Lettuce 

Production continues from Salinas , Santa Maria, Huron and now  Yuma .  A  few  shippers  are currently overlapping production areas but most are relegated to only one district.  Quality is comparable  in most locations  but  Huron has the slight edge  with Yuma  likely to make the most improvement in coming weeks .  Salinas quality has peaked and will likely show some rib discoloration on arrivals. Weights , Color and Sizing continue to vary in all shipping districts.  The market  is mostly  steady with  good weather forecast for the next week allowing supplies to increase slightly before leveling out  as shippers transition fully into their Winter home.  Quality from  Las Cruces , NM  has been very nice and will continue through mid  November.   Take advantage of cost savings in freight and fresher production location.

 

Mix Leaf

Production continues from Salinas and Santa Maria Valley’s as well as Yuma for a handful of shippers.  Demand has gradually improved especially from the East as regional production areas finish for the season. Most shippers   will transition to the desert  beginning next week   Quality has been good although some discoloration has been showing up on arrival especially after this past weekends  rain. Continue to  shop for color and lighter weights to avoid problems.

 

Brussels Sprouts

Heavy production continues  from Salinas with  light production starting up  in Mexico . Demand  has been good  with many value added packs  contributing to am improving  market despite the excess supplies although there are still deals available for volume orders.  Quality has  been very nice and should continue to improve demand  through the traditionally strong Holiday season.

 

Celery

This market has been gaining momentum over the past 2 weeks.  With Michigan product dried up, buyers are looking to the west coast and gathering up what they can.  Thanksgiving pull will start towards the latter half of next week and shippers are preparing inventory to keep up with demand.  Supplies are lighter this week as they stock up. Expect strong markets through the month of November. Quality is nice and is expected to continue with mild weather and minimal rain in the forecasted for the next two weeks.

 

Broccoli

Supplies remain limited as the Salinas season begins to wind down and most of the Home Grown product on the East Coast and Canada finishes up.  Markets will remain at current trading levels into next week.  Production out of Mexico will continue to increase but at a slower rate than expected.  Mexico will not be in full swing until the middle of December.

 

Cauliflower

Shippers will be looking to make deals on all sizes to finish up the week.  There is good supplies available in Salinas and Santa Maria.  Get with your Produce West representative and run you offers by us.

 

Artichokes

Steady  production from  Salinas  is expected to continue with improving demand .  Predominate sizing will be the larger sizes with very good quality.   Thornless or seeded varieties continue to dominate the category  with the preferred Heirloom or Green Globe  not scheduled til the Spring.

Strawberries

The majority of growers had to strip plants again today as the Monday stripping did not completely clear the fields of the pin rot problems caused by the weekend rains. We had light variable rains on Monday afternoon which contributed to today’s quality field issues. The rains we had 10 days ago of less than a 1/2 inch , interrupted shipments for 3 to 4 days. The 1/1/2 inches of moisture we received over the weekend will certainly effect quality and suppress volume well into next week.  Shippers will to continue to ship to less “picky” customers in hopes the strawberries will arrive in the best condition possible given the quality issues we have been dealt. Otherwise, diverting to the freezers may be the best option from a financial standpoint.  Currently, there is no rain in the forecast for the next 10 days in the California growing regions.the volume out of McAllen has been very limited, but we are expecting better numbers to start crossing next week.

Organic Strawberries 

You can expect the organic berries to not bounce back for 2 to 3 weeks as they are virtually non-existent due to our recent wet weather.  Typically, the Organic berries don’t recover as fast as conventional berries, so we are not surprised that we will be in short supply in the short term.

Raspberries 

Volumes were projected to be good, but cooler weather has slowed down growth.  Even with the fruit being grown under hoops we have limited cases of wet and leaky berries.The main production areas are Baja, Central Mexico, Oxnard and Santa Maria. Very limited supplies out of Watsonville. Golden & Sunshine Raspberries will wind down over the next few weeks.

Blackberries

The main production areas are Baja, Central Mexico, Oxnard and Santa Maria. Supplies out of these combined areas will be plentiful next week. McAllen, Texas will see increased supplies for the remainder of the month. Organic Blackberries will decline in volume and not pick up until the new year.

Blueberries

Estimates for next week are forecasted to be higher and will continue until the end of the month. Quality has been excellent and we have been buying with in a wide price range. The main production areas are Baja, Chile, Central Mexico, with limited supplies out of California.  Organic Blueberries are very limited and expected to light thru the end of the year.

 

Cantaloupes

Supplies are light, as the Westside is history and the Caribbean is 2-4 weeks off. Nogales is going in a moderate way but few domestic users want Mexican cantaloupes. There are only a few players in the Yuma-Phoenix deal and they are left to cover the lion’s share of current needs. Demand has been typically slow as consumers start looking for autumn and winter fruits.  Sizes have become more evenly distributed, but with retail demand centered on 9s, they remain snug.

Prices finished steady. Next week we see little change. We see little change, in fact, coming until the Caribbean deal going.

 

Honeydews

Like with cantaloupes, the northern area are finished. Caribbean is a ways off.  There are fewer dews planted in Yuma-Phoenix this year, but there are plenty in Mexico. Demand is typically slow for this off season product.  Market was therefore weaker in Mexico & slightly weaker domestically, as typically, Mexican honeydews are more acceptable to US consumer than the cantaloupes. Market should remain dull and uneventful next week.

 

Lettuce 

Transition to the Central Valley has begun for a handful of shippers with Salinas  still producing significant volume.  Quality continues to vary widely with Weight , Color and Sizing.  The market  is steady with an edge towards going higher with the threat of rain this weekend.   Huron quality has started out similar to Salinas but has the potential to improve rapidly while Salinas  quality will only diminish through the transition to  the desert later next  week.  Quality from  Las Cruces , NM  has been very nice and will continue through mid  November.

 

Mix Leaf

Production continues from Salinas and Santa Maria Valley’s.  Demand has improved especially from the East as regional production areas finish for the season. Most shippers  do not transition leaf  to  the Central  Valley  and  will transition to the desert  beginning next week for a few shippers with the majority  transitioning  the following week.  Quality has been good although some discoloration showing up on arrivals especially anything oversized and stripped down.  Continue to  shop for color and lighter weights to avoid problems.

 

Brussels Sprouts

Heavy production continues  from Salinas with  light production starting up  in Mexico .   Demand  has been good  with many value added packs  contributing to a relatively steady market  although there are still deals available for volume orders.  Quality has  been very nice and should continue to improve demand  through the traditionally strong Holiday season

 

Celery

A much stronger market overall this week.  As Michigan production comes to a close, the focus is now out west, putting pressure on coastal shippers.  Salinas and Santa Maria are the current growing areas, and Oxnard is scheduled to begin next week.  Salinas production will continue through late November.  Shippers are stockpiling product as they prepare for thanksgiving demand, strengthening the market.  Expect strong markets through the month of November. Quality has been nice.

 

Broccoli

Demand has remained relatively unchanged this week.  If the forecasted rains come to fruition we could see an increase in price going into the weekend.  Quality and availability are improving out of Central Mexico and this might be the location you want to load out of over the next few days.

 

Cauliflower

The market has a slight uptick and we could see higher prices going into next week.  Quality has been very good but forecasted rain could change the quality of product harvested middle of next week.  Check with your Produce West representatives on where best loading location may be for end of week and going into next week.

 

Artichokes

Steady  production from  Salinas  is expected to continue with improving demand .  Predominate sizing will be the larger sizes with very good quality.   Thornless or seeded varieties continue to dominate the category  with the preferred Heirloom or Green Globe  not scheduled til the Spring.

 

Strawberries

The berry deal is going to virtually non existent over the next few weeks. Shippers are allocating fruit one pallet at a time. Some shippers are shipping under FOB acceptance final guidelines. In many cases if product is rejected by a customer they are stating they will not ship that customer again until the weather and quality issues have stabilized. Below is a e-mail from a berry shipper we use out of Santa Maria.

So we now have our demand exceeds market.  The problem is now that we have it, quality is fair at best overall and volumes are way down and will be for at least the next 2-3 weeks. We are all still finding pin rot and other issues stemming from the last rain we had over a week ago, which is creating mold and decay on arrivals for shipping beyond 2 days, and you’ll also notice for the most part, the bruising isn’t too bad and overall the fruit is really firm.

Central Mexico is trickling across fruit, but most fruit is not worth shipping out of Texas at the moment.  We will start having some fruit crossing next week but we are not taking any orders against it yet to buffer any issues we may see with our supply out here. Hearing some guys actually finding decay in their fields in Oxnard as well already.

The rain on the horizon for California looks to potentially bring 1-1.5″ in total which could be very damaging.  There are also smaller rain cells following this large one on Thursday/Friday which could prohibit getting in the fields and cleaning everything up.  Quality will continue to be fair at best for now.

 

Cantaloupes

The northern areas finished up completely with only one shipper peddling out his last few boxes early this week.  Yuma and Phoenix was thus the main source of supply, along with Nogales which is no favorable for domestic distribution.  Sizes in the desert deals have been running small but began to skew toward the larger end toward the weekend.  Demand was adequate which drove prices up as the week started.  However higher prices began to slow demand a bit, keeping the market stable as the week wound down. Off shore melons are still about a month away.  Heading into next week we expect supplies to remain adequate and more 9s becoming more available. Demand should be slowed by high prices and by the arrival of colder weather in most of the country.  Prices should slip accordingly next week, although moderately.

 

Honeydews

The north finished. Nogales was going and trading about 2.00-3.00 under the domestic markets.  Mexican dews are more accepted than their lopes. Sizes were pretty much evenly split between 5s and 6s, with few jbo 5s and some 8s. Offshore dews are about month off.  Next week we look for demand to slow as melons become less seasonable.  Prices should decline accordingly, but not drastically

 

Watermelon

The market is in somewhat of a free fall with  volume coming in through Nogales and McAllen. Weather in California will further contribute to the market slide. Some growers have stopped harvest for now. Look for pricing to stabilize  by late next week . Produce West has Watermelons in McAllen and Nogales for your winter needs.

 

Green Beans

The East Coast Green Bean Market has dropped a few dollars this week and will continue to do so through next week . Don’t expect the market to drop too far though. Weather from the last hurricane reduced volume from many growers. Look for an evening out of prices and a slight tightening of the market going into the Thanksgiving pull.  Produce West is loading Green Beans in both Georgia and Florida.

 

 

 

Lettuce 

Transition to the Central Valley for a few shippers has  begun this week which will create overlapping supplies for those suppliers. Most shippers avoid the Fall transition and choose to extend their season until the desert transition next month.  The overlap will create an increase in production and will likely depress the market until demand shifts fully to the West. Quality continues to vary in Salinas and Huron with size, shape and color but overall healthy.   Additional growing areas in Las Cruces, NM  are underway as well shipping good quality with reduced transportation cost.

 

Mix Leaf

Similar to Iceberg  a few  shippers will transition  to the Central  Valley but the majority will continue in Salinas and Santa Maria Valley’s until the desert transition in November.  Quality has been mostly good  with varying defects. Demand  also continues to vary waiting for the East coast local production to wind down.  Sporadic buying from the east temporarily elevated prices but production is starting to ramp up in California in anticipation of better demand giving buyers affordable options.

 

Brussels Sprouts

Supplies continue  to increase as most growers are well into their freezer production which directly affect  fresh market  supplies.  Much improved quality and yields , ongoing harvest from Canada and early  production from  Mexico will all contribute to a healthy supply for the Fall season.  The market is slowly adjusting but will be offset by the high demand  associated with the Holidays.

 

Celery

Michigan production is coming to an end. The past few months have been productive for Midwest and eastern growing regions, keeping markets sluggish.  With production slowing in Michigan we will expect demand to continue increasing in California.  Oxnard production is expected to start at the end of this month, which will overlap Salinas production until mid-November.  Markets could get very strong by the beginning of November and continue through the Thanksgiving pull.  Quality remains nice industry wide.

 

Broccoli

The week started off with lighter supplies but the light rain we had over the weekend and the warmer weather expected for the latter part of the week should increase supplies.  Prices will trend lower as we finish the week.  Mexico will continue to increase harvest volume as the month progresses filling the void from lack of homegrown supplies on the East Coast.  Quality in all areas has been good.  Nice tight domes and good green color.

 

Cauliflower

Higher harvest volume is expected to finish the week and going into next week.  Markets will decline over the next few days.  Sizing is flip flopping from the last few weeks as there will be more 9 size and less 16 size available.  Quality is nice, bright white color and full green jackets.

 

Artichokes

The market continues  to be mostly depressed with  light demand. As the weather cools  around the country look for improved demand  and  higher pricing.  Quality continues to be excellent with most supplies being the thornless hybrid varieties.  The preferred Heirloom or Green Globe variety will only be available in limited supplies  until  early Spring.

 

Strawberries

The rains from this past weekend in the California grower regions will certainly have a negative effect on quality. Expect soft fruit and prorated orders for the next week as growers were forced to strip plants and spraying for Mildew last Monday and Tuesday. There will be a wide range of pricing as quality defects such as bruising, soft shoulder, overripe and white shoulder are the norm right now. Mexico will begin shipments as early as this weekend. Early quality reports have been favorable .

Raspberries

There will be an increase in production this week as the Central Mexico numbers increase. Supplies will be promotable next week.

Blackberries

Though Central Mexico production has been challenging do to varying weather conditions, demand has been off, so we expect steady supplies on fair demand through next week. Blackberries have begun to cross out of McAllen as well.

Blueberries

Currently the growing regions are Baja,Chile,Central Mexico, California, Peru & Argentina.  Volume is expected to ramp up over the coming weeks and suppliers will be looking to promote.

 

Cantaloupes

The Westside is done and there are fewer producers going in the desert than normal. Sizes are skewing to 12s and 15s this week but there could be more 9s next week.  Demand is going into off-season mode as is supplies. We look for larger sizes to open active and higher Monday the calm and fade by midweek

 

Honeydews

Supplies are tight and the market is higher as the desert is just ramping up and northern areas are done. Nogales has taken some steam out of trading as they have ample supplies. Next week the desert should pick up production and the market should be weaker

 

 

Watermelon

Seedless watermelon are for the most part done domestically. Imports out of Mexico are beginning to increase with crossings in Nogales and McAllen. Sizes are mostly 45s with  a few 36s and 45s. Volume will increase towards the end of next week and market should be weakening. Produce West and its supplier Peacock will have melons amiable daily in McAllen.  We are currently packing bins and cartons.

 

East Coast Veg

Produce West will have a supply of East Coast Veg available . We have started handpicked green beans out of Georgia and will transition into Florida this week. We will also have from Florida , Zucchini, Yellow squash ,  and Pickles . All will be available in carton or 24oz bags. FS upon request.

Lettuce 

Improved but intermittent demand continues  while supplies are shifting among shippers  they are overall steady and  are keeping prices reasonable. Quality continues to be mostly good with a wide range of  color, shape and size. Most shippers are on top of their fields with normal forecast projected for September. The direction of the market will mostly be affected by local , homegrown production on the East  Coast which has experienced issues related to high humidity.
Mix Leaf

Production continues to be steady with increasing demand allowing the market  to move off the bottom.  Quality is starting to vary widely with issues  from mildew , fringe burn and insect damage along with seeder seen scattered around the Salinas and Santa Maria valley’s. Weather in the East has start to affect condition of the “local , homegrown” which  has influenced demand out West.  Most shippers are currently on schedule with their leaf program.

 

Brussels Sprouts

The market has  peaked with supplies coming almost exclusively from the Central Coast of California.  Quality has been excellent with a return of the cooler more normal nighttime temperatures this Summer.

​ Production has been  increasing and  will continue to ramp up through November when overflow freezer production ​will  contribute to an abundant supply matching an extremely high demand period.  The crop  appears healthier than past years.

 

Celery

Heavy production continues in Michigan, as well as the west coast.  Markets are still very soft due to high volume industry wide.  Quality remains nice and shippers are looking to move product.   Expect similar markets and conditions through next week.

 

Broccoli

Market has a chance to get slightly better as we head into next week.  Cooler weather along with lighter harvest estimates for the upcoming weeks will limit supplies.  Production out of Central Mexico has dwindled as heavy rains have all but stopped harvest and affected quality.  Short cut crowns have seen a slight uptick and prices should continue to gradually increase next week as well.

 

Cauliflower

Market is very depressed.  Shippers have been looking to make deals all week and looks as though that will continue into next week.  If you have any needs on flower please run your offers by us.

 

Artichokes

Increased activity with retail promotions seem to have improved demand allowing prices to  firm on larger sizes  while medium sizes continue to be affordable.  Quality is  good  and should remain through September  Take advantage of a good  Summer time  alternative.

Green Onions 

​Production  from Mexico has bottomed out and should start to improve with additional growing areas and improved weather.  The market ​currently peaked should start to recede although maintaining an elevated ceiling.

 

Strawberries

Demand continues to be stronger on the fall fruit. The newer crop fruit is averaging 16 to 18 ct. The field inspections are showing a more firm berry with less bruising upon shipment. While the early spring varieties are running 22 to 24 ct.  The Portola and Monterey varieties have been the strongest out of the Santa Maria area.  The Santa Maria Area is expecting Sunny, with partly cloudy skies for the next week highs in the 70’s and low in the 50’s.  Expect demand to remain over sluggish overall thru mid week next week.

Cantaloupes

It’s been a long slow summer of underwhelming demand and disappointing prices for cantaloupes.  This week we had some extra activity and toward the weekend leading to less dealing.  Next week see little occurring to perk up demand. Supplies look relatively steady, but sizes are seeming to skew more towards 9s.  We see market remaining steady at 6.00-6.50 on 9s and 12s with some dealing on slower mid-week trading days.

 

Honeydews

Little has changed for several weeks. Fair demand and ample supplies seems to have kept the market rock steady at 4.00-4.50 on peak sizes (5’s & 6s).  8s and 9s have traded for less when shippers find themselves with extra supplies. Demand next week could perk up a bit as September usually increases consumers’ interest in honeydews.  Supplies look to change little. We look for a steady to slightly higher market next week with less dealing.

Note: Westside deal looks to end during the first week of October.

 

Lettuce 

Production continues to be steady with intermittent demand.  Quality continues to be mostly good with a  wide range of  color, size and shape. Most shippers are on top of their fields and are poised to  push the market higher with the expected surge in demand from institutional back to school business.  The ash from the area wildfire seems to have subsided and should decrease further as the fire is contained.
Mix Leaf

Production continues to be steady with a lack of demand keeping prices depressed.  Quality is good with some fringe burn and insect damage seen scattered around the Salinas and Santa Maria valley. Weather in the East may start to affect condition  of the “local , homegrown” which may influence demand out West.  Most shippers are currently on schedule with their leaf program.

 

Brussels Sprouts

The market has  peaked with supplies coming almost exclusively from the Central Coast of California.  Quality has been excellent with a return of the cooler more normal nighttime temperatures this Summer.

​Production should start increasing now through November when overflow freezer production ​will  contribute to an abundant supply matching an extremely high demand period.  The crop  appears healthier than past years.

 

Celery

Market remains steady and most shippers are looking to move product.  Michigan is still producing good volume and harvests are still very heavy out west.  More volume on large sizes. Shippers are listening to offers as they need to move product.

 

Broccoli

Market is steady with little change expected as we move into next week.  Quality is very good.  Nice green color and smooth domes from both Santa Maria and Salinas.

 

Cauliflower

Good supplies and limited demand has caused prices to decrease this week.  Shippers are looking to make deals so run your offers by us.

 

Artichokes

Heavy production with  light demand has lead to good  buying opportunities on all sizes.  Quality is  good  and should remain through August.  Take advantage of a good  Summer time  alternative.

​Asparagus 

Production from  Central Mexico is winding down  leaving mostly offshore supplies from Peru as the main source.  The market  rose sharply but has since leveled  with some shippers still offering discounts  on offsize Mexican product.

Strawberries

The New crop or Fall fruit is moving briskly and we are now looking at a two tier market between the fall and the summer fruit.  Weather related issues will continue to effect the summer crop as soft fruit with occasional bruising has been reported at the field level. Counts will continue to small than the fall fruit. The average count this week has been ranging 22 to 24 count, with some growers picking even smaller fruit. The fall fruit is ranging 16 to 18 count with some light bruising and white shoulder being reported. The weather forecast for next week is status quo as we will continue to have partly cloudy and smoke filled skies with highs in the low 70’s and the nights dipping to the low 50’s.

Raspberries

Production will continue on a downtrend and fruit will become scarce next week due to the continued cool weather and less hearty fruit. Central Mexico will be ramping up production towards the end of September. “Sunshine” raspberries will have an increase in volume as we move into September. We expect the peak in volume to be the 3rd week in September.

Blackberries

Lighter volume is expected next week.  The berry six has been bigger than normal for this time of the year and this has also contributed to the lighter supplies.

Blueberries

the Pacific northwest is expected to taper off as their season comes to a close.  Expect supplies to be tight out of the Baja and California area for September.  Look for suppliers to pack more 4.4 oz. than 6oz. during this time period.

 

Watermelon

The market is looser this week due to lack of business. This should turn around next week with the Labor Day pull. Northeast suppliers are winding down and should finish by the end of next week . Produce west will have seedless watermelons out of Indiana and Texas. Mexico production will follow.

Lettuce 

Production continues to be steady with intermittent demand.  Quality continues to be mostly good with a  wide range of  color, size and shape. Most shippers are on top of their fields and are poised to  push the market higher with the expected surge in demand from institutional back to school business.  The ash from the area  wildfire seems to be minimal and should decrease further as the fire is contained.
Mix Leaf

Production continues to be steady with a lack of demand keeping prices depressed.  Quality is good with some fringe burn and insect damage seen scattered around the Salinas and Santa Maria valley. If the Iceberg market reacts it may help the leaf market but  supplies appear sufficient  for the next few  weeks.

 

Brussels Sprouts

The market has firmed​ with supplies coming almost exclusively from the Central Coast of California.  Quality has been excellent with a return of the cooler more normal  night time local  temperatures.  Production should remain steady until October when freezer production ​ramps up.

 

Celery

Steady markets continue throughout the industry. Good quality remains the industry standard and large sizing seems to be in greater supply.  Small sizes are slightly more expensive, with a $2-$3 spread between sizes.  Shippers are looking to move product and are listening to offers. This should continue through next week and should begin tightening up as we near the end of the month.

 

Broccoli

Good availability for the remainder of the week.  Supplies from all over the country have filled the pipelines.  There is availability out of California, Mexico, Maine and Canada.  Overall quality from the regions has been good.  Get with your Produce West representative and set up some ad’s for the next few weeks.

 

Cauliflower

Supplies are starting to lighten up as East Coast demand has picked up the last few days.  Weather interruptions with Canadian product has turned the attention back to the West Coast.  Markets will get slightly stronger going into nest week, especially on 9 size flower.

 

Artichokes

Heavy production with  light demand has lead to good  buying opportunities on all sizes.  Quality is  good  and should remain through August.  Take advantage of a good Summertime  alternative.

Strawberries

Markets are still tighter this week and expected to be the same for the following week. Cool weather on the coast has slowed growth and the berries are slow to ripen. Smaller sized berries have been reported which is typical for this time of year. Bruising is the most common issue reported which has been caused by recent muggy nights and high humidity.These factors mixed with high demand have limited supplies and strengthened markets..

Watermelons:

 

 

Cantaloupes

Cantaloupes finishes last week with the promise of better market as ads were in place.  But by Wednesday the market found itself struggling again, with ample supplies of hearty fruit and ad shipping over.  Demand other than the brief promotional period remained tepid at best. Thus the market was a bit lower with many deals being made below quoted levels. Supplies next week look to be unabated and demand without any promotional impetus looks to remain lackluster. We see the market as dull and steady.

 

Honeydews

Supplies were ample this week and even increased with the Sacramento area joining the pile. Fruit was good and there was no promotional activity. Next week little looks to change. The next time the market has a chance of improving would be closer to September when consumer interest normally improves and retailers look to promote. Like cantaloupes, we see steady prices with dull trading and some dealing

Lettuce 

Supplies have increased ​while demand has been variable causing the market to stall.  Overall quality has improved but continues with a wide range of size, shape and  color.  Temperatures this week are forecast to be mild and should keep supplies from becoming excessive. The wildfire in the area has settled some ash over most of the Salinas Valley and could cause quality issues such as tipburn.

 

Mix Leaf

Overall  demand continues to be weak with a heavy influence from the local , homegrown production in the Northeast. Ash from the local wildfire  continues to fall and may have an impact on  quality with increased tipburn and  ash settling into the heads.

 

 

Brussels Sprouts

The market has firmed​ with supplies coming almost exclusively from the Central Coast of California.  Quality has been excellent with a return of the cooler more normal  nighttime local  temperatures.

​Production should remain steady until October when freezer production ​ramps  up.

Celery

Good supplies this season industry wide.  There is better supply on large sized celery and shippers are looking to move product. Small size supplies are lighter, mostly due to the fact that the warmer weather is causing the plants to grow quickly and size up at a faster pace.  Quality remains very nice, with little or no problems to report.   We expect another week or two of flat markets and then better pricing as schools start up again nationwide.

 

 

Broccoli

Good availability for the remainder of the week.  Supplies from all over the country have filled the pipelines.  There is availability out of California, Mexico, Maine and Canada.  Overall quality from the regions has been good.  There has been reports of Maine product arriving with water spotting.  Get with your Produce West representative and set up some ad’s for the next few weeks.

 

Cauliflower

Supplies are ample and shippers are looking to make deals.  Quality has been very good.  It looks like we will have good availability through next week.

 

Artichokes

Heavy production with  light demand has lead to good  buying opportunities on all sizes.  Quality is  good  and should remain through August.  Take advantage of a good  Summer time  alternative.

Strawberries

Watermelons:

We are currently starting production in West Texas and Las Cruces . Expect both areas to be producing by 8/15 . We will also have some melons out of the NC area next week through the end of August. There are a lot of regional local melons around the country at this time. The market is all over the board depending on the region and has no real continuity at this time. Demand this week is very light but will increase as we draw closer to the Labor Day holiday.

 

​Asparagus 

Production from  Central Mexico is  winding down  leaving mostly offshore supplies from Peru as the main source.  The market is firming and looks to  go higher throughout the next few weeks.

 

Cantaloupes

Supplies remained ample this week, peaking on 9s with a goodly amount of 12s. 15s were also in decent supply. There was a variance between growers on supplies with varieties peaking at different times, but in the face of stubbornly lackluster demand, the market remained steady with below quoted deals abounding through Tuesday.  Promotions were in place for next week, the shipping for which started Wednesday. Some of those were on 12s which suddenly firmed up.  Thus prices on 12s rose midweek and on 9s prices firmed.  We see continued good production next week with robust demand thru mid week as ad shipping continues. By Thursday demand could slow and market could either retreat or stay steady with below quoted deals re-appearing.

 

Honeydews

Dull and steady as she goes is the only way to describe honeydews. Supplies stayed ample and continued to peak on 5s and 6s with jbo 5s and 8/9s being light. Demand yawned its way through the week. Next week, supplies should remain good and there seems to be nothing occurring to spur demand except perhaps for the higher cantaloupe market.  The following week the Sacramento area should kick in. Steady is the word for now and next week.

 

 

Lettuce

Moderate weather on the West Coast has helped quality and in turn yields have begun to improve as demand was stifled by last week’s sharp rise in pricing. Markets look to be correcting rapidly even though supplies are not overwhelming. Look for the market to steady by mid next week. Quality has improved but wide ranging size, shape and color along with mildew and insect pressure are still prevalent.

 

Mix Leaf

Romaine and Romaine Heart quality along with production has finally improved sufficiently to meet demand allowing the market to adjust. A few quality concerns remain with mildew and insect pressure but overall quality is improving daily. Look for the market to  steady next week as most growers reduce their acreage to

meet curtailed demand due to Homegrown, local production. Greenleaf and Red leaf continue to get pulled or pushed along for the ride.

 

Celery

Steady markets continue industry wide. We expect this to continue through next week as Michigan product is still producing good volume.  Good supplies out of Salinas and Santa Maria growing areas and quality is still very nice.

 

Green Onions

The market improved only slightly with decreases in production. Quality will continue to be fair as most growers have battled hot weather in Mexico the past couple weeks. Barring a significant increase in demand the market is likely only to improve marginally as supplies continue to trend downward, moderate temperatures forecast should help quality rebound in coming weeks

 

 

Broccoli

Broccoli out of Maine will start soon couple that with good supplies of all cuts  out of both Santa Maria and Salinas over the next 10 days will make for plenty of product. Quality has been very nice with tight domes and good

green color. Please run any Ad or daily order opportunities by us.

 

Cauliflower

Weather on the Central Coast of California has made for ideal growing conditions over the last week.  Good supplies of cauliflower are expected going into next week. Quality has been outstanding and even though there is product available from Canada for the East Coast markets, those buyers are still purchasing California product due to superior quality.

 

Artichokes

 

Steady production with light demand continues for most shippers. Quality is good but a lack of summer promotions has kept demand limited with most retailers concentrating on the summer fruits. As all sizes are plentiful consider pushing Artichokes as a mid-Summer grilling alternative.

 

Brussel Sprouts

 

Central California continues to be the main production area with good quality and yields. The market has eased off its’ seasonal high and should remain steady through the early summer.

 

Strawberries

 

There are still decent supplies around, with very few shippers prorating. Strawberry supplies have been a lot stronger towards the beginning of the week with the weekend being a little hard to find. Prices are starting to firm up this week and will continue into next week. Right now there is a lot smaller fruit and production is starting to slowly go down and expect to pick back up at the end of the month. Warmer weather is expected at the end of next week which should help relieve some of the demand.

 

Watermelon

We will have watermelon available from both Texas and Northern Georgia next week. Prices are softer after the

4th of July pull. We have good volume on all sizes and have carton mini 6s available as well. Produce West has

seedless 24/365. Contact your sales person to set up a program.

 

Cantaloupes

The desert has finished up for all intents and purposes, and the Westside is in full production mode.  The weekend and early week had a cool snap and yields were down.  At the same time there were some ad promotions set.  The market thus climbed early in the week, then calmed toward the weekend when deals were being made again below quotes prices. Sizes were split between regular 9s and 12s with Jbo 9s tight and 15s in light supplies. Next week we should see good production of 9s and 12s and new supplies of jbo 9s. Demand should be adequate and the market steady to slightly lower.

 

Honeydews:

The desert is essentially done and the Westside is in production, however there are not an overabundance of honeydews planted.  Sacramento area is about two weeks off.  Supplies where moderate.  Demand was moderate. Market was steady. Sizes peaked on 5s then 6s.  We look for little change next week with perhaps dealing below quotes more prevalent than this week.

Lettuce​​​

Moderate supplies  and continued  hesitant demand has kept downward pressure on FOBs. Quality has been  improving but still varies widely with irregular sizing,  insect pressure and  tipburn still  prevalent.  Supplies and quality could be affected with high temperatures in select hotter locations in the Salinas and  Santa Maria  Valleys this  week.
Mix Leaf

Hotter Temperatures in the  Valley have increased supplies while  demand  has  been easing slightly on Romaine.  Continued  increase in  local production areas will keep  downward pressure on the market.  Limited  local Homegrown  Romaine heart production will allow the market to stay strong  as  long as  California growers don’t convert excess romaine into hearts.   Green and  Redleaf   market continue to be sluggish

 

Celery

Oxnard production will be mostly finished by the end of this month and most of the production will be out of Salinas Valley growing areas.  Michigan production will be starting in mid July.  There is good volume this week and markets are sluggish.  Expect good volume through next week; we should see slightly better markets in the first half of July.  Good quality industry wide, although Salinas quality has been stronger.

 

Green Onions 
The market remains depressed due to high volume crossings from Mexico  the past couple weeks. However, the severe heat (120 degrees) the past few days should lower the volume of crossings from Mexico. Also, due to the depressed market the last 6 weeks, some growers are curtailing harvest on iced green onions which could lead to a slight short term improvement in the market.

 

Broccoli

Good availability for the remainder of the week and going into next week.  There is better volume on crown cuts as opposed to bunch and shippers are looking to make deals.  Run your offers by us whether loading in Santa Maria or Salinas.

 

Cauliflower

Ample supplies for the remainder of the week and quality has been very nice.  Large white domes with nice green jackets.  The market has seemed to settle at current trading levels but there is the spot deal here and there.  Please run any offers you may have by us.

 

Artichokes

Supplies  of Thornless / Seeded have increased allowing the market to  ease on all sizes.   Promotional  pricing is available on the largest sizes.  Quality is very nice.

Brussel Sprouts

Production is winding down from Mexico   with improving supplies  from  Central  California .  The market will remain flat until  Mexico finishes at the end of the month. Some  shippers are pushing discounts  for volume. Quality has improved but the new crop from California continues to be preferred .

Strawberries

A mixed range in berry pricing will continue into next week as quality continues to vary out of Watsonville and Salinas.  Some bruising has been reported by end users.  The forecast for next week is calling for normal temperatures as we wind up the 4th of July pull.

Cantaloupes:

Demand picked up last weekend for the July 4th.  Supplies swooned a bit toward the end of last week, but the  extreme heat that has afflicted the deserts since then has increased supplies once gain.  Quality looks a bit ragged, but it is better than to be expected in the face of record breaking temperatures.  Prices rose between Friday & Monday but leveled by mid week.  The desert deal will begin its end game over the course of the next week to ten days.  The Westside will have a few a few growers harvesting this weekend, with many more phasing in by the first week in July.  Sized have peaked on 9s then jbo 9s then 12s.  Demand should slow as retailer’s pull will abate as we inch closer to the holiday.  We look for the market to remain steady with some dealing on 9s, then prices should drop by mid to end of next week.

Honeydews:

Mexico is finishing up. but the deserts are still going, but like cantaloupes should phase out over the next week. Dews will be starting with the same schedule as outlined schedule above, with a few starting a day or two earlier than lopes.  Demand has remained tepid all spring and does not look to change until late summer when honeydews gain retailers promotional favor.  Sizes are peaking overwhelming on 5s, followed by 6s then 8s.  We look for a dull and steady market through mid to end of next week, with weaker prices starting the first week in July

 

Watermelon

Florida is winding down and melons are transitioning into Georgia and South Carolina.  South Texas is done as well and we are moving North and then to West Texas  and then to New Mexico. Demand is good coming into the 4^th of July and 60s seem to be very snug. Produce West will offer Watermelon year round for the upcoming  season from Western , Central and Eastern shipping points . Please contact your salesperson for info.

 

 

Lettuce​​​

The market  rebounded with lighter supplies  due to lower yields and mild, below normal temperatures reducing production. After the initial surge to beat  rising prices  demand will again stall  until  shippers  volumes  return to normal.  Weather forecast call for continued mild temperatures especially along the coast.  Wide range in quality continues to exist throughout all growing areas.

Mix Leaf

The  market has settled and begun to firm with lighter production from Central California.  Regional homegrown production areas have begun and should keep  a ceiling on leaf prices , especially Green and Redleaf . Romaine Hearts will continue to stay strong as there is limited production at the local levels.

 

Celery

Plenty of deals on larger sizes.  We are expecting stronger markets as growing regions shift to Salinas Valley areas.  Salinas production has been slow to start due to unseasonably cooler weather over the past few weeks.  Quality is still very nice industry wide with very few issues to report in coastal growing areas.  Shippers are currently looking to move product his week and lighter volume is expected next week.

 

Broccoli

Supplies will remain limited for the remainder of this week and for most of next week.  Prices have topped out but there will be no reprieve from current FOB’s this week.  Yields will continue to be below normal for the next few days.  Hopefully some warmer weather forecasted for the weekend and early part of next week will push the plants and increase yields.

 

Cauliflower

Yields continue to be far below normal for this time of year.  Basically due to weather, cooler than normal temperatures, and some planting gaps caused by rains  in the beginning of the year are the main culprits behind the high FOB’s.  Look for prices to start declining by early next week.  Overall quality has been good, nice white domes, good size and weights.

 

Artichokes

Production  of Heirloom /Green Globes  varieties  have dwindled and the Thornless varieties have been slow to produce.  Look for the market to be active on all sizes until the Seeded varieties increase in coming weeks.  Initial production will be  predominately LARGE sizes.

Brussel Sprouts

Production continues  to struggle from Mexico with water quality and insect pressure reducing supplies   Domestic production has been slow to ramp up  and the market has strengthened on better quality. Expect  overall supplies  to remain steady  throughout the month  as new production areas in the Central coast  start to replace supplies  from Mexico.

Strawberries

The lack of demand following the memorial day holiday look like it may stick with us the rest of the week. The market is developing into a split market as some suppliers have light supplies, while others need to move fruit. Quality has been good out of the Watsonville and Santa Maria. The weather will dictate next weeks pricing. Currently the forecast is for warmer temps next week. Ad pricing for the 4th of July pull looks to be in the $10.00 to $12.00 range.

 

Cantaloupes:

The market has been trading lower this week as heat in the desert is bringing production on and there is a lack of ad activity.  Wholesale markets are dealing with left over holiday supplies.  Sizes are skewing to 9s and 12s rather equally spread over the entire deal. 15s were plentiful but sizes are starting increase making their supply light.  Jbo 9s are rather sparse as seems to be the case for the entire deal this year. Next week as inventories clean our we look for demand to pick up.  At the same time the desert heat is expected to continue keeping production prodigious.  We look for the market to limp to close this week with deals being made, them level off over the weekend and next week.

 

Honeydews:

Honeydew production increased in response to the heat. Mexico continued to harvest heavily and the domestic deal picked up as well. As with cantaloupes, domestic sizes skewed a bit small peaking on 6s followed by 8s then 5s, of which there were few. The market trading steady on 5s but lower on 6s and 8s with cheap deals being made up to this point.  Next week we see little change other than perhaps the deals disappearing and the market stabilizing at current quoted levels.

 

Watermelons:

Produce West has started our organic seedless out of Florida. Our first pick is running larger in the 36/45 count. We have good supplies in those sizes but are light  on 60s. We also are still loading conventional melons in both Texas and Florida and will do so through 4^th of July. We will then begin to wind down in Texas and continue in Florida .  The market in CV and OG looks like it will recover at the end of this week beginning of next week from the Memorial Day pull or lack of.