maintained this past week but could tighten with some trucks sitting idle for the Fourth of July Holiday. But overall supply seems to be strong which will eventually lead to lower rates once we get past this week. Increased regulations will continue to put pressure on drivers logs and likely delay even the fastest trucks moving forward. Plan ahead for best value and service.


LETTUCE-  Production in Salinas is starting to transition to the northern part of the valley where yields and quality normally improve. Quality has been good but with this weeks heat look for a temporary setback with wilting , Sun, Fringe and tipburn with occasional mildew.  Supplies are expected to lessen slightly although production from Colorado may keep markets in check .

LEAF LETTUCE-   Romaine  production continues to be moderate with mostly good quality although fringe and tipburn along with mildew continue to be present and reduce overall supplies. Green and Red leaf  supplies have been sufficient with a wide range in quality as well. Local East Coast supplies also are contributing to lessen the demand out West.

ASPARAGUS- Production continues from Coastal Mexico , Washington and Peru. Quality has been an improvement over the end of the Central California deal. The market has significantly leveled off over the past few weeks but looks to firm in the coming weeks.

CARROTS-  Carrot production has been steady but with slightly smaller sizing but sizing should start to improve as well as overall availability which will bring good promotional opportunities.

BROCCOLI- Salinas and Santa Maria production continues to be steady  but on the lighter side.  Quality has been good with production heaviest to crowns. Strong export demand continues to keep pressure on the market to remain active and limits the shippers ability to pack bunch broccoli. Supplies look to increase in the coming weeks  which will put pressure on the market to ease.

CAULIFLOWER-  Production continues to be moderate due to lighter plantings in the Salinas Valley. Supplies could go either way with extreme heat occasionally having a negative effect on growth. Either way look for quality to be affected with wilting plants exposing the cauliflower to the elements causing cream-yellow coloring on the curd.

CELERY-   Production is winding down in Oxnard this week which could temporarily firm prices for the Salinas crop but Michigan production is right around the corner. Better supplies on larger sizes continues . Higher freight rates have contributed to lighten demand.

CITRUS-  Valencia’s sizing and flavor profile are quickly improving and the market is steady. Sizing is currently peaking on 113’s

BELL PEPPERS- Production  in the California  Central Valley  continues to produce excellent quality.  Green sizing will be heaviest to XLarge and Jumbo. The market reflects the heavy supplies available. Red and Yellows have started with better volume and will improve daily. Look for additional supplies with the warm desert temperatures. Eastern Bells continue to struggle with consistent quality due to weather.


STRAWBERRIES- Production was interrupted early last week with heavy drizzle and now the heat will soften fruit further making travel to the East near impossible. Limited labor forces growers to divert a larger percentage to the freezers leaving supplies falling short of heavy demand for the Holiday.  Better sizing and quality  will return by mid July for continued promotional supplies. Recent weather has also affected Raspberries amp; Blackberry production and quality but they should rebound quickly.   


GRAPES-   Production from Mexico continues and the  California desert production is also in full swing as is Central California.  Quality has been excellent with good sizing and flavor profile. The overlapping volume has flooded the market with great values.

MELONS – Cantaloupes volume has been limited especially the larger sizes but look for an increase in production with the Westside starting this week .  Honeydew production has been heavy and the market looks to continue to be depressed through the middle of July. Quality has been excellent.

PRODUCE WEST TRENDS

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Weather in the West is forecast for mostly mild temperatures . Windy conditions that plagued the entire West Coast much of May seem to be settling. Temperatures along the coast are expected to be near normal the next couple weeks with an occasional spike on the weekend. The Desert and Central Valley are forecast for above normal temps for the next 10 days before returning to near normal with potential forthunderstorms . California Coast norms 69/50-52 . The  Inland Valley norms 84-89/52-60 and The Desert  norms 100/65. 

Transportation rates leveled this past week although still at elevated rates. With increase in fruit offerings and D.O.T. inspections this week truck availability will be tested and rates will likely rise as the week progresses. Look for rates to continue to spike as we approach the Summer season.  Plan ahead for best value and service.

LETTUCE-  Production in Salinas is starting to transition to the northern part of the valley where yields and quality normally improve although this year quality will continue to see the effects from the strong winds the past month . Fringe and tipburn with occasional mildew.  Suppliesare expected to lessen slightly and the market could continue to firm. 

CHERRIES-  California Cherry production is starting to come to an early end and the delayed start in the Northwest along with scattered thunderstorms has tightened supplies just as the Summers promotional season kicks in. Revised estimates have tighter supplies until the end of the month. 
CITRUS- Navel production is almost finished but Valencia’ssizing and flavor profile are quickly improving and the market is steady.

ASPARAGUS- Limited Production continues from the West Coast and  Peru  has kept market significantly active .  Production areas in  Canada and coastal Baja in coming weeks will  help improve supplies and reduce demand pressure.

LEAF LETTUCE-   Romaine  production continues to be heavy with mostly good quality although fringe and tipburn along with mildew continue to be present. Green and Red leaf  supplies have been sufficient with a wide range inquality as well. Local East Coast supplies also are contributing to lessen the demand out West.

CARROTS-  Carrot production has been steady but with slightly smaller sizing.  The market is firm with good demand.

BROCCOLI- Salinas and Santa Maria production continues to be steady  but on the lighter side.  Quality has been good with production heaviest to crowns. Strong export demand continues to keep pressure on the market to remain active and limits the shippers ability to pack bunch broccoli.
Supplies look to be steady for the next couple weeks.   

CAULIFLOWER-  Production has leveled and the market firmed.   Salinasand Santa Maria Valley are in full production with excellent quality although continued windy conditions have contributed to a few bruising anddiscoloration issues. 

ARTICHOKES- Artichokes production on the preferred Green Globe variety has given way to other globe varieties and its’ predominant  large sizingalthough light demand overall has kept prices low.  

CELERY-   Better supplies on larger sizes have started to allow the market to ease . Higher freight rates have also contributed to lighten demand. Transition back to Salinas is expected to begin by the weekend but will once again bring back quality issues which will likely limit availability and strengthen the market once again.

BELL PEPPERS- Production  in the California desert continues to produce excellent quality.  Green sizing will be heaviest to XLarge and Jumbo. The market firmed up with additional East Coast demand but that looks to be easing as Eastern bells have started to rebound.  Red and Yellowshave started with better volume and will improve daily. Look for additional supplies with the warm desert temperatures.

STRAWBERRIES- Production continues from  Watsonville/Salinas and Santa Maria. Mostly good  quality with some berries having issues of bruising,bronzing and misshapen mostly due to  gusty winds but vary by variety. The market continues to be firm on good fruit but the overall market appears to beeasing . Better sizing and quality will continue from Salinas/ Watsonville.Stems are also available but with a wide range in the sizing of the fruit not all shippers have the ability to pack stems.  Raspberries production and qualityhave increased and the market has adjusted slightly. Blackberries supplies and quality  continue to be limited.   
GRAPES-   Production from Mexico is increasing rapidly and the market has started to adjust. California desert production has also increased . Quality has been excellent with good sizing and flavor profile. Production from the Central Valley shippers will start early by the end of the month.  The overlap should make for good promotional pricing.

MEMORIAL DAY

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With the official kick-off to Summer season , Memorial Day is time to honor the people who have made it possible to enjoy our freedom. In the produce world seasonal fruits along with staple veg items and berries will continue to be abundant.

Weather in the West continues to be forecast for mostly mild temperatures but consistent windy conditions continue to plague the entire West Coast. Temperaturesalong the coast are expected to be near normal this week but jump above normal the following week. Longer term forecast calls for cooling with occasional thundershowers.The Desert and Central Valley have similar forecast with greater potential forthunderstorms early next week.. California Coast norms 69/49 . The  Inland Valley norms 82-85/53-58 and The Desert  norms 98/64. 

Transportation rates rose again throughout the week and are expected to continueheading higher. Limited trucks and increased fruit has kept rates firm. Look for rates to continue to climb as we approach the Summer season.  Plan ahead for best value and service.

LETTUCE-  Salinas production is in full gear. Quality is good butcontinued gusty winds have caused some fringe and tipburn with occasional mildew.  Supplies are expected to lessen slightly and the market could firmearly next month. 

CITRUS- Navel production is winding  down and most shippershave started to offer Valencia’s. Sizing profile should quickly improve whileflavor profile will take a few additional weeks.

ASPARAGUS- Limited Production continues from all regions Salinas, Stockton, Washington and  Peru  has kept market significantly active andelevated.  Production areas in upper Midwest and Canada have been delayed by late Spring cold temperatures and will  help keep the market strong heading into Summer. 

LEAF LETTUCE-   Romaine  production continues to be heavy with mostly good quality although fringe and tipburn along with mildew have increased .Green and Red leaf  supplies have been sufficient with a wide range in qualityas well.
 
CARROTS-  Carrot production has been steady but with slightly smaller sizing.  The market is firm with good demand.

BROCCOLI- Production has shifted fully to Salinas and Santa Maria.  Quality has been good with production heaviest to crowns. Strong export demand continues to keep pressure on the market to remain active and limits the shippers ability to pack bunch broccoli. Supplies look to be steady for the next couple weeks.   

CAULIFLOWER-  Production has leveled and the market firmed.   Salinasand Santa Maria Valley are in full production with excellent quality although continu
ed windy conditions have contributed to a few bruising anddiscoloration issues. 

ARTICHOKES- Artichokes production on the preferred Green Globe variety has given way to other globe varieties and its’ predominant  large sizingalthough light demand overall has kept prices low.  

CHERRIES-  California Cherry production is in full swing although cooler than expected temperatures have revised the outlook from a bumper crop to asufficient one. Bing production should begin to peak over the next couple weeks. Supplies will be available for the next few weeks before transitioning to the Northwest region.

BELL PEPPERS- Production  in the California desert continues to produce excellent quality.  Green sizing will be heaviest to XLarge and Jumbo. The market firmed up with additional East Coast demand but that looks to be easing as Eastern bells have started to rebound.  Red and Yellowshave started with better volume and will improve daily. Look for additional supplies with the warm desert temperatures although the market may remain active if Eastern Bells continue to be limited.

STRAWBERRIES- Production continues from  Watsonville/Salinas and Santa Maria. Excellent quality has given way to some berries with issues of bruising, bronzing and misshapen mostly due to  gusty winds but vary byvariety. The market continues to be firm on good fruit but the overall market appears to be easing . Continued strong post holiday promotions  are needed to keep the market steady as availability could improve as the week progresses but cooler than expected temperatures due to wind chill  continue it will keep fruit in check. Stems are also available but with a wide range in the sizing of the fruit not all shippers have the ability to pack stems.  Raspberries production and quality have increased and the market has adjusted slightly.Blackberries supplies and quality  continue to be limited.   
GRAPES-   Production from Mexico is increasing rapidly and the market has started to adjust. California desert production has also increased . Quality has been excellent with good sizing and flavor profile.

CELERY-  Seeder pressure continues to  lessen resulting in better quality. Better supplies on larger sizes have now started to allow the market to ease. Higher freight rates have also contributed to lighten demand. Transition back to Salinas is expected to begin early June but will once again bring back quality issues which will likely limit availability and strengthen the market once again.

Happy Memorial Day !!

GROWING FOR YOU

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Joining the team of Produce West , Larry Burk brings a dynamic energy and a sophisticated understanding of production agricultural marketing.  Larry previously worked at CH Robinson where he was instrumental in the formation of their Monterey division when CHR  bought out the highly successful produce procurement business Food Source in which Larry was a managing partner. We welcome Larry and look forward to “Growing our business for YOU” 

 

Weather forecast for The West continues  mostly sunny and warm throughout the state.Temperatures are expected to be near normal for the next 3 weeks with a slight chance of showers early next week. Only the desert is expected to have above normal temps.California Coast norms 68/46-50 . The Southern Inland Valley norms 80/52 and The Desert  norms 94/60. 

 

Transportation rates rose slightly throughout the week and are expected to continueheading higher into next week. Limited trucks due to Holidays and increased fruit has kept rates firm. Look for rates to continue to climb as we approach the Summer season.  Plan ahead for best value and service.

ASPARAGUS- Limited Production from Central Mexico hasSalinas and Stockton as the primary production areas until the coastal Baja region of Mexico starts in a couple weeks. Supplies continue to fall short ofdemand with reduced domestic production. Additional production areas inupper Midwest and Canada will provide some relief but the market is  expected be strong for the balance of the month..

LETTUCE-  Salinas production is in full gear. Quality is excellent with good promotional volume.  Most quality issues have diminished. Color and texture have improved dramatically over the past week. Supplies are expected to be plentiful for the balance of the month.

LEAF LETTUCE-   Romaine  production continues to be heavy with mostly good quality although occasional Blister and discoloration are still present .Green and Red leaf  supplies have been sufficient with good quality. Continue to monitor quality reports daily to ensure best possible arrivals.


CAULIFLOWER-  Production finally picked up after stalling for most of the Spring.  Salinas and Santa Maria Valley are in full production with excellent quality and promotional volume.

BROCCOLI- Production has shifted fully to Salinas and Santa Maria.  Quality has been excellent with the ability to produce ALL style of packs.

BELL PEPPERS- Production has started in the California desert.  Greensizing will be heaviest to XLarge and Jumbo. Red and Yellows have started onlight volume and will improve daily. Production in Florida has been hampered by heavy rains which has kept pressure on the market.

CHERRIES-  California Cherry production  has begun with excellent quality.Good weather is anticipated to help provide a bumper crop.  Supplies will increase rapidly over the next couple weeks and the market will adjust but withsignificant promotions in place the market will  firm once it finds its’ equilibrium.

CITRUS- Navel production continues with good volume andgood flavor and sizing profiles. Packout is heaviest towards fancy, large sizes but there continues to be deals available on choice packs.  Production on Navels has peaked and a few shippers have started Valencia’s.

GRAPES-   Supplies of Reds have improved but the Green varietals  continue to be limited.  Quality continues to be sporadic from the southern Chilean district. Production from Mexico will start later than normal but should have good supplies by late May followed closely by California desert.

STRAWBERRIES- Production continues from all three districts,Watsonville, Santa Maria and Oxnard. Quality has improved in Watsonville with most Oxnard fruit being kept close to market and priced accordingly.  Wildfires near Oxnard have further impacted supplies and quality to due falling ash.  The market has steadied on  better quality fruit  and with significant demand  for Mother’s Day promotions  the market has continued to be steady.  Supplies should be good for promotions through the month of May.  Good supplies of stems are also available.  Raspberries continue to be in short supply although production and quality will increase next week.Blackberries supplies are limited  with a firming market.

CELERY-  Seeders continue to drive the market with reduced sizing and overall yields. Larger sizes will command a premium but all sizes are in high demand.  The quality issues are expected to continue for 2-3 weeks.

CARROTS-  Carrot production has been steady but with slightly smaller sizing.  The market is firm with steady demand.

ARTICHOKES- Artichokes production  has peaked especially the preferred Green Globe variety in Castroville. Additional globe varieties are still available.Most shippers continue to actively pursue promotions on medium and smaller sizes and lower pricing reflects. Quality is excellent.  

BRING IT ON

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There is  no shortage of items to choose from this time of year. Most Veg commodities are in full production and Spring Veg is starting to increase as well. Add in all the Fruit categories either peaking or just getting underway and the promotional opportunities are endless.

Weather forecast for The West calls for mostly sunny and warm throughout the state.Temperatures are expected to be near normal for the next 3 weeks. Only the desert is expected to have above normal temps. CaliforniaCoastnorms 68/46-50 . TheSouthernInland Valleynorms 79/52 and The Desert  norms 92/58.

Transportation rates rose slightly throughout the week and are expected to continueheading higher into next week. Limited trucks due to Holidays and increased fruit has kept rates firm. Look for rates to continue to climb as we approach the Summer season.  Plan ahead for best value and service.

CELERY-  Seeders continue to drive the market with reduced sizing and overall yields. Larger sizes will command a premium although the market on  all sizes has strengthened.  The quality issues are expected to continue for 3-4 weeks.

ASPARAGUS- Limited Production from Central Mexico has Salinas andStockton as the primary production areas until the coastal Baja region of Mexico starts next month. The market  strengthened  significantly and will continue to firm with fewer supplies available. Most shippers have started to pack exclusively 11lbs.  Promotional supplies are not expected to be available for the next month.

GRAPES-   Supplies of Reds are expected to improve but the Green varietals  continue to be limited.  Quality continues to be sporadic from the southern Chilean district. Production from Mexico will start later than normal but should have good supplies by late May.

LETTUCE-  Salinas production is starting to improve as well as quality which has led to a softening of the market. There continues to be wide ranging quality from shipper to shipper daily. Rib Blight, Blister and discoloration  continue to be present but lessening daily. Color and texture should start to improve next week .

LEAF LETTUCE-   Romaine  production continues to be heavy with wide range of quality. Blister and discoloration are still present. Green and Red leaf supplies have been sufficient with good quality. Continue to monitor qualityreports daily to ensure best possible arrivals.

CAULIFLOWER-  Production continues to stall in Salinas and Santa MariaValley. The market  ended this past week firm but could finally ease  next week as production picks up in the North . Quality has mostly been good with occasional spotting on arrivals.

BROCCOLI- Production has shifted fully to Salinas and Santa Maria. As Central Valley production has finished till the Fall and cooler than expected weather  tightened supplies and the market firmed.  Warmer weather next week should help bring on supplies and steady the market.  Quality has been mostly good.

BELL PEPPERS- Production has started in the California desert.  Greensizing will be heaviest to XLarge and Jumbo.  Production from Mexico will continue to decline. Red and Yellows are scheduled to start by late next week.

CITRUS- Navel production continues with good volume and goodflavor and sizing profiles. Packout is heaviest towards fancy, large sizes but there continues to be deals available on choice packs.  Production on Navels has peaked and a few shippers are ready to start Valencia’s.

STRAWBERRIES- Production continues from all three districts,Watsonville, Santa Maria and Oxnard. Quality has improved mostly in Watsonville with most Oxnard fruit being kept close to market and priced accordingly.  The market has steadied on  better quality fruit  and with significant demand  for Mother’s Day promotions  the market will continue to be firm throughout the week.  There are still good opportunities to promote through the month of May.  Good supplies of stems are alsoavailable.  Raspberries continue to be in short supply although production and quality will increase as the weather warms.  Blackberries supplies are improving as well as quality.

CARROTS-  Carrot production has been steady but with slightly smaller sizing.  The market is firm with steady demand.

ARTICHOKES- Artichokes production  has peaked especially the preferred Green Globe variety in Castroville. Additional globe varieties are still available.Most shippers continue to actively pursue promotions and lower pricingreflects. Quality is excellent. Sizing will start to peak on medium sizes and willeventually give way to the smaller sizes before overall production slows.

CHERRIES-  California Cherry production is on schedule for an early May start with light availability next week.  Promotional volume will be available in a couple weeks and should last through the first week of June . Good weather is anticipated to help provide a bumper crop. Schedule promotions now while supplies last.