Newsletter 8/30/17

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Lettuce
 Lukewarm demand has kept markets from overheating although the weather is expected to “overheat” this weekend which will bring about quality and labor issues likely impacting supplies. Highs are expected to reach triple digits in many areas other than right along the coast. More lettuce acreage is transitioning further South in the Valley where the highest temperatures are expected. Most shippers will begin to increase their acreage heading into September expecting lower yields but with improved demand.
Mix Leaf
​Romaine market has improved with mostly steady supplies and good demand. Romaine Hearts have also improved but not quite as strong with many shippers are stripping down their off quality Romaine into Hearts . Quality continues to vary with fringe burn , mildew and insect pressure along with seeders and twisting. .​ Demand for ​​Green and Red leaf lag behind while continuing to show variable quality around the Valley. Local Homegrown production areas are experiencing less than ideal weather although continuing to compete with California market.Hot weather this weekend could impact supplies and provide for sudden price fluctuations.
Brussels Sprouts
​Production continues from Northern California ​ with improving quality but still showing varied sizing , discoloration and insect pressure. Supplies are expected to improve in coming weeks as most shippers will start their Freezer production which will increase supplies significantly although demand is expected to correspondingly increase heading into the Fall season.
Celery
Good supplies continue this week out of the central coast. Michigan is still producing plenty of volume, keeping this market depressed for now. Large sizing remains the most plentiful and shippers are listening to offers. Quality is nice with very few problems to report.
Bell Pepper
Green Bell production in Gilroy and Hollister continues strong with stable pricing . Red Bells are just starting to improve supplies and pricing is expected to adjust.
Broccoli
Market remains unchanged as Eastern markets continue to be inundated with local product. Although supplies are somewhat limited on the West Coast they are able to take care of the demand west of the Mississippi. We do not expect to see much fluctuation with the market over the next 10 days.
Cauliflower
It has been awhile since we have seen the market sit on the floor for this period of time. We are beginning our fourth week of very low FOB pricing and there does not look to be an end in sight. Shippers are making deals for all delivery locations. Get with your Produce West sales representative and get some orders on the books.
Artichokes
​Seeded varieties are in full production with sizing profiles from Large to medium. Limited Summer demand has kept pricing down although could improve later next month.
Strawberries
The market tightened up due to the Labor Day pull and lighter yields from the fields. The Watsonville and Santa Maria areas have been experiencing warmer temperatures than normal and we are forecast for temperatures in the high 90’s for the weekend. Expect prices to range from $ 12 to $ 16 thru the middle of next week. New Crop fruit is now underway out of Santa Maria.
Oranges
Valencias are becoming very active as supplies diminish for the season in the central valley. With overall production down 20% this year, suppliers are struggling to keep up with demand. Quality is marginal at best, but with so little fruit available customers have to take what they can get. Some growers have less than 2 weeks left in their harvest schedule and navels are not expected to start until mid October. This will leave 3-4 weeks of very little product. Expect elevated pricing this fall.
Cantaloupes
Demand for cantaloupes stayed stubbornly slow for spot market sales, but contract sales and a few holiday promotions firmed the market a bit and greatly diminished the below quote discounts. Sizes were a tad smaller; still peaking on 9s but with few jbo 9s and more 12s. This also cut yields as it takes more melons of smaller sizes to fill up a carton, cutting down on total carton counts. The weather this week turned hot and this should keep sizing on the smaller side next week. Demand could diminish a bit as holiday will be over and Texas will be all but eliminated from the demand picture. We look for a steady quoted market with jbo 9s trading a bit higher and discounting becoming more prevalent on 12s.
Honeydews
Little change this week in honeydews. Sizes continued to run heavy to 5s then 6s then jbo 5s. Demand was dull, as there was little holiday promotional activity; and cantaloupes remained cheap and plentiful, along with local melons. Next week sizing could shrink a bit in the face of record breaking heat. This in turn could cut carton counts coming from the fields. Demand should remain dull, with peak autumn demand not starting for a couple of weeks and of course the Texas tragedy. Market should be steady next week with perhaps a firming up of jbo 5s.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower supplies have increased significantly and the market has corrected. Supplies could be impacted by this weekends heatwave. Broccoli  ​production​ remains to be impacted by insect pressure with overall light supplies​. The market has remained firm on limited supplies​. This weekends heat should only compound the insect pressure. ​
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
​Most Herbs and Bunching Greens have experienced quality issues along with persistent insect pressure causing intermittent shortages although local Homegrown supplies have been sufficient to offset any availability issues. ​
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
​Supplies have improved on  Leaf, Iceberg  ​as well as Romaine  ​from California ​although heat and insect pressure will continue to impact supplies. Markets continue steady with limited demand sue to competition from homegrown supplies.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot production continues to be strong although the heat has impacted harvest and quality. ​ This weekends spike will likely has an impact especially on the tops. Onion ​demand has been good with good supplies from Central California while  Potato supplies have been cut short due to extreme heat in the Central Valley this Summer .
OG Citrus
Lemons: Supplies from California continue to be limited while Chilean imports are helping overall availability and Mexico is improving although peaking on choice fruit after being hindered and delayed by Tropical storms.
Limes: The market continues to be strong with continued weather from Mexico hampering supplies but should rebound with drier conditions.
OG Melons
​Central Valley Watermelons have been ​hampered all season by heat and delays on new plantings leading to limited production from California. OG Cantaloupes and Honeydews production has been steady with moderate supplies and good demand.
OG Avocados
Mexico: The summer crop is small with limited availability. Demand exceeds supplies as the U.S. market is pushing upward rapidly. This looks to be a continued trend. The crop is currently peaking on 60s and smaller. Mexico’s new main crop is expected to start mid-September if maturity level of the fruit is sufficient to harvest.
California: New Crop is not expected to start ​until the Fall​​.
OG Berries
Strawberry production from Salinas and Watsonville continues with small sizing and varied quality due to fluctuating high temperatures and overcast weather. Production ​of​ New Crop from Southern California has begun on limited supplies and improved sizing and quality leading to a tiered market. Blueberry ​supplies are expected to decrease from the Northwest.

Newsletter 8/23/17

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Lettuce
 Mild temperatures along the coast have allowed shippers to get ahead of their lettuce crop and lighter weights and yields have resulted in reduced industry volume. Most shippers shot up pricing rapidly although most of the demand was coming from other shippers. Nevertheless the market reacted although lukewarm demand has since stabilized pricing. Quality appears to be unchanged varying from excellent to fair throughout the valley. Tip burn and mildew are visible on many lots with varying degrees of color and weight.
Mix Leaf
Romaine market remains steady with mild to moderate demand and Romaine Heart production has steadied with sporadic demand. Quality has varied with fringe burn, mildew and seeder pressure. Green and Red leaf are also showing variable quality around the valley. Local Homegrown production areas continue with some weather issues but will continue to put pressure on California market to remain steady although with many shippers in their reduced summer acreage ,spikes in demand could lead to sudden price fluctuations.
Brussels Sprouts
Production continues from California with improving quality but still showing varied sizing, discoloration and insect pressure. Supplies are not expected to increase for another month.
Celery
Plenty of product at extreme bargain prices. Shippers are looking to move on all sizes. Better deals are being made on large sized celery. Quality is very nice industry wide. Some seeder has been reported although the damage is minimal. Michigan is still in full production, easing demand on the west coast. Plenty of deals so run offers by us.
Bell Pepper
Green Bell production in Gilroy and Hollister continues strong with stable pricing. Red Bells continue to be strong although supplies are expected to increase in coming weeks.
Broccoli
Market remains unchanged as Eastern markets continue to be inundated with local product. Although supplies are somewhat limited on the West Coast they are able to take care of the demand west of the Mississippi. We do not expect to see much fluctuation with the market over the next 10 days.
Cauliflower
It has been awhile since we have seen the market sit on the floor for this period of time. We are beginning our fourth week of very low FOB pricing and there does not look to be an end in sight. Shippers are making deals for all delivery locations. Get with your Produce West sales representative and get some orders on the books.
Artichokes
Seeded varieties are in full production with sizing profiles from Large to medium sizing. Limited Summer demand continues although expected to improve in coming weeks.
Strawberries
The market continues steady as the market has a $4.00 range, due to quality differences. The weather on the central coast remains foggy in the AM with clearing in the afternoon. The primary growing areas, Santa Maria, Salinas and Watsonville are expecting steady volume through the labor day weekend. We are entering the labor day pull for our friends on the East coast, so look for the market to tighten, but prices should continue to remain in the $8.00 to $12.00 range.
Oranges
Strong demand for California fruit this week as schools return to session, particularly on the small sized fruit. Demand exceed supply on 113 and 138 size Valencias. Strong demand will continue through labor day as many central valley growers finish up for the season . The fruit is starting to show signs of stress from excessive heat all summer long. Expect stronger markets through the weekend and even lighter supply next week.
Cantaloupes
The market as expected stayed dull thru the first part of this week and not so expected has stayed stubbornly slow so far. Product has been plentiful, especially in light of the poor demand. Local product and a general lack in promotional interest has kept the market depressed with many sellers offering discounts on all levels of the distribution chain. Quality overall has been good. Sizing seems evenly split between jbo 9s and 9s with 12s a bit lighter in supply. Weather will be a bit warmer next week in the San Joaquin and production is expected to keep going. Demand could improved due to the return of school programs, but so far it has not been felt. We look for a steady and dull market next week.
Honeydews
As they have for the past several weeks honeydew markets have mirrored cantaloupes. Demand has been dull. Production has been ample; sizing has been peaking on 5s then Jbo 5s then 6s. Quality has been good. Market stayed dull and steady this week. Next week little looks to change on the production side. Good growing conditions should keep harvests plentiful. Sizing looks to change little as well. Demand could possibly improve with the arrival of September, which traditionally is good demand month for dews. But this year demand has been stubbornly slow and there is nothing that looks to change that. Little change expected next week.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower supplies have increased dramatically and the market has begun to correct although Broccoli  production continues to be steady with overall light supplies and good demand. Insect pressure is the main culprit limiting supplies. The market has remained firm on limited supplies but should ease as quality improves in coming weeks.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Most of the Herbs and Bunching Greens have experienced quality issues along with persistent insect pressure causing intermittent shortages although local Homegrown supplies have been sufficient to offset any availability issues.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Supplies have improved on Leaf, Iceberg  as well as Romaine from California although heat and insect pressure will continue to impact supplies. Markets continue steady with limited demand to due competition from homegrown supplies.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot production continues to be strong although the heat has impacted harvest and quality. Onion demand has been good with good quality White, Yellow and Red Onion supplies from Central California while Potato supplies have been limited due to extreme heat in the Central Valley.
OG Citrus
Lemons: Supplies from California continue to be limited while Chilean imports are helping overall availability and Mexico is improving although peaking on choice fruit after being hindered and delayed by Tropical storms.
Limes: The market continues to be strong with continued weather from Mexico hampering supplies but should rebound with drier conditions.
OG Melons
Central Valley  Watermelons have been hampered all season by heat and delays on new plantings leading to limited production from California.  OG Cantaloupes and Honeydews  production has been steady with moderate supplies.
OG Avocados
Mexico: The summer crop is small with limited availability. Demand exceeds supplies as the U.S. market is pushing upward rapidly. This looks to be a continued trend. The crop is currently peaking on 60s and smaller. Mexico’s new main crop is expected to start mid-September if maturity level of the fruit is sufficient to harvest.
California: New Crop is not expected to start for 3-4 weeks .
OG Berries
Strawberry production from Salinas and Watsonville continues with varying sizing and quality due to fluctuating high temperatures and overcast weather. The market has tried to strengthen on better quality although bruising remains prevalent. Some Fall crop production has started from Santa Maria with improved sizing although limited supplies are expected until next month.

8/10/17

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Lettuce

Last weekends warming trend produced hot, humid conditions along the coast andaccelerated growth adding volume to an already tepid market. Quality appears to be unchanged varying from excellent to  fair throughout the valley. Tip burn and mildew  are visible on many lots with the best quality having lighter weights and darker color. Forecast calls for more moderate temperatures which could return supplies to more sustainable levels  and steady the market.
Mix Leaf

Romaine market  remains steady with mild demand and  Romaine Heart production has surged causing the market to soften for most shippers. Quality has also downgraded with fringe burn, mildew and seeder pressure all increasing as well as building inventories leading to aging product. Mild temperatures this week will help  shippers ease production and help  stabilize the market. Green and Red leaf  are also showing variable quality around the valley. Local Homegrown production areas continue with some weather issues but will continue to put pressure on California market to remain steady although with many shippers in their reduced summer acreage ,spikes in demand could lead to sudden price fluctuations.
Brussels Sprouts
Production continues from California with improving quality but still showing varied sizing, discoloration and  insect pressure.  Supplies  are not expected to increase for another month.
Celery
Much slower market this week as local and regional areas increase production throughout the country.  Salinas and Santa Maria are producing good, high quality volume and shippers are looking to deal on most sizes, especially 24 and 30 count celery.  Be sure to run deals by us, as it will likely be a buyers market for the next couple of weeks.
Bell Pepper
Green Bell production in Gilroy and Hollister has started to  peak  with  better pricing available.  Increased production on Red Bells will follow by next week which should allow the market to adjust.
Broccoli
Sufficient supplies out of California, Maine and Canada are keeping up with demand creating a very dull market and making buyers complacent.  Shippers on the East Coast are not very interested  California or Mexico product.  Movement is sluggish and does not look to change for the remainder of the week.  Overall quality out of California has been nice and Mexico is a mixed bag due to the on and off again rains that growing region has been dealing with over the last few weeks.
Cauliflower
Supply exceeds demand and shippers are looking to make deals in order to get product moved.  Please run any offer you may have by us and lets see what we can get done.  Now is the time to promote as we have been offered some very aggressive prices for the remainder of the week.
Artichokes
 Seeded varieties are in full production with sizing profiles starting to peak on medium sizes although demand  has diminished  entering the Summer season making Artichokes a Great value.
Strawberries
 The central coast is finally experiencing normal temperatures in all growing areas. Very consistent temperatures have been ranging 75 to 80 degrees are expecting to continue into the weekend. The Majority of the suppliers have cleaned up the large inventories by discounting fresh prices and diverting fruit to the freezers. The Monterey Variety continues to dominate the market place with counts averaging 20 to 24 per clamshell. There has been some quality issues reported in the form of light bruising, few soft and an occasional soft shoulder.
Raspberries
A wide range in quality and pricing will continue into next week. California supplies are trending to the lighter side as volume out of Mexico is looking to increase over the next few weeks.
Blackberries
We are experiencing a split market as far as price and quality out of California. There is as much as a $8.00 spread between suppliers and we expect this to continue into next week.
Blueberries
Expect light supplies as we move to the varieties Blue Cro and Elliott. Volume over the next 2 to 3 weeks will be sporadic as we get set for the upcoming import season.
Oranges
Demand exceeds supply scenario on Valencia oranges this week.  Suppliers are receiving premium pricing due to low supply.  Heavy rains had initially resulted in lighter summers volumes, and now excessive heat is damaging some of the little fruit still available. The central valley has been receiving higher than normal temperatures this Summer.  Quality is marginal, but with limited supply, buyers are taking any they can get their hands on. Schools are starting up this month which will further diminish supply and strengthen markets. Expect markets to climb throughout the month of August.
Cantaloupes
Prodigious local production and ample California production clashed to make the market struggle all week.  Also the August swoon in demand commonly called Dog Days combined to make for a weak and dealing cantaloupe market this week.  Sizing peaked on Jbo 9s which also drove up yields.  Next week, production should continue to be ample and the slight cooling trend in the San Joaquin Valley could keep sizes running big.  Labor day demand, if there is such a thing, will not kick in until the week after next.  Demand could be helped as this week’s lower prices product is passed on to the consumer. Production has had some gaps and gluts this year so we could see an unexpected ebbing of supplies.  Market should be dull and steady most of next week with a chance for improving conditions and prices toward the end of the period.
Honeydews
Although there are few local deals on honeydews, there is still plenty of product available in the face of lackluster demand.  Sizes peaked on 5s then jbo 5s then 6s. Prices dipped a bit.  Next week production will continue to be ample with Sacramento Valley picking up.  Demand usually picks up a bit in September but that is 3 weeks away.  Dull and steady as she goes is the outlook for honeydews
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Broccoli  and Cauliflower production continues to be  steady with overall light supplies and good demand. Insect  pressure is the main culprit limiting supplies. The market has remained firm on limited supplies but should settle at sustainable levels later this month.
OG  Herbs & Bunch Greens

Most of the Herbs and Bunching Greens have experienced quality issues along with persistent insect pressure causing intermittent shortages although local Homegrown supplies have been sufficient to offset any availability issues.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce 

Supplies have improved on Leaf, Iceberg as well as Romaine from California although heat and insect pressure will continue to impact supplies.  Markets continue steady with  limited demand to due competition from homegrown supplies.
OG Root Vegetables

Carrot production continues to be strong  although wind and heat have impacted harvest and quality. Onion & Potato  demand has been good with good quality White, Yellow and Red  Onion supplies from Central California while Potato supplies are expected to remain light due to extreme heat in the Central Valley .
OG Citrus
Lemons: Demand exceeds supply on all sizes and grades of fruit; anticipated to last into early fall. Chilean  imports are helping overall availability and Mexico is trying to get started, but has been hindered and delayed by intermittent rain. Even with imports, overall supplies will remain tight.
Limes: The market is steady after rising  last couple of weeks.  Heavy precipitationhampered supplies  but should rebound with drier conditions.
OG Melons

Central Valley  Watermelons have been  hampered by heat and delays on new plantings leading to limited production from California. Hot weather continues in the forecast  and will  likely lead to continued shortages on all melons including  OG Cantaloupes and Honeydew
OG Avocados
Mexico: The Summer crop is starting slowly with volume increasing in the coming weeks. Sizes are peaking on 60s and smaller; limited availability on larger fruit.
California:  Harvest volume continues to decline with some shippers packing only a few day per week. Supplies will continue to trend downward through August and the crop finishes for the season.
OG Berries
Strawberry production from Salinas and Watsonville continues with sizing and quality still hampered by fluctuating high temperatures and overcast weather.  The market has tried to strengthen on better quality although bruising remains prevalent. Most shippers are trying to limit problems by sending their marginal fruit to the freezer / processors.

8/2/17

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Lettuce

 Warming trend this week has lettuce shippers pushing to move volume.  The Market once steady appears  headed for an oversupply situation. Possible Thunder showers and high humidity may impact quality and therefore availability by next week but there will be a surge in production the balance of this week. Quality continues to vary from excellent to  fair throughout the valley. Tip burn and mildew  are visible on many lots with the best quality having lighter weights and darker color.
Mix Leaf
Romaine market  remains steady with mild demand and  Romaine Heart production has surged causing the market to soften for most shippers. Quality has also downgraded with fringe burn, mildew and seeder pressure all increasing as well as building inventories leading to aging product. Green and Red leaf  are also showing variable quality around the valley. Local Homegrown production areas continue with some weather issues but will continue to put pressure on California market to remain steady although with many shippers in their reduced summer acreage ,spikes in demand could lead to sudden price fluctuations.
Brussels Sprouts
Production continues from California with improving quality but still showing varied sizing, discoloration and  insect pressure.  Supplies  are not expected to increase for another month.
Celery
Summer volumes are picking up on the West Coast and plenty of product is coming out of the ground.  Good production between Salinas and Santa Maria areas. With Michigan and Canada coming on strong demand is slowing nation wide. Quality is good overall however seeder is still a factor; normal for this time of year.  Lots of deals and shippers are looking to move, especially on 24 and 30 count sizes.
Bell Pepper
Green Bell production in Gilroy and Hollister has started to  peak  with  better pricing available.  Red Bells will follow in a couple weeks.
Broccoli

Broccoli demand has waned a little and shippers are looking for business, especially on crown cut.  There will be opportunity buys available going into the weekend from various shippers.  We are experiencing some warmer than usual weather which should create an increase in yields.  Run your price buy ideas by us and let’s get your orders filled for the weekend.
Cauliflower
Supplies exceed demand and shippers will be looking to make deals for the end of the week in order to clean up inventory before going into the weekend.  Get with your Produce West sales representative to find the best buy.
Artichokes
Seeded varieties are in full production with sizing profiles starting to peak on medium sizes although demand  has diminished  entering the Summer season making Artichokes a Great value.
Strawberries
 The glut of berries continues, but there could be a light at the end of the tunnel as suppliers have beensending fruit to the freezers and the juicers to help lighten cooler inventories.  Due to the crazy spring weather patterns fruit that is coming off now really should of been peaking about 5 to 6 weeks ago. Demand will still be light next week, but expect a slight up tick in pricing supplies lighten.
Oranges
Demand exceeds situation here on the West Coast. With schools starting this week we are seeing high demand in pretty much every size Valencia. We will see tight supplies throughout this month. More Chilean product would help supply, although volume remains tight there as well.  Pricing will continue to rise.  Expect pro rates on most sizes this week and next.  Quality is good as product is harvested to order, with very little storage fruit.
Cantaloupes
Cantaloupes felt as if they had found a comfortable trading level as week. Demand has been adequate to clean up inconsistent supplies.  This week sizes started peaking on jumbo 9s then 9s with other sizes coming off in much smaller percentages.  Large sizes increase yields so volume increased this week.  At the same time local areas increased their production.   Thus the market corrected on larger sizes but the correction was reasonable and piqued demand enough to stabilize prices again within $1.00 of last week’s levels. Next week temperature in the San Joaquin Valley will be a bit cooler but production should stay robust. Sizes should stay peaking on 9s and jbo 9s.  Demand does not look to change too much either.  Market should be steady with some discounting all next week.
Honeydews
Abundant supplies of mostly 5s and lackluster demand due to buyers focusing mostly on cantaloupes led to a dull market with cheap prices. Next week supplies should stay abundant, demand could pick up a bit in response to the cheap pricing.  We look for a steady market next week with improving demand toward the weekend.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Broccoli  and Cauliflower production continues to be  steady with overall light supplies and good demand. Insect  pressure is the main culprit limiting supplies. The market has remained firm on  limited supplies but should settle at sustainable levels later this month.
OG  Herbs & Bunch Greens

Most of the Herbs and Bunching Greens have experienced quality issues along with persistent insect pressure causing intermittent shortages although local Homegrown supplies have been sufficient to offset any availability issues.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce

Supplies have improved on  Leaf, Iceberg  as  well as Romaine from California although heat and insect pressure will continue to impact supplies.  Markets continue steady with  limited demand to due competition from homegrown supplies.
 
OG Root Vegetables

Carrot production continues to be strong  although wind and heat have impacted harvest and quality. Onion & Potato  demand has been good with good quality White, Yellow and Red  Onion supplies from Central California while Potato supplies are expected to remain tight through the Summer.
OG Citrus
Lemons: Demand exceeds supply on all sizes and grades of fruit; anticipated to last into early fall. Chilean  imports are helping overall availability and Mexico is trying to get started, but has been hindered and delayed by the rain. Even with imports, overall supplies will remain tight.
Limes: The market is slightly higher this week. Heavy precipitation continues to decrease volume and increase stylar (a disease affecting the opposite end of the stem, appearing as a discolored, water-soaked spot).
OG Melons

Central Valley  Watermelons have been  hampered by heat and delays on new plantings leading to limited production from California. Hot weather in the forecast  this week will likely lead to continued shortages on  on all melons including Cantaloupes and Honeydews.
OG Avocados
Mexico: The summer crop is starting slowly with volume increasing in the coming weeks. Sizes are peaking on 60s and smaller; limited availability on larger fruit.
California: Sizes are peaking on 48s and larger; limited supply on 60s and smaller fruit. Harvest volume continues to decline with some shippers packing only a few day per week. Supplies will continue to trend downward as move into August and the crop finishes for the season.
OG Berries

Strawberry production from Salinas and Watsonville continue with sizing and quality still hampered by fluctuating high temperatures and overcast weather.  The market has tried to strengthen on better quality although bruising remains prevalent. Most shippers are trying to limit problems by sending their marginal fruit to the freezer / processors.

7/27/17

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Lettuce

Market continues steady but randomly fluctuating throughout the week.  Varying temperatures in the has led to production and quality differences among shippers with excellent  to  fair quality throughout the valley. Tip burn and mildew  are visible on many lots. with the best quality having lighter weights and darker color.
Mix Leaf
Romaine market  remains steady with mild demand although  Hearts continue to be strong with limited  homegrown pressure.  Quality is good but has lessened with the continued intermittent temperature spikes causing weaker texture and fringe burn while mildew pressure is prevalent along the coast where morning overcast conditions exist. Green and Red leaf  are also showing variable quality around the valley. Local Homegrown production areas continue with some weather issues but will continue to put pressure on California market to remain steady although with many shippers in their reduced summer acreage,spikes in demand could lead to sudden price fluctuations.
Brussels Sprouts
Production continues from California with poor quality affecting supplies. Varied sizing, discoloration and  insect pressure continue to be prevalent. Market is expected to remain strong  through the Summer.
Celery
This market is in correction mode. Michigan and Canadian growing regions are in full swing and lessening demand for west coast product.  Salinas and Santa Maria are both producing nice quality, although there have been some isolated reports of seeder in some of the warmer regions. We expect a “buyers market” for the next few weeks as local product floods markets and the summer doldrums kick in.
Bell Pepper
Green Bells are just starting to see improved production from new growers areas in Gilroy and Hollister.  Central Valley production remains limited but additional supplies  should start to help pressure markets to adjust heading into next week.
Broccoli
Supplies remain steady and harvest volume continues to keep up with demand.  Crowns continue to have better demand than bunch out of California.  Some of this demand may be coming from customers who would usually be taking Mexican broccoli but quality has been an issue out of Mexico so that is diverting buyers to come out West.
Cauliflower
Supplies exceed demand and shippers will be looking to make deals for the end of the week in order to clean up inventory before going into the weekend.  Get with your Produce West sales representative to find the best buy.
Artichokes
Seeded varieties are in full production with sizing profiles starting to peak on medium sizes although demand  has diminished  entering the Summer season making Artichokes a Great value.
Strawberries
Demand is slowly starting to turn around. The Salinas and Watsonville areas are seeing improvements in quality with fresh fruit, as we have been experiencing some consistent weather patterns. Santa Maria volumes have dropped slightly. Quality is still good as we enter the later stages of this season.
Blueberries
The weather has  been favorable in the B.C. production area with no precipitation expected for this week at all. Fields continue to be lighter this season, however quality has been exceptional and is expected to remain this way. Demand has eased over the weekend, and markets are easing as well.
Raspberries
 Supplies remain extremely light with much over the industry experiencing heavy prorates. Demand is strong and seems to be driving by promotional pricing for the Chains.  The industry will be in a light supply situation for the next couple weeks but volume is forecast to increase in the month of August.
Blackberries
Supplies have been holding steady. Weather is slightly better this week in North Carolina which resulted in better quality. Lower production is expected for the next several weeks which is normal in North Carolina before the fall crop returns with increased volume in 3-4 weeks. California production is steady and will slightly increase over the next month, but not anticipating large weekly numbers over all. Expect steady markets next week.
Oranges
Very strong demand for California Valencias and supply gaps continue just like we expected.  Now we reach the point of the summer when schools are preparing to return to session, which will stretch supplies even tighter.  Expect pricing to continue to climb higher through this month. The California season will go until mid September.  Quality has been good, with very few problems to report.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Broccoli  and Cauliflower production continues to be  steady with overall light supplies and good demand. Insect  pressure is the main culprit limiting supplies. The market has firmed but should settle at sustainable levels.
OG  Herbs & Bunch Greens

Most of the Herbs and Bunching Greens have experienced quality issues along with persistent insect pressure causing intermittent shortages although local Homegrown supplies have been sufficient to offset any availability issues.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Supplies have improved on  Leaf, Iceberg  as  well as Romaine from California although heat and insect pressure will continue to impact supplies.  Markets continue steady with  limited demand to due competition from homegrown supplies.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot production continues to be strong  although wind and heat have impacted harvest and quality. Onion & Potato  demand has been good with good quality White, Yellow and Red  Onion supplies from Central California while Potato supplies are expected to remain tight through the Summer.
OG Citrus
Lemons: Demand exceeds supply on all sizes and grades of fruit; anticipated to last into early fall. Chilean  imports are helping overall availability and Mexico is trying to get started, but has been hindered and delayed by the rain. Even with imports, overall supplies will remain tight.
Limes: The market is slightly higher this week. Heavy precipitation continues to decrease volume and increase stylar (a disease affecting the opposite end of the stem, appearing as a discolored, water-soaked spot).
OG Melons
Central Valley Watermelons have been  hampered by heat and delays on new plantings leading to limited production from California. Barring any significant hot weather next week should bring better availability on all melons including Cantaloupes and Honeydews. 
OG Avocados

Mexico: The summer crop is starting slowly with volume increasing in the coming weeks. Sizes are peaking on 60s and smaller; limited volume on larger fruit. d their field prices and reduced volume available. This new summer fruit has slower maturity level, taking longer to ripen.
California: Sizes are peaking on 48s and larger; limited supply on 60s and smaller fruit. Harvest volume continues to decline with some shippers packing only a few day per week. Supplies will continue to trend downward as move into August and the crop finishes for the season.
OG Berries
Strawberry production from Salinas and Watsonville continue with sizing and quality still hampered by fluctuating high temperatures and overcast weather.  The market has tried to strengthen on better quality although bruising remains prevalent. Most shippers are trying to limit problems by sending their marginal fruit to the freezer / processors.

6/29/17

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Lettuce

Production continues steady with portions of the Valley still experiencing Hot temperatures while most areas have mild even overcast conditions.  Production AND quality has varied among shippers.  Overall moderate demand has kept movement and pricing steady.  Most shippers continue to quote higher levels  anticipating shortages but sporadically  offer “deals”  as needed. Quality continues to vary with Very Good to  fair quality throughout the valley. Tip burn and mildew  are visible on most lots with the best quality having lighter weights  and darker color.
Mix Leaf
Romaine market  remains steady although  demand has  improved slightly while demand for Hearts continues to be strong with limited  homegrown pressure.  Quality has been very good with mildew and fringe burn showing more frequently. Green and Redleaf  are also showing variable quality around the valley with some shippers already in their reduced summer acreage. Local Homegrown production areas are starting to improve and will continue to put pressure on California market to remain steady.
Brussels Sprouts
Production continues mostly from Mexico which continues to battle  insect  pressure although quality continues to improve. The market is starting to soften as most customers are requesting domestic product. Supplies are improving as domestic production has begun from  Central Coast with mixed sizing and quality .
Celery
Oxnard is now finished, increasing demand for Santa Maria and Salinas growing regions. Michigan and Canadian production was delayed 2 weeks, which has contributed to the stronger markets out West.  We expect product to remain tight through the 4th of July and begin to settle later next week.  Good quality reported this week as weather remains mild in coastal areas.
Oranges
This market has been very active and is still gaining momentum. Valencia harvests have been light and growers are leaving fruit on the tree to cover next month’s commitments.  Chilean navels are still a few weeks off of any sort of volume due to heavy rains, so we expect this market to remain strong throughout the summer. Quality has been nice with very few problems.  Most of what is shipped is freshly picked and moved quickly.
Broccoli
Prices have stabilized at current trading levels.  Demand for bunch broccoli remains stronger than crown cuts.  Light supplies continue to come out of Mexico and there is some product coming out of Canada as well.  The market will not change much this week and looks to remain constant going into next week.
Cauliflower
Heavier yields are expected for the remainder of this week and going into next week.

Shippers will be making deals on 9 and 12 size as we head into the weekend. Check with your Produce West sales rep on the hot buy opportunities. Overall quality has been fair.  Color is cream to white and there is some spotting showing up out of both Salinas and Santa Maria.
Artichokes

Seeded varieties are starting to increase with larger sizing profiles expected although demand  has diminished  entering the Summer season.
Strawberries
 Quality continues to be fair, especially on Organics. The main issue continues to be soft shoulders and light bruising at shipping point.  The firm fruit is long overdue as we have had the some bruising issues since February. There begins a shift in the season in both Santa Maria and Watsonville/Salinas.  Sizes in Salinas are coming down slightly and Santa Maria has just passed the  peak of the season.   Estimates for next week should increase if we can get some consistent temperatures.
Blueberries
 The Georgia late season crop has been challenged by weather the last several weeks.  This has affected production estimates and quality.  Production is expected to be light next week as weather will be a factor also.  North Carolina is still producing but volumes are light and weather continues to be a challenge in that region also.  California is done thanks to the heat wave from last week.  Mexico imports are about finished as well.  New Jersey volumes are primarily the main production supplying the industry right now.  Volumes continue to increase each week and expected to peak in the next couple weeks.  Oregon and Washington production is starting in a light way.  British Columbia and Michigan are scheduled to start in the next few weeks.
Raspberries
 Supplies are light and demand exceeds supply in Watsonville, and California. Some shippers reporting wind burn and soft berries. Quality remains fair to good and weather is favorable for next week.
Blackberries
 Supplies continue to be very challenged by the wet weather last week in Georgia and North Carolina. Which has caused reduced yields, quality issues and less over all supplies. Weather will be slightly better this week,but sporadic showers are still expected. Market still remains strong. Supplies will remain steady.
Cantaloupes

Traded higher this week after soaring last week. Shortage of supply continued with many growers wrapping up in the desert and no one going in the San Joaquin.  Temps continued to be hot but not quite as beastly as this past week, and with shipping for the holiday calming, prices tended to level off starting Tuesday. But product remained very tight and demand exceeds or nearly exceeds supply. Next week the San Joaquin will start to harvest but it is expected that the harvest will be spotty and very inconsistent due to planting gaps and last week’s heat.  Sizes and quality from the San Joaquin remains to be seen. Only one or two growers will be left to clean up scraps in their desert fields.  Demand could be tepid in the face of high prices slowing movement through the distribution chain and no impending holidays. We look for a steady market next week with high prices continuing through at least mid week, then perhaps declining toward the end of next week.
Honeydews
Honeydews also traded higher this week as the meager production got even less robust in the heat and the impending end of the desert deal. Kern started with but one grower going. Mexico finished. Thus with no other areas going and quality and yields limited the market rose then leveled as holiday demand ended and reaction to higher prices cooled demand. The dynamic net week looks the same as with cantaloupes. Tight supplies and high prices early in the week followed by declining prices toward next weekend.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Broccoli and Cauliflower production continues to be  steady as  the market has settled at sustainable levels.
OG  Herbs & Bunch Greens

Most of the Herbs and Bunching Greens have experienced quality issues from the Hot temperatures over the past week  along with increased insect pressure causing intermittent shortages although local Homegrown supplies have been sufficient to offset any availability issues.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Supplies have improved on  Green and Red leaf  as  well as  Romaine from California  although heat and insect pressure will impact supplies for the next couple weeks.   Markets continue steady with  limited demand to due competition from homegrown supplies.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrots production continues to be strong  although Wind and heat  are starting to hamper harvest and quality . Potato and Onion demand has also been good with White, Yellow and Red  Onion supplies improving from Southern and Central California with good quality.
OG Citrus
Lighter  production with mostly larger profiles  continue on Lemons with good demand keeping prices elevated especially on smaller sizes. Valencia production has accelerated to the point off likely shortages looming next month . Limes are in full swing with excellent quality especially from California.
OG Melons
Central Valley Watermelons  are underway  after a delayed start .  Demand is  very good  heading into the 4th of July Holiday. Cantaloupes and Honeydews production has taken a hit with soaring temperatures in the desert prematurely ending their season and  Westside production not expected for another couple weeks. Most growers are anticipating heat damage to the plant but are continuously monitoring. We’ll keep you updated  on changing market conditions.
OG Berries
Production from  Salinas and Watsonville continue  but sizing and quality have been hampered by high wind and temperatures. Cooler coastal  temperatures should help improve  quality heading into next week.   The market has been steady with strong demand through this weekend expected.  Quality has been varied with most shippers now quoting bruising on ALL deliveries and many shippers showing varied color among packs due to inconsistent labor supply .

6/23/17

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Lettuce

Hot temperatures inland and warm along the coast continues to influence supplies.  With a difference of over 30 degrees production AND  quality has varied among shippers.  Overall moderate demand has kept pricing somewhat depressed  but  if  the heat continues as forecast enough acres will be lost and the market will likely firm.   Most shippers are quoting higher levels  anticipating shortages  but continue  offering “deals”  as needed. Quality continues to vary with  Very Good to  fair quality throughout the valley. Wind and now HOT inland temperatures are weakening texture while some mildew   exists along coastal ranches.
Mix Leaf
Romaine market  remains steady although  demand has  improved slightly while demand for Hearts continues to be strong with limited  homegrown pressure.  Quality has been very good with mildew and fringe burn showing more frequently. Green and Red leaf  are also showing variable quality around the valley with some shippers already in their reduced summer acreage. Local Homegrown production areas are starting to improve and will continue to put pressure on California market to remain steady.
Brussels Sprouts
Production continues mostly from Mexico which continues to battle  insect  pressure although quality continues to improve. The market is starting to soften as most customers are requesting domestic product. Supplies are improving as domestic production has begun from  Central Coast with mixed sizing and quality .
Celery
Salinas and Santa Maria areas are nearing full production as the Oxnard season comes to a close. We still expect product to be available in all 3 areas for the next 2 -3 weeks, although the majority of production will mainly be coming out of the Salinas Valley.  Pricing had bottomed out last week but has since rebounded as Oxnard numbers decrease.  Expect a slightly better market to maintain through next week and then taper off after the holiday pull.  Quality is good overall with very few problems to report.
Oranges
Central Valley Valencias are nearing the end of the season. The last harvests will finish in early July.  With harvests 20% lower than last year, we expect to finish up sooner than than previous years. Navels will start in August, which will leave a planting gap for the latter part of July. Expect strong markets through July and spiking in early August.  With these strong markets we will see more South American product which could lessen demand on the East coast, although we expect markets to remain strong through the summer.
Broccoli
Supplies look to be cleaning up fast at the current markets and prices are starting to trend up as we finish out the week.  The same inconsistent harvest yields is the culprit behind these up and down markets.  Demand for crown cuts are definitely getting better as we finish out the week.
Cauliflower
Heavier yields are expected for the remainder of this week and going into next week.  Look for shippers to be making deals in order to get inventory cleaned up going into the weekend.  Overall quality has been fair.  Color is cream to white and there is some spotting showing up out of both Salinas and Santa Maria.
Artichokes

Seeded varieties are starting to increase with larger sizing profiles expected although demand  has diminished  entering the Summer season.
Berries

Our inconsistent weather continues to effect quality primarily on Strawberries and Raspberries. We had 2 shots of rain in early June followed by a few days of higher temperatures, then heavy winds which then gave way to several days of 90 degree temps. The berries need colder conditions of low 50’s or less at night and we have been averaging in the high 50’s to low 60’s. We need the colder temps to help the plants recover from the high day time temps.
Strawberries
The Expectations of more fruit this week and next, won’t transpire due to the growing regions varying temperature and conditions. Walking thru various fields, there is a high number of berries that are not coloring up and light bruising is evident in many fields. Expect fruit size to drop over the coming weeks and Watsonville looks to have slightly better sizes than that of Salinas and Santa Maria. There are good bookings for the July 4th Holiday pull with many shippers sold out and not entertaining any new business for that time period.
Blueberries
Weather has been hot in the central valley this week and is expected to be in the 90’s next week.Quality has been good with an occasional report of soft or shriveling berry in a pack. New Jersey has start production this week with peek production out of this area forecast for the end of the month. We are only a few weeks away from harvesting out of the Pacific North West area.
Raspberries
Light supplies are forecast for the remainder of this week and next as volume has been lost due to high wind and warmer temps. Production out of Mexico has lightened thus increasing pressure on the California market.
Blackberries
Supplies out of California seemed to survive the ever changing weather we have been experiencing and we should see an increase of supplies over the next couple of weeks. The warmer temps forecast for California will lead to some excellent promotional pricing and opportunities. The supplies out of Georgia and North Carolina were expected to be on the rise this week but have been limited due to rain. Once the warmer weather returns, volumes are expected to increase quickly.
Cantaloupes

The heat this week in the CA and AZ deserts has greatly curtailed the harvest of melons as crews could not work beyond 9:00 AM without serious risk of heat stroke.  Some growers were finishing as well. Rains the Southeast virtually halted production of Athena melons.  Thus we went from an ample to abundant supply of fruit to a severe shortage.  Demand was robust as promotions had been set prior to the heat wave and prices going into it were reasonable.  Thus we find ourselves in a demand far exceeding supply situation and prices soared accordingly.  Sizes peaked on 9s then job 9s with some 12s, but again there was nothing for sale on the open market.  Next week, even if the heat abates, product should be short and expensive as the supply pipeline is emptying our and needs to be refilled.  San Joaquin Valley will be starting shortly after July 4th, but planting gaps from winter and spring rains will make supplies from there inconsistent as they did vegetables early in the coastal regions.  Market should stay strong and tight at least thru the middle of next week and probably beyond.
Honeydews
Honeydews and even watermelon harvest was affected by the heat as well.  There was not much supply this year due to lighter plantings already and the weather has exacerbated the shortage greatly.  Like lopes, honeydew demand greatly exceeded very light supplies and prices soared accordingly.  Bakersfield is starting Friday but there in but one small grower in that region. Huron and the San Joaquin will follow but not until the last week of June or first week  in July. Markets should stay short and strong until then.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Broccoli and Cauliflower production continues to be  steady as  the market has settled at sustainable levels.
OG  Herbs & Bunch Greens
Most of the Herbs and Bunching Greens continue with improving supplies.  Quality continues  to be very nice with occasional intermittent shortages. Expect Local Homegrown supplies to start increasing which will  lessen the dependence on West Coast supplies.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Supplies have improved on  green and redleaf  as  well as  Romaine from Central Valley and Salinas.  Markets have fully retreated to lower levels and are now offering value as  they compete with  homegrown.
OG Root Vegetables

Carrots production continues to be strong  although Wind and heat  are starting to hamper harvest and quality . Potato and Onion demand has also been good with White, Yellow and Red  Onion supplies improving from Southern and Central California with good quality.  ​
OG Citrus
Steady but light production with mostly larger profiles  continue on Lemons with good demand keeping prices elevated especially on smaller sizes. Valencia production has started to ramp up with  improving availability. Peruvian Limes are in full swing with excellent quality.
OG Melons
Central Valley Watermelons  are underway  after a delayed start .  Demand is  very good  heading into the 4th of July Holiday. Cantaloupes and Honeydews production has  taken a hit with  soaring temperatures in the desert  and  Westside production not expected for another couple weeks. Most growers are 10+ days behind schedule but forecast call for hot temperatures inland which  should get plants moving.  There is a chance temperatures exceed  healthy  growing conditions and actually damage crops  by mid next week .  We’ll keep you updated  on changing market conditions.
OG Berries
Production from  Salinas and Watsonville continue  but sizing and quality have been hampered by high wind and temperatures.  The market has started to firm and will continue to do so through the  4th  of July  holiday.   Quality has been varied with most shippers now quoting bruising on ALL deliveries and many shippers showing varied color among packs due to inconsistent labor supply .

6/7/17

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Lettuce

Production eased slightly allowing the market to rise to start the week but demand  has yet to improve significantly which helped  keep  prices moderated. Quality from Salinas and Santa Maria  has been mostly good  with some lots showing tip burn, insect pressure and mildew. The  market is expected to  continue to vary among shippers with cool  coastal temperatures  and warm inland valleys affecting shippers differently.
Mix Leaf
Romaine market  remains flat with mixed demand and increasing pressure from homegrown supplies while demand for Hearts  continues to be strong with limited  homegrown pressure.  Quality has been very good  with mildew and fringe burn showing on occasion. Green and Red leaf  are also showing variable quality around the Valley with some shippers already in their reduced summer acreage. Local Homegrown production areas are starting to improve and will continue to put pressure on California market to remain steady.
Brussels Sprouts
 Production continues mostly from Mexico which continues to battle  insect  pressure although quality has  improved this week. The market remains strong for good quality. Supplies are expected to improve as domestic production starts from  Central Coast later this month.
Celery
 This market is softening and pricing is correcting daily. Demand is coming off and production out of Santa Maria is improving.  We could see this market back to normal pricing by late next week as retails slide and volume continues to grow.  Salinas production is beginning, although very light numbers. The thought of Salinas and Michigan seasons being only days away is helping spur the market correction this week. Also, with DOT enforcement over the next few days, freight rates are much higher this week than previous weeks.  Freight heavy items like celery are certainly affected by this. Expect price correction to continue through next week.
We will have celery available out of Mexico at the end of this week shipping out of Pharr, Tx….Sizing will be mostly 24 and 30’s with a few 18’s and 36’s.  Check with your sales representative for pricing.
Oranges
The Navel crop is finished and the industry is now strictly Valencias.  This market remains strong during the transition of varieties. Early quality reports are positive with good color and structure with adequate sugar content.  This market could get stronger during the summer months as demand picks up, with lighter overall volume expected than in years past.
Broccoli
Steady as she goes!!! It has seem to hit a comfortable trading level over the last couple of weeks and there is no indication that will change going into next week.  Bunch broccoli is trading in the $9.00 – $10.00 + range and crowns both domestic and short cut in the mid $10.00 – $12.00 + range.  There also is steady volume available out of Mexico crossing in Texas.  Quality has been good in both California and Mexico.  California will afford a darker green color and slightly smaller stalks and beads
Cauliflower
This commodity continues to bounce around with price and availability and there seems to be a wide range in pricing depending on each shippers availability.  The last few weeks we have seen some aggressive pricing early on in the week and then by midweek supplies seem to lighten up and prices increase.  Quality has been pretty nice overall. There is some creaminess and the occasional blemish. Currently sizing is on the larger size with predominately 12 and 9 size and just a few 16’s..
Artichokes

Seeded varieties are starting to increase with larger sizing profiles expected although demand  has diminished  entering the Summer season.
Asparagus
Domestic supplies from the Central Coast are decreasing but Washington and new crop Mexican production are  increasing along with increased offshore supplies from Peru allowing the market  to continue to offer value.
Strawberries
Demand has been fairly light and overall quality is improving.  The main defect continues to be bruising, but we expect to see improvements in quality next week. The market remains split with the Watsonville area getting a $1.00 premium than the berries out of Santa Maria. The weather for the weekend will be mostly  sunny skies with highs in the 70’s  and lows in the 50’s.
Blueberries
We will see increased volume this week out of California and North Carolina. North Carolina and Georgia will finish by the end of June. California’s volume will be good for the next 2 weeks. New Jersey will be starting in July.
Raspberries
We are in the middle of peak production and suppliers will be looking to move at promotable pricing.  Good Supplies and quality will be available thru the 3rd week of June.
Blackberries
California blackberries have started in a very small way as the market is predominately product out of Mexico. Better supplies s of the California berries will not be until the 1st week of July.
Sunshine Berries
There will promotable opportunities on gold and blush colored raspberries thru next weeks. Quality has been excellent!
Cantaloupes
After a two week siege of abundant supplies, overlapping production areas and accumulation of large sizing, the cantaloupe market has finally appeared to bottom out and has started to rise, if only a bit.  After hitting  low prices Monday and Tuesday, retailers began to notice the value of featuring them and old area product cleaned out of the pipeline, greatly helping demand. Trucks rates and availability were still an issue which was exacerbated by the DOT week in California. Sizes are still skewing large, but starting to peak more on regular 9s than Jbo 9s.  Next week some early heavy producers will be on the wane, but new areas such as Phoenix and Blythe should keep supplies ample.  The market looks to be about one to two dollars higher next week where it should settle and be relatively stable.  By the end of June desert will be finishing up and Westside should start, but rain caused planting gaps and whipsaw price changes as we experienced with vegetables this spring.  Be careful about booking July ads.
Honeydews
Light supplies continued to be the case for domestic honeydews again this week. Offshore supplies cleaned out of the pipeline and Mexican production stumbled.  Thus the market stayed firm and rose a bit by midweek.  We see little change next week.  It seems plantings are much lighter this year with no great supply increases.  Sizes should continue to peak on 5s and 6s, which are the two most desirable retail sizes. Market should be steady next week.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Broccoli and Cauliflower production has finally started to improve. This will help with demand as  retailers can start to offer promotions.
OG  Herbs & Bunch Greens
Most of the Herbs and Bunching Greens continue with improving supplies.  Quality continues  to be very nice with occasional intermittent shortages. Expect Local Homegrown supplies to start increasing which will  lessen the dependence on West Coast supplies.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Supplies have improved on  Green and Red leaf  as  well as  Romaine from  the Central Valley and Salinas.  Markets have fully retreated to lower levels and are now offering value as  they compete with  Homegrown.
OG Root Vegetables

Carrots production will be strong for the next few weeks . Potato and Onion demand has also been good with White, Yellow and Red  Onion supplies improving from Southern and Central California with good  quality.  ​
OG Citrus
Steady production with mostly larger profiles  continue on Lemons  with good demand keeping prices elevated. Valencia production has started to ramp up with  improving availability. Peruvian Limes are in full swing with excellent quality.
OG Melons
Watermelons, Cantaloupes and Honeydews are starting to wind down from Mexico and domestic production is underway in the desert . Westside production is still a few weeks away.  We’ll keep you updated as  promotional pricing becomes available.

5/31/17

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Lettuce

Salinas and Santa Maria  production continues to level out while demand has been varied. Quality has been as good as we’ve seen in months in some cases although tipburn, insect and mildew continue to be present. The  market has ferris wheeled among shippers and could react with any improvement in demand.  The weather forecast continues with cool  coastal temperatures  and warm inland valleys. This pattern can contribute to the inconsistent quality and supplies among shippers with varying land bases.
Mix Leaf
Romaine market  remains flat with mixed demand and increasing pressure from homegrown supplies while  hearts  continue steady with only limited  homegrown pressure. Quality has been very good  with mildew and fringe burn showing on occasion. Green and Redleaf  are also showing variable quality around the valley.  Local Homegrown production areas are starting to improve and will continue to put pressure on California market to remain steady.
Brussels Sprouts
Production continues from Mexico and Central California with declining quality due to heavy insect pressure leading to a decrease in supplies. The market remains strong for good quality.   Supplies are expected to  continue to lighten well into June.
Celery
This market remains strong as we head into June. Pricing is believed to be nearing its peak although there is still a demand exceeds supply scenario through next week. Salinas production has started with very light numbers, although this will not affect the market until volume picks up and pressure is taken off Oxnard and Santa Maria areas. Recent cool temperatures will further slow production.
We will have celery available out of Mexico at the end of this week shipping out of Pharr, Tx….Sizing will be mostly 24 and 30’s with a few 18’s and 36’s.  Check with your sales representative for pricing.
Oranges
Valencias are now in full production and we are seeing nice fruit. Volume is less than last year and shippers are keeping more product on the tree to cover future orders.  We expect this market to remain strong through the summer as inventories diminish and less product harvested.   Also as a result, we will see more large sized fruit in inventory throughout the summer and fewer small sizes.
Broccoli
We have seemed to reach a trading level where demand is meeting supply at the same rate.  Current pricing will remain for the rest of the week and we could see crown cut prices rise slightly.  Quality has been nice.  The domes have a nice green color and the beads are tight, slightly branchy but overall pretty good quality.
Cauliflower
Product seems to be moving through the pipeline fairly smoothly.  The current prices seem to have hit the floor and we could see a slight increase by the end of the week.  Quality is very nice, good white domes with very little blemishes.
Artichokes

Production for the Heirloom/ Green Globe  variety is  winding down and the seeded varieties are starting to increase with larger sizing profiles expected.
Asparagus
Domestic supplies from the Central Coast are decreasing but Washington and new crop Mexican production are  increasing along with increased offshore supplies from Peru allowing the market to ease.
Strawberries

We experienced an unexpected change in weather patterns in the Salinas Watsonville area on Mondayand it certainly kept  pricing firm in the north with some discount pricing occurring in the south. Cooler and damp conditions has slowed production in the Salinas / Watsonville areas. Some quality defects that have been reported this week are white shoulders, bruising and some dry calyx. Strawberry counts are mostly 14-16 for the Monterey variety and fairing better than most of the other varieties  Peak production is about 2 weeks away as long as the weather cooperates.
Cantaloupes
Off shore ended shipping and were no longer a competing factor for domestic fruit. Athenas continued to ship.  Yet the leftover supply from the Caribbean Basin lasted long enough to interfere with the Memorial Holiday demand.  Also, freight rates were very high crimping demand for western product as well. Supplies surged as everyone got underway. keeping a cap on prices. Sizes kept peaking on 9s and Jbo 9s.  Next week supplies look to continue their ample ways and sizes look to stay large. Freight rates could ease a bit as we get past the Holiday disruptions and more tucks drift west to take advantage of the increased demand for their services.  All this could help demand making allowing the market to improve a bit.
Honeydews
It feels as if may less honeydews were planted this year. Mexico kept producing. Off shores were done. Freight rates were high. Sizes peaked on 5s and 6s.  Demand was tepid in the face of reasonably priced cantaloupes. Prices rose a bit but only moderately.  Next week we should see steady to slightly higher prices.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Broccoli and Cauliflower production has finally started in improve which will help with demand as  retailers can start to offer promotions.
OG  Herbs & Bunch Greens
Most of the Herbs and Bunching Greens continue with improving supplies.  Quality continues  to be very nice with occasional intermittent shortages. Expect Local Homegrown supplies to start increasing which will  lessen the dependence on West Coast supplies.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Supplies have improved on  green and redleaf  but romaine continues to see sporadic supplies  from Central Valley and Salinas.  Markets are slowly retreating to a more sustainable level with homegrown offerings expected to increase in coming weeks.
OG Root Vegetables

Carrots production will be strong for the next few weeks . Potato and Onion demand has also been good with White, Yellow and Red  Onion supplies improving from Southern  and Central California with good  quality.
OG Citrus
Steady production with mostly larger profiles  continue on Lemons  with good demand for export keeping pressure on the market to remain active. Valencia production has started to ramp up with  improving availability. Peruvian Limes are in full swing with excellent quality.
OG Melons
Watermelons , Cantaloupes and Honeydews are starting to wind down from Mexico and domestic production is just starting in the desert .  Production should transition to Central California in a couple weeks.  We’ll keep you updated as  promotional pricing becomes available

5/25/17

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Lettuce

 Production  from Salinas and Santa Maria continues to be steady for the industry but varies widely among  shippers with a few below budgeted volume and some with heavy volume. Overall quality is good  but also varied among  shippers.Tip burn, insect and mildew has been present in the Valley. The weather is slowly returning to normal with cooler  coastal temperatures  and warm inland valleys. This pattern can contribute to the inconsistent supplies among shippers with varying land bases.
Mix Leaf
Romaine and Heart markets  remain  steady  with mixed demand.  Production will continue to vary as some  shippers are still experiencing sporadic harvest schedules interrupted by Spring rains. This may result in markets firming next week.  Quality has been very good  with mildew and fringe burn showing on occasion. Green and Red leaf  are also showing variable quality around the valley.  Local Homegrown production areas are starting to improve and will continue to put pressure on California market to remain steady.
Brussels Sprouts
Production continues from Mexico and Central California with declining quality due to heavy insect pressure leading to a decrease in supplies. The market remains strong for good quality.   Supplies are expected to  continue to lighten through June.
Celery
This market is red hot and continues to gain momentum.  Planting gaps have caused a demand exceeds supply  scenario over the past few weeks. This trend is expected to last for another two weeks until Salinas production begins.  Early reports show no significant celery volume coming out of the Salinas Valley until the middle of June and we expect strong markets until then.  Seeder remains to be an issue in Oxnard.
We will have celery available out of Mexico at the end of this week shipping out of Pharr, Tx….Sizing will be mostly 24 and 30’s with a few 18’s and 36’s.  Check with your sales representative for pricing.
Oranges
With navels finishing up, Valencia volume is much lighter than it had been this time last year. Growers are stating that they have not seen this light of numbers in many years and volumes are expected to be down at least 25% by July. This should make for a strong Valencia market over the coming summer months particularly on smaller sizes.  Quality has been nice.
Broccoli
Market may have found a comfortable trading level.  Demand still remains stronger for the bunch product and prices are reflective of this.  Bunch product is trading $2.00 – $4.00 higher than crowns.  The Mexico volume has definitely declined  sending East coast customers out West to procure product.  Look for the current pricing to settle and remain unchanged into next week.
Cauliflower
The roller coaster ride continues.  Towards the end of last week prices dropped into the single digits and then rebounded quickly this week and are now trading in the low teens.  It feels like demand and supply are about equal right now and we should not see much more of an increase in price.  Again this up and down pricing is still reflective of planting gaps that occurred during the winter rains.
Artichokes

 Production for the Heirloom/ Green Globe  variety is  winding down and the seeded varieties are starting to increase with larger sizing profiles expected.
Asparagus
 Domestic supplies from the Central Coast are decreasing but the North West and Baja  production are beginning to increase along with increased offshore supplies from Peru allowing the market to ease.
Strawberries

Watsonville and Salinas are expected to have some mild weather this week with temperatures ranging in the high 60s low 70s. Strawberry quality is looking good for the most part, with most fruit at 12-14 count. The main defect we are preventing is green fruit, but mild temperatures this week should improve this issue. Volume is predicted to jump each week, with our peak hitting in June.
Raspberries and Blackberries

Raspberries are looking great with fields full of flowers, with steady volume the next few weeks. Blackberry volume is increasing weekly with more good fruit on the way. Last week Santa Maria was relatively chilly with temperatures ranging in the upper 50s – low 60s with winds up to 40 mph. A warming trend began to emerge later into the week, with weekend highs hitting the upper 70s lower 80s. This week, we can expect weather to fluctuate into the high 60s lower 70s with the potential of more wind. San Andreas and Monterey are looking firm with good color at 18-24 count, with minimal bruising due to the high winds. Organic San Andreas are at their peak, and couldn’t be any better. Fronteras are slightly smaller at 22-26 count, and are a little soft. However, with a 2-3 cycle this variety should stay decent in quality. Volume is expected to slowly decline the next few weeks, and labor is getting tight, with some consistent no-shows on Monday’s and Saturday’s.
Blueberries
Weather this week in the central valley is going to be mild and temperate, with blueberries in this region expecting to hit their peaks during the next 10-12 days. Georgia may see chances of rain and thunderstorms early in the week, with warm sunny weather to follow. Some northern varieties at the end of next week will be begin to pop up and there will be a steady supply for 2 weeks to 3 weeks.
Cantaloupes
The transition from off shore to domestic has completed with the Caribbean no longer shipping. however the backlog of their product has been clogging the supply chain all week. In addition, Athena melons have begun shipping from Florida.  Production kicked into full gear this week in Yuma and the Imperial Valley. Sizes were peaking on 9s and Jbo 9s. Demand for domestic melons was sluggish due to the backlog of Caribbean fruit.  Thus the market drifted downward all week. Next week the supply chain should be rid or nearly rid of the off shore fruit. Athena melons will continue to ship and Blythe and Phoenix areas will kick in. Thus, supplies will remain ample.  Demand should pick up once buyers get used to higher freight rates associated with western product.  We look for a steady to lower market early next week with improved demand and a leveling of prices by mid to end of the week.
Honeydews
All the factors affected demand for cantaloupes were in place for honeydew melons. However instead of Florida, Mexican product was shipping good volume.  Sizes peaked on 5s and 6s.  The market drifted downward to affordable levels by mid week.  Next week  Blythe and Phoenix will enter the picture, Mexico will continue to produce and domestic product will be ample.  We look for a dull and slightly lower to steady market next week.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
 Broccoli and Cauliflower production has finally started in improve which will help with demand as  retailers can start offer promotions.
OG  Herbs & Bunch Greens
Most of the Herbs and Bunching Greens continue with improving supplies.  Quality continues  to be very nice with occasional intermittent shortages. Expect Local Homegrown supplies to start increasing which will  lessen the dependence on West Coast supplies.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Supplies have improved on Green and Red leaf  but Romaine continues to see sporadic supplies  from Central Valley and Salinas.  Markets are slowly retreating to a more sustainable level with homegrown offerings expected to increase in coming weeks.
OG Root Vegetables

Carrots production will be strong for the next few weeks . Potato and Onion demand has also been good with White, Yellow and Red  Onion supplies improving from Southern and Central California with good quality.  ​
OG Citrus
Steady production with mostly larger profiles  continue on Lemons  with good demand for export keeping pressure on the market to remain active. Valencia production has started to ramp up with  improving availability. Peruvian Limes are in full swing with excellent quality.
OG Melons
Watermelons, Cantaloupes, and Honeydews are starting to wind down from Mexico and domestic production is right around the corner.  We will keep you updated as promotional pricing becomes available.