Newsletter 6/19/19

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Lettuce
Weather continues to be the dominate factor affecting supplies. Growers have been well ahead budgeted harvest schedules and late Spring rains along with last weeks heatwave combined to delay and reduce yields. Even with reduced production demand remains moderate while prices continue to surge indicating strong food service demand . We expect supplies to remain light into next week with markets likely peaked at current levels with downside.  Quality is variable with a wide array of issues including tipburn, sun scald, mildew , color and solidity.
Mix Leaf
Romaine and Romaine Hearts have also been influenced by weather events and supplies are gapping with very good demand currently resulting in market spikes. Quality will continue to vary with Tipburn, seeder, mildew and twist prevalent. Green leaf and Red leaf prices, although varied among shippers, also surged mostly higher. Regional Homegrown production, including Eastern Canada is expected to begin which should lessen demand out West and keep prices from surging much higher.
Brussels Sprouts
Production from Mexico continues with domestic production increasing as well. Expect the market to catch at more sustainable prices but shippers are currently entertaining sharp deals to enhance demand. Quality has been variable with some insect pressure common in Mexico supplies.
Strawberries
Yields declined dramatically this weeks as high temps forced shippers to strip some plants and send some fields to the juicers. Some shippers are reporting that they are losing approximately 30% of the daily estimated harvest. At this point, they are not seeing any extensive damage to the green/white fruit or blooms which is a good thing. Most of what is being thrown down is red hanging fruit that has been affected by the heat and will not travel. Shippers are working diligently to produce the best possible pack, but with back to back days of over 100-degree weather, shippers will be quoting heavy bruising at shipping point. These conditions exist in both growing areas. Markets look to be steady and firm moving into the weekend with very little open market fruit available.
Blackberries
The majority of supplies are coming from California, Georgia and North Carolina. The quality has been good out of California. The Georgia product has struggled with some weather issues but still remains fair. The market will continue to remain firm into next week.
Raspberries
 Supplies will be out of California. Expect to see berries supplies on Mexican raspberries this week. Quality has been good, however we have just received a heat wave which could affect the fruit negatively. Look for possible defects like soft fruit, bruising and wet and leaky berries for the next few days.
Blueberries
Good supplies in California, Georgia, and North Carolina. Quality has been good in all regions. The California crop did receive some extreme temps over the past few days. market remains soft as the various regions vie for market share. Oregon will begin to increase volume next week.
Cauliflower
Stronger markets this week as a result of last weeks heat wave. 100+ degree temperatures reduced yields and affected quality. Markets have strengthened and expected to continue into next week. Temperatures have settled back to normal June averages for the next 10 days, which will improve quality and help keep up with increasing demand.
Squash
Good quality reported on Italian and Yellow squash this week. Better volume is coming out of Santa Maria and Fresno as a result of warmer weather across the state. More deals are being made on Italian squash, as yellow squash production has been lighter over the past three days. Product is also coming out of Baja California and quality has been nice.
Celery
Volume is increasing daily in Salinas and Santa Maria. Oxnard is still in full production. Markets are softening from last weeks as expected. These markets should continue trending downward as demand slows and Salinas production increases. Some issues have been reported, including bowing, leafy tops and slight seeder.
Broccoli
Recent heat of the central coast has resulted in lighter volumes. Yields were impacted almost immediately after 100+ temperatures in the Salinas Valley. Markets have strengthened and some quality defects, including purpling and mechanical defects have been reported. Mild temperatures are in the forecast for the coming week, which should improve volume and settle markets.
Artichokes
Production has been decreasing as we enter Summer month but supplies are expected to jump on Seeded or thornless varieties especially larger sizes with continued limited supplies of the Heirloom variety.
Onions
California…Jumbo Yellow Onions are demand exceed supply. The Yellow onions being harvested this week are at best a hit and miss proposition. One shipper I talked to said he had a basil fusarin rot occurring in almost every onion they tried to harvest…they had to walk past a 30-acre block that was due to be harvested this week. Some shippers that didn’t get as much rain during the late May rains are getting decent arrivals but if you look closely there is some decay present. Market is running about $14.00 16 with delayed loading. Those who took contracts are feeling a lot of pressure to ship their commitments.
Jumbo Reds are in the $14 range and are also in a sold-out situation.
New Mexico has started shipping again this week and have jumped to the $15-$16.00 range and is also demand exceed supply. The varieties grown in New Mexico are more tolerant to rain than the varieties grown in California which are susceptible to rain conditions.
Whites Market is being quoted at quoted as low as $16-18 and are sold out too.
Stone Fruit
Come and get it. For the next 4-5 weeks, we are into the peak production period for California Stone Fruit. Peaches, Nectarines, Plums, Apricots, and Pluots are all being harvested. Quality and condition is improving and and the fruit is eating well. All sizes seem to be readily available with aggressive pricing on small size fruit. We expect the market to be steady to slightly lower for the coming week.
Grapes
Like expected, extremely heavy grape volumes are being harvest as we hit peak production from Mexico and Coachella.  Aggressive deals are made daily. This will continue as both areas look to move their bountiful crop in such a short window of time.  Quality is good. On the Red Seedless, more medium size berries are being packed but all sizes are available to load. All sizes are available on Green Seedless with the peak size being Large.
Green Onions
Production continues exclusively from Mexico with ample supplies. Reduced Summer plantings will eventually lead to tighter markets by the end of the month. Overall quality remains varied with heavy insect pressure and mechanical damage.
Citrus
Oranges – We have only a few weeks left in the California Navel season. These late variety Navels are coming in large peaking on 72/56’s.  Other sizes are readily available except for 113/138’s.  Prices continue to creep higher. On 113/138’s, many customers have made the switch to Valencia Oranges. Valencias supplies continue to improve as more shipper are packing.
Lemons – No real change expected for next week. Ample supplies of 75’s and 95’s with some deals available on fancy and Choice. Mid range sizes (115/140’s) are hold firmer on good demand. 165’s and smaller are very tight and markets continue to trend upward. Quality is good with very little standard grade being packed. Mexican Lemons crossing into McAllen, Texas, are peaking on 140/165’s.
Limes – Volume on limes is good and all sizes are abundant at this time. The market on 110/150’s may move lower as supplies continue to increase. All other sizes should be steady next week. There is a wide range of quality out there with some lots showing oil spotting issues do to the recent rains.
Asparagus
Shipping locally grown as this juncture and will come back to California shipping Mexican asparagus from San Miguel de Allende Mexico.
Cantaloupes
After a siege of large size, both volume and sizing seem to be normalizing. Less Jbo 9s and more regular 9s and even a few more 12s have lead to a bit lower carton yield. At the same time the bargain basement pricing seems to have finally sparked some retail demand as summer began in earnest around the country with schools getting out for summer. Thus by this writing the worst seems to be over the lope market and prices began to stabilize and even rise a tad. It is hot in the desert which could lead to an earlier than anticipated wrap up of the harvest there, but there is still another 10 days or two weeks to go. Bakersfield and the Huron are starting next week, but scrapping, with the rest of the Westside coming online the week of the 4th. The July 4th pull will start next week. We look for a moderately stronger market next week with sizes continuing to peak on 9 count and good quality.
Honeydews
Production remained ample on dews this week, especially with Mexico continuing its production. Sizes peaked on 5s then 6s with fewer other sizes available. Quality was good to very good domestically with a range from Mexico. Next week little looks to change. However toward the middle or end of next week, we could see Mexico begin to abate and July 4th pull should begin. Bakersfield and Huron could star scrapping toward the end of the week. We look for a slightly improved market developing as next week unfolds.
Honeydews
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Organic Items
OG Broccoli and Cauliflower
Cauliflower   Improved production has helped ease pricing although supplies are expected to level off and the market is expected to stabilize. Quality has been good with some variations in color due to heatwave last week which exposed some heads to the sun.
Broccoli    Production finally improved and the market retreated to more sustainable levels. Quality issues from the heat are starting to show with brown bead and increased insect pressure.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Most Herbs and Bunching Green production remain varied with some quality issues affecting supplies but improved weather should help improve quality. Expect supplies to remain unstable as they grow through quality issues from recent heatwave.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine demand continues to be strong  Production is likely to be impacted by the recent heatwave in the Coastal growing areas of California. Expect volatility for the duration of the month.
OG Citrus
Lemons:   Steady, Light production with sizing profile continuing to lean towards larger fruit. The market continues to be strong especially the smaller, foodservice sizes.
Oranges  Valencia’s offerings continue strong as with most citrus  larger sizes continue to be prevalent. We expect prices to remain competitive on Larger fruit although smaller sizes will remain limited at elevated pricing.
Limes:  Supplies are improving with sizing profile increasing although quality continues to be fair.
Grapefruit:  Predominantly Large sized fruit continues to be available with limited smaller fruit due to previous rains and now excessive heat.
OG Avocados
Mexico: Strong demand with limited supplies are expected to continue through June when the seasonal production surge in late June is expected.
California: Season continues with limited production. Expect supplies to be much lower than previous years.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady with improving supplies . Demand has been very strong. Continue to plan ahead to get full coverage. Some damage to the tops is expected from recent high temperatures.
Potato Strong demand and steady production on Gold and especially Red with Russet production  expected to improve by the end of the month
Onion demand remains strong although production is expected to improve in coming weeks
OG Grapes
Mexico: Supplies of Green and red grapes continue from Mexico with mostly Smaller sizing profile and reduced pricing.
California: Season is expected to have a bumper crop as it ramps up in coming weeks with pricing expected to settle .Quality has been excellent from Domestic supplies.

Newsletter 6/12/19

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Lettuce
Recent Heatwave throughout California has interrupted already reduced lettuce supplies and will likely affect younger plants for the duration of the month. The past few days crews have been limited to partial harvest due to excessive heat. A return to more moderate temperatures is forecast for the end of the week but the short term damage is done . Expect elevated prices to remain until damage can be assessed. Quality had been improving but expect heat related issues including sun and tip burn as well as pale color and varied weights.

Mix Leaf
Excessive high temperatures forced reduced harvest and subsequent damage has pushed the market steeply higher. Demand for Romaine Hearts has been especially strong. Expect elevated prices to remain while growers assess damage to younger plantings.   Quality had been improving but expect to see increased issues with Tip burn and discoloration. Green leaf and Red leaf prices surged higher as well due to reduced supplies as a result of limited harvest hours.Regional Homegrown production is expected to begin soon which will lessen demand out West and keep a lid on pricing.

Brussels Sprouts
Production from Mexico continues to be limited although domestic production has begun and has added enough supplies to significantly ease pricing. Expect the market to catch at more sustainable prices but shippers are currently entertaining sharp deals to enhance demand.

Strawberries
Yields declined dramatically this weeks as high temps forced shippers to strip some plants and send some fields to the juicers. Some shippers are reporting that they are losing approximately 30% of the daily estimated harvest. At this point, they are not seeing any extensive damage to the green/white fruit or blooms which is a good thing. Most of what is being thrown down is red hanging fruit that has been affected by the heat and will not travel. Shippers are working diligently to produce the best possible pack, but with back to back days of over 100-degree weather, shippers will be quoting heavy bruising at shipping point. These conditions exist in both growing areas. Markets look to be steady and firm moving into the weekend with very little open market fruit available.

Blackberries
The majority of supplies are coming from California, Georgia and North Carolina. The quality has been good out of California. The Georgia product has struggled with some weather issues but still remains fair. The market will continue to remain firm into next week.

Raspberries
Supplies will be out of California. Expect to see berries supplies on Mexican raspberries this week. Quality has been good, however we have just received a heat wave which could affect the fruit negatively. Look for possible defects like soft fruit, bruising and wet and leaky berries for the next few days.

Blueberries
Good supplies in California, Georgia, and North Carolina. Quality has been good in all regions. The California crop did receive some extreme temps over the past few days. market remains soft as the various regions vie for market share. Oregon will begin to increase volume next week.

Cauliflower
Prices are at near bottom and shippers are looking for business both in Santa Maria and Salinas, the market could get off the floor by the end of the week if shippers start to see a reduction in yields due to the warm weather in all California growing regions. Due to the high temperatures we have had over the last four days we could start to see some quality defects such as yellowing and soft shoulders. Dome size has been 6-8″.

Squash
Product is available in multiple growing areas, including Coastal California, inland California, and Baja. Markets that have been sluggish for the past couple of months are now starting to turn around due to hotter temperatures. Quality is good overall, although some reports have been fair at best due to 100 + degree temperatures.

Celery
Strong markets continue this week, although there is better volume industry wide. Oxnard volume is improving and Salinas is slowly starting production this week. Schools are out for the summer and demand should start to ease in the coming week. Expect markets to ease in the coming days. Good quality industry wide, although some isolated incidents of seeder and leafy tops have been reported.

Broccoli
The warmer weather we have experienced the last four days has not had any effect on the broccoli crop. There is good availability especially on crown cuts. Look for this to be the situation going into next week. Quality is good. Crowns have generally been 2-4″ in length with a 4-6″ dome, some light purpling and spread on the dome.

Artichokes
Production has been decreasing as we enter Summer month but supplies continue to be available mostly on Seeded or thorn less varieties with limited supplies of the Heirloom variety.

Onions
California…Jumbo Yellow Onions are finished in the Imperial Valley. The central Valley has started in a very light way and the quality is suspect at this point with shippers reluctant to go too far east. Hot temperatures have taken a toll on the quality, and most shippers are only loading refrigerated trucks. The market on Jumbos is in the $12-14 range and $12 on 25# jumbo Reds.

New Mexico has started and is in the $12- $14 range on Jumbos and $13 on 25# Reds…unfortunately there was a very heavy rain in the growing area and the quality will suffer because of the extra moisture…

Whites Market is being quoted at quoted as low as $14.00

Stone Fruit
In general,  we are finally reaching good production on California Stone Fruit. . Packouts are improving.  We are seeing better sugar levels and the color is coming on nicely. It’s time to promote! Look to sell beautiful large size Yellow Peaches, the sweetest Yellow Nectarines of the season, and the large supply of great eating White Flesh Peach and Nectarines over next 2-3 weeks.

Grapes
The Mexican and Coachella Grape harvest is now in full stride. Expect heavy volumes to be picked and packed over the next 3 weeks. Prices are easing and aggressive promotions will be available.  Quality and condition is good. For those of you looking for something special, consider the many proprietary varieties with jumbo size berries. Call us for the details.

Green Onions
Production continues exclusively from Mexico with ample supplies. Reduced Summer plantings will eventually lead to tighter markets by the end of the month. Overall quality remains varied with heavy insect pressure and mechanical damage.

Citrus
Navel Oranges- As we march to the end of the California Navel season, expect very tight supplies of 113/138’s and a peak on 56’s. There is a wide range in quality out there with some lots heavy to wind scarring and puff. Look for prices on the Navels to continue to creep up as we finish the season. For the transition, know that California Valencia Oranges are currently being pack with good demand on 113/138’s.

Lemons-  Not much change in the California Lemon market expected for the coming week. Good supplies of 75’s and 95’s with some deals available. Mid range sizes (115/140’s) are hold firmer on good demand.  Small fruit (165’s and smaller) is very tight and markets continue to trend upward. Quality is good with very little standard grade being packed. A few Mexican Lemons are crossing into McAllen, Texas, peaking on 140/165’s

Limes- Supplies of Mexican limes continue to improve especially on the larger sizes.  Prices on the large sizes are easing and will continue to move lower. The opposite is true on the small sizes where the market on 230’s & 250’s has firmed up off the bottom. On quality, there is a wide range of quality coming in from Mexico with many lots having to be re-graded before they are shipped out. Be cautious.

Asparagus
Shipping locally grown as this juncture and will come back to California shipping Mexican asparagus from San Miguel de Allende Mexico.

Cantaloupes
The impending surge in production came to fruition as all desert areas started and harvested at full tilt. Hot weather brought long waiting fields to maturity. Quality remained excellent. Sizes kept peaking on 9s and Jbo 9s with few 12s and scant 15s. Demand was good but somewhat hampered by expensive transportation as the full array of summer fruit competed for space. Also falling prices starting last weekend kept buyers on edge and shopping but not necessarily buying. Thus the market fell and discount deals were abounding.  By this writing however, it appeared buyers were getting more comfortable with the lower pricing and started to clean up their higher priced inventories, perking up demand a bit. Yet production remained prodigious and with hot weather expected all next week that does not look to be changing. Demand should stay fairly good and toward the end of next week or the beginning of the following week some early July 4th sales could start shipping. We look for a reasonably price market to continue with improving demand as next week unfolds. The last week in June or early July, the desert will wind down and with planting gaps from spring rains along we could the market dramatically improve.

Honeydews
Like cantaloupes, production came into full bloom this week on honeydews. Appearance, condition and brix all were quite good. Mexico also continued its hardy harvest. Sizes peaked on 5s, followed by 6s then Jbo 5s. 8s were primarily from Mexico. Demand was hampered by competition from cheap cantaloupes and Mexican product along with expensive transportation. Thus the market foundered and limped along at steady to lower prices with discounts offered on peak sizes. Next week little should change, except Mexico could abate somewhat, leading to less discounting.

Mix:

No real change with scattered varieties and sizes. Quality overall was okay. Demand was adequate and prices were steady with some discounting here and there.

 
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Organic Items

OG Broccoli and Cauliflower
Cauliflower   Markets have been pushed higher . Limited production and weather related interruptions in Northern California  continue to impact supplies. We expect better supplies in coming weeks with improved weather

Broccoli    Production on broccoli continues to be light but is expected to improve in coming weeks.

OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Most Herbs and Bunching Green production remain varied with some quality issues affecting supplies but improved weather should help improve quality. Expect supplies to remain unstable as they grow through quality issues from recent heatwave.

OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine demand continues to be strong  Production is likely to be impacted by the recent heatwave in the Coastal growing areas of California. Expect volatility for the duration of the month.

OG Citrus
 Lemons:   Steady, Light production with sizing profile continuing to lean towards larger fruit. The market continues to be strong especially the smaller,  foodservice sizes.

Oranges  Valencia’s offerings continue strong as with most citrus  larger sizes continue to be prevalent. We expect prices to remain competitive on Larger fruit although smaller sizes will remain limited at elevated pricing.

Limes:  Supplies are improving with sizing profile increasing although quality continues to be fair.

Grapefruit:  Predominantly Large sized fruit continues to be available with limited smaller fruit due to previous rains and now excessive heat.

OG Avocados 
 Mexico: Strong demand with limited supplies are expected to continue through June when the seasonal production surge in late June is expected.

California: Season continues with limited production. Expect supplies to be much lower than previous years .

OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady with improving supplies . Demand has been very strong. Continue to plan ahead to get full coverage. Some damage to the tops is expected from recent high temperatures.

Potato production has been slow to start but should start to ramp up on Gold and Red with Russets expected to improve by the end of the month

Onion demand remains strong and production is starting to improve with the new crop in the desert.

OG Grapes
Mexico: Supplies of Green and red grapes continue from Mexico with mostly Smaller sizing profile and reduced pricing.

California: Season is expected to have a bumper crop as it ramps up in coming week.

Newsletter 5/22/19

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Lettuce
Cool, Drizzly weather along Coastal California this week has had little affect on demand . Prices continue to be depressed with demand to match. Quality continues to be mostly good but anticipate issues to surface with mildew pressure increasing daily.
Mix Leaf
Production continues steady from Central Coast of California. Demand remains steady for better quality especially Romaine Hearts. Quality remains varied with cool damp weather increasing mildew pressure , fringe burn and seeders are also common issues.  Green leaf and Red leaf prices have been steady with varied quality available.
Brussels Sprouts
Production from Mexico is prematurely finishing and domestic production will be limited through May. The market has been strong with heavy demand and now severely reduced supplies. Quality has been marginal as well adding to the shortage of product.
Strawberries
Quality concerns will be the main focus as we approach the Memorial weekend holiday.  Mother nature has temporarily dealt a serious blow to growers in all three growing regions of Salinas, Watsonville and Santa Maria. Multiple rain events usually reserved for the winter season have pelted fields in both Northern and Southern Central California with up to 1-3/4″ of rain over the past few days putting a damper on Memorial day strawberry supplies. Rain of this nature at this time of year spells big trouble for strawberries due to the fact that the spring varieties being used are not suited to this type of weather. Being engineered for early spring, these plants are more easily damaged by uncommonly harsh weather such as we are experiencing now. The markets are firm and will remain so through the next week. Shippers will be packing simultaneously for juice, cannery and severely reduced numbers of fresh market until the plants recover mid next week.
Blackberries
Blackberries remain steady as supplies from Mexico remain the same. West Coast blackberries are now producing small amounts helping to augment these numbers. Quality has been good. Look for markets to remain steady with lower undertones.
Raspberries
Steady supplies out of both Mexico and Central California. New crop West Coast product is still slow in coming along due to the cooler wet weather we are experiencing. Quality has been good out of both areas and the market remains stable. Look for this trend to continue through this week and on into the next.
Blueberries
Blueberries are in good supplies coming primarily out of Mexico, but that trend will change as we expect an increase production from Central California. The recent rains have caused some slight delays, but most shippers are reporting better numbers coming online this weekend. Quality has been good.
Celery
Supplies continue to be light in Oxnard. Recent rains have hindered and improvement in volume, resulting in even stronger markets this week. We expect supplies to improve post memorial day. Salinas and Santa Maria a growing areas are expected to start during the first week of June which will help alleviate supply gaps and ease markets.
Squash
Plenty of product available and shippers are looking to move product out of Nogales. Georgia is producing good numbers currently on yellow and green with good quality overall. East coast summer growing season will begin to gain momentum as early as next week. Plenty of promotable volume available, so run offers by us.
Cauliflower
The bottom has seem to have fallen out of the cauliflower market. Product is trading nearly $20.00 less than it was a week ago. It seems as though it may have hit a price level where prices may stabilize. Cooler temperatures are keeping production in check and demand for the end of the week seems to be slightly better compared to beginning of the week.
Broccoli
Prices have declined slightly over the last few days. They now look like they will remain at current trading levels for the remainder of the week. Cooler temperatures in the California growing regions have slowed production so demand is keeping up with current supplies. It does not look like we will see any problems with quality due to the rains. Cooler windy temperatures have helped dry product quickly and kept any type of rot issues out of the equation.
Artichokes
Production continues steady with improving demand especially on the Heirloom variety.  Most varieties currently are seeded or Thornless. at reduced prices but still strong demand. Production continues towards larger size profile as the weather improves. Expect medium sizes to increase as we get towards the end of May.
Onions
California…Jumbo Yellow ‘s are in new varieties now with the size increasing to good availability on Colossal. The seeds are Don Victor Gabriella and Madelyn’s. These varieties are totally seeder free and with the bigger sizes, yield will improve. Markets are steady in the $9 to $10 range…
Reds 9 to 11 with decent quality coming out of Mexico crossing in Yuma.
Whites Market is being quoted at $15-18 with some open deal available.
Stone Fruit
As expected record rainfall and near record cold temperatures have limited production of California Stone Fruit. This weather pattern will continue through Memorial Day.  Even with the current weather situation, Apricots, Peaches (both yellow and white), and Nectarines (both yellow and white) are available.  Red and Black Plums will be the next to start and are estimated to be ready to ship on June 3rd. The Markets are holding steady but will slowly creep lower as the weather returns to normal at the end of next week.
Grapes
The start of the Grape deal continues to creep along due to the near record cold temperatures. The harvest is selling out daily. The markets remain volatile and unpredictable.  By mid next week the weather will return to normal and production will increase with markets slowly declining. Keep in mind that we have a heavy set of grapes hanging in Mexico and now a condensed season.  The market will come off.  So be looking to aggressively book ads for the month of June.
Green Onions
Production continues exclusively from Mexico with ample supplies. Reduced Summer plantings will eventually lead to tighter markets but not likely before the end of the month. Overall quality remains varied with heavy insect pressure and mechanical damage.
Citrus
Navel Oranges- Record rainfall fall in the San Joaquin Valley will continue through Memorial Day. This rainfall has been limiting the harvest. Prices are slowly creeping higher. Size peaking on 72’s. Navel orange 113’s and 138’s remain limited with Valencia Oranges available to fill the gap. Quality of the Navels is declining as we get to the end of the season. More choice fruit is being graded and more puff is evident.
Lemons-  The rain and cold weather has brought on the larger sizes.  Supplies on 165’s and smaller remain tight and will continue for the near future. Market prices on the small fruit will continue to climb weekly. Expecting the low $30’s on the small fruit for both choice and fancy fruit. For now, Lemons supplies will continue to peak on the 75/95/115’s. Quality remains strong.
Limes- Extreme heat and a lack of rain in the Mexican growing region is driving the heavy volume of small sizes hitting the markets. Prices for 200’s and smaller will remain at these lower levels next week. Supplies on 175’s and larger will remain limited keeping the prices higher for the large sizes. The growers are saying it will be mid to late June before we see a shift off the current sizing.
Asparagus
Indiana and Michigan are going now and with Washington still shipping 28/1’s in the $58 range…
Cantaloupes
Mostly spotty production for the balance of the week due to the near record cold temperatures. Most shippers have started packing in the Desert areas but the harvest is very limited. Be aware Cantaloupes are currently peaking on 15’s but most growers are expecting a shift in sizes to 9/12’s as the weather warms up. The market should slowly decline next week as volume kicks in mid to late next week.
Honeydews
Mexican honeydews are full stride and supplies are expected to good for the next two weeks. Domestic production from the Desert areas is scheduled to kick in next week peaking 5/6’s. With both areas producing, the market should remain steady through next week. On the quality front, the Desert has experienced a lot of wind recently. As the Desert harvest gets started, we will evaluate the scarring from the winds and will advise if it is an issue.
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Organic Items
OG Broccoli and Cauliflower
Cauliflower   Markets have been pushed higher . Limited production and weather related interruptions in Northern California  continue to impact supplies. We expect better supplies in coming weeks with improved weather.
Broccoli Production on broccoli continues to be light but is expected to improve as the weather warms in coming weeks.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Most Herbs and Bunching Green production remain varied with some quality issues affecting supplies but improved weather should help improve quality. Expect supplies to remain unstable as they grow through quality issues and rain delays.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine demand continues to be strong  Production is likely to be impacted by the cool wet weather in the Coastal growing areas of California. Expect volatility for the duration of the month.
OG Citrus
Lemons:   Steady, Light production with sizing profile continuing to lean towards larger fruit. The market continues to be strong especially the smaller,food service sizes.
Oranges  Navel production is starting to wind down with Valencia’s increasing offerings. As with most citrus larger sizes continue to be prevalent. We expect prices to remain competitive on Larger fruit although smaller sizes will remain limited at elevated pricing.
Limes:  Supplies are still anticipated to improve but have been delayed in most production areas with small sizing profile due to dry conditions in Mexico . Quality continues to just be fair.
Grapefruit:  Production continues steady from the desert and Mexico has begun to slow. Expect the market to firm
Mandarins:  Production  has been steady with good demand . Prices have been steady on  Specialty Citrus including Caras, Bloods and Pixies although supplies are expected to diminish heading into June.
OG Avocados
Mexico: Strong demand with limited supplies are expected to continue through June when the seasonal production surge is expected in late June is expected.
California: Season continues with limited production. Expect supplies to be much lower than previous years.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady with improving supplies . Demand has been very strong. Continue to plan ahead to get full coverage.
Potato production has been slow to start but should start to ramp up on Gold and Red with Russets expected to improve next month.
Onion demand remains strong and production is starting to improve with the new crop in the desert.
OG Grapes
Mexico: Light supplies of Green and especially red grapes have begun but are not expected to improve until mid June. The market has been very active with limited imports available.
California: Season is expected to have a bumper crop once it gets started later this Summer.

Newsletter 5/8/19

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Lettuce
Production continues to run steady with luke warm demand . Cooler, Drizzly weather has allowed shippers to slow their pace without sacrificing quality although we anticipate mildew pressure to pickup by the weekend. Wide range in quality continues to exist with irregular sizing, solidity and color are the most prevalent issues with some insect , mildew, seeder and/or tip burn visible. We still anticipate market volatility before the end of May as most current plantings have been affected by weather during its’ life cycle. Production from Southwest New Mexico is a Great source of Iceberg and Romaine with peak Production and Quality expected to continue through the end of the month. Transportation is also available upon request.
Mix Leaf
Production continues to concentrate from the Central Coast of California. Demand has improved especially Romaine Hearts.  The market has eased slightly for some shippers while others remain firm. Quality remains varied as most have gone through inclement weather since planting. Fringe burn and Seeders are the most common issues and mildew pressure is expected to increase which could push more production towards hearts.  Green leaf and Red leaf prices have been steady with varied quality available. Expect volatility to remain with continued uneven supplies distributed among shippers.
Brussels Sprouts
Production from Mexico has prematurely coming to a close and domestic production will be limited through May. The market has been strong with heavy demand and now severely reduced supplies. Quality has been marginal as well adding to the shortage of product.
Strawberries
The Mothers day pull demand is subsiding and we will see increases in volume as we move towards the weekend. Markets are soft and supplies are plentiful. Quality is good in all regions but reports of a steady occasional shower through Friday may have some effect on the quality on the front end of next week. This is a good time to promote. Look for markets to remain in a downward trend through the weekend.
Blackberries
Mexico is still the main supplier for blackberries. We are seeing slightly more domestic production in the West mildly bolstering supplies. The market will remain firm with higher undertones as the Mexican supplies lighten up a bit next week putting more pressure on the early new crop in CA. Quality is good out of all areas.
Raspberries
Conventional volumes are slightly of this week with fair demand. The bulk of the fruit is still coming out of Mexico. The west coast numbers will increase slowly beginning next week.increasing although they will probably lag behind until we get into June and increased temperatures take effect on the plants. Quality has been good and the market should remain firm through the weekend.
Blueberries
Georgia and Mexico are producing the bulk of the fruit in the market as we see the addition of the West Coast production begin to increase. Markets are steady. The Western new crop is commanding a premium. Quality has been reported as good through all areas. Look for the market to continue to soften as we approach the weekend as movement stalls after the main Mothers Day pull.
Cauliflower
Market momentum has been good for the past two weeks and what limited availability there was would sell out daily. We are now starting to see more shippers with availability so it seems as though prices will begin to decline as we finish out the week. I would stay on the conservative end when purchasing. Quality has been nice. Weather along the central coast of California has been mild keeping product in good condition. Nice white domes, with a full green jacket is the norm.
Broccoli
Supplies have been limited over the last two weeks due to planting gaps caused from the winter rains. It now looks like we will start to get back to normal production and we expect that markets will start to decline by the end of this week. Central Mexico continues to ship some limited volume. Prices have remained steady with most ranging from $11.50 – $12.50. We will have about 2 more weeks of production of our Shui Ling crowns available in Texas.
Artichokes
Production continues steady with improving demand especially on the Heirloom variety.  Most varieties currently are seeded or Thornless. at reduced prices but still strong demand. Production continues towards larger size profile as the weather improves. Expect medium sizes to increase as we get deeper into May. Quality has been excellent especially on the Heirloom variety.
Onions
Northwest is finally finished and the emphasis is on Texas and Mexico crossings both in McAllen and Nogales. Rains in the Texas growing area is starting to take a toll on quality but should clean up in a few days.
California is started in a small way and the shippers are saying they are cleaning up everyday on Jumbo yellow in the 9-11-dollar range.
Reds are going and seem to be holding in the $12 range with a few quotes at $10.
White onions are anywhere from $20.00 to $30 dollars with protection out of Mexico and are finally coming back to earth on pricing.
Celery
Markets have softened slightly and a wider range of pricing exists between shippers. Although demand appears to have lessened, supplies are still light. We still expect nigh markets through the majority of this month, as volumes out of Oxnard will continue to be low. Seeder is still being reported, as well as insect damage and yellowing.
Stone Fruit
California Stone Fruit production is now kicking in. Peaches (Yellow Flesh & White fleshed), Yellow Nectarines, and Apricots are all available in limited way this week.. Markets are high but should slowly decline as production increases. By mid-May volumes, quality, varieties, and sizes will improve. The growers are forecasting an excellent season on all Stone Fruit with good availability and strong ad opportunities.
Grapes
The Mexican harvest has started in a limited way. By Monday, volume from Mexico should ramp up.  Next week prices will be volatile and unpredictable. Better volume from Mexico and Coachella is expected the week of 5/20 on both colors and by then the markets should settle into reasonable prices. Ad volume on grapes should be available beginning the week of 5/27 and through nearly all of June out of both regions. The grower’s estimates for Mexico is for volume to be sharply up as compared to last year so promote heavily in June.
Green Onions
Production continues exclusively from Mexico with ample supplies. Reduced Summer plantings will eventually lead to tighter markets but not likely before the end of the month. Overall quality remains varied with heavy insect pressure and mechanical damage the main issues.
Citrus
Navel Oranges- Markets continue to creep higher as we get closer to the end of the season from California. Supply continues to peak on 72/88’s.  113’s and 138’s are limited and will stay that way for the balance of the season. The amount of choice graded fruit has increased due to puff but overall quality remains good. The Valenica Orange harvest has started and is helping to support the demand for small fruit.
Lemons- A steady go from California is expected for the next 10 days.  Ample supplies on good quality coming out of the San Joaquin Valley (District 1) peaking on 115’s and larger with aggressive promotional pricing available. Small fruit (165’s & smaller) is tight and the market continues to be strong.  A few Mexican lemons are now making there way into Texas.
Limes- Peak sizes continues to be on 200/235/250’s with the supply limited on 110’s – 175’s.  This size structure is forecasted to remain on the small side for the next 4-5 weeks. Look for the two tier market to continue with 110’s through 175’s remaining at the higher levels and for pricing on the 200’s through 250’s to be in the teens.
Asparagus
Market is anywhere from 24.90 on Mexican (new crop) shipping from Brawley ..with a few “seedy” shipment from Mexico crossing in Texas..
California is $28.90 on 11’s and 28/1’s are all but finished in California 28/1’s.
Indiana and Michigan are into some bad weather and are being held up , thus sparking California and Mexico.
Washington is shipping 28/1’s in the mid $50.00 range with the quality in and out depending on shipper.
Squash
Soft markets are expected to continue through next week. Consistent supplies are arriving daily into Nogales, Az from Mexico. Shippers are looking to move Italian and Yellow Straight Neck varieties, especially #2s. Baja growing regions will start the week of the 20th and supplies should overlap.
Cantaloupes
Offshore production continued its gradual wind down toward the end of their deal. At the same time Mexico picked up. California started scratching the surface with one grower going in a very small way. Quality was still good from the Caribbean, variable from Mexico and good from California. Demand was tepid overall. Next week offshore will continue to wane. Mexico supplies should pick up with improves quality as the newer areas on Northern Mexico moves into the shank of their season. CA. should have one or two more producers by the end of the week, albeit in very small way for the first 10s days. Sizes will run predominately to12 count except for off shore. Demand will be continue to be tepid at best with more cherries, soft fruit and grapes coming on line, along with cheap berries providing stiff competition for the fruit consumers’ attention. We look for a continued pattern of fairly  firm prices on offshore product, weakfish and reasonable pricing on Mexican product especially 12 count and smaller. And fairly firm prices on Ca product due to continued very light production.
Honeydews
Like cantaloupes off shore production waned as they approach the end of their season. Mexico increased. California/Arizona has not started. Size on off shore still skewered to jbo 5s and 5s. but with more of a percentage of regular 5s and 6s. Mexico product increased, although mostly on smaller fruit (6s and 8s). Prices were steady and fairly firm on jbo 5s and regular 5s offshore, but weak in Mexico particularly on 6s and smaller where very reasonable deals were being struck by buyers. Next week looks like more of the same with perhaps a smaller percentage of 8s and smaller and bit better percentage of 6s and 5s. Demand will be limited by cheap competition from berries and other fruits coming on board with increasing such as cherries and grapes and soft fruit. We look for an uneventful, steady and dull market most if not all of next week.
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Organic Items
OG Broccoli and Cauliflower
Cauliflower   Markets have been pushed higher . Limited production and weather related interruptions during the growing season in Northern California  continue to impact supplies. We expect better supplies in coming weeks with improved weather
Broccoli    Production on broccoli continues to be light but is expected to improve as the weather warms in coming weeks.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Most Herbs and Bunching Green production remain varied with some quality issues affecting supplies but improved weather should help improve quality. Expect supplies to remain unstable as they grow through quality issues related to late Winter and Spring weather.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine demand continues to be strong  Production is transitioned North which will keep supplies limited as weather has been mild in Northern California . Expect volatility for the duration of the month.
OG Citrus
Lemons:   Steady production and improving quality from the Central Valley and Oxnard District has led to better demand and competitive pricing.  Expect a higher percentage of fancy, larger fruit available with continued lighter supplies and firmer prices of the smaller foodservice fruit.
Oranges  Navel production has been strong as well as sizing profiles. Sizing profile and prices to remain competitive on Larger fruit although smaller sizes will remain limited at elevated pricing.
Limes:  Supplies should start to improve now we are past the heavy Cinco de Mayo demand. We expect supplies to improve and prices expected to settle as well.
Grapefruit:  Production continues steady from the desert and Mexico has begun to slow. Expect the market to firm
Mandarins:  Production  has been steady with good demand . Prices have been steady on  Specialty Citrus including Pummelos, Caras , Bloods and Pixies although supplies are expected to diminish heading into May.
OG Avocados
Mexico: Strong demand with steady supplies are expected to continue through May until the next seasonal production surge is expected from Mexico.
California: Season continues with limited production. Expect supplies to be much lower than previous years.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady with improving supplies . Demand has been very strong. Continue to plan ahead to get full coverage.
Potato production has been slow to start but should start to ramp up on Gold, Red and Russets as the weather improves .
Onion demand remains strong although new crop supplies have begun from the desert region and prices should start to settle.

Newsletter 5/1/19

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Lettuce
Production continues to run mostly heavy with moderate demand. Wide range in quality continues to exist with growers settling into their regular production pattern. Irregular sizing, solidity and color are the most prevalent issues with some insect, growth crack, seeder and/or tipburn visible. We expect supplies to tighten and the market to firm as we enter May with many fields still impacted by Winter weather. Expect volatile markets to continue through May. Production from Southwest New Mexico is a Great source of Iceberg and Romaine as they enter their prime production window with excellent quality.
Mix Leaf
Production continues to concentrate from the Central Coast of California. Demand has been active especially Romaine Hearts. Labor has been an issue to start the season but seems to be settling down allowing for improved production. The market has eased slightly for some shippers while others remain firm. Quality remains varied as most have gone through inclement weather since planting. Fringe burn  and Seeders are the most common issues.  Green leaf and Red leaf prices have firmed with improved demand. Expect volatility to remain with continued uneven supplies distributed among shippers.
Brussels Sprouts
Production from Mexico has begun to prematurely wind down and domestic production will be limited through May. The market has been strong with heavy demand and now severely reduced supplies. Quality has been marginal as well adding to the shortage of product.
Strawberries
The perfect storm of fruit from Oxnard, Santa Maria, Salinas, and Watsonville flooded the market place this week. Too make matters worse we are expecting large volumes of fruit in May and June. Central Mexico has ended their shipments to the US and will fulfill their national market. We should see a short term tightening of supply as we enter the mothers day pull.
Blackberries
Better supplies are expected towards the end of May out of California. Mexico will have steady supplies for the next several weeks. Quality has been good and market pricing should remain consistent.
Raspberries
Conventional Raspberries are tracking slightly lower this week due to lower volumes out of Mexico. California volumes are expected to rise next week and throughout the month of May. Warmer temperature will be needed to see volumes increase.
Blueberries
San Joaquin Production is expected to begin next week and supplies out of Watsonville will be on the rise as well. Supplies out of Georgia will downtrend for the remainder of their short season. North Carolina will begin small numbers next week.
Cauliflower
In the same manner as broccoli we are in a planting gap due to winter rains. Cauliflower was affected more by the rains than broccoli as there is not much available at all and there is heavy demand. Most shippers are telling us that they will not have anything available for the remainder of this week but should start to get some supplies early next week. If you are looking for a pallet or two we should be able to find you something but orders any larger than that are non existent unless under contract. We will keep you posted as more product becomes available.
Broccoli
We are seeing the effect of the winter rains in the Salinas and Santa Maria growing areas as we are currently in a planting gap. It sounds like we will continue in this manner through at least the middle of next week. Demand is fair, much of the business that is taking place is shippers selling to shippers in order to cover contacts. Central Mexico continues to provide some product at the Texas border but it is definitely on the decline and except for a few year around shippers most will be finished within the next 2 weeks. Quality out of California has been good and surprisingly for this time of year the Mexican product is nice as well although it is starting to get a little branchy. We will have limited availability of our Shui Ling crowns for two more weeks.
Artichokes
Production continues steady with improving demand especially on the Heirloom variety.  Most varieties currently are seeded or Thornless. at reduced prices but still strong demand. Production continues towards larger size profile as the weather improves. Expect medium sizes to increase as we get deeper into May. Quality has been excellent especially on the Heirloom variety.
Stone Fruit
This week, California Stone Fruit product is slowly getting starting. By next Monday expect to see increasing volume of peaches (yellow & white) and nectarines (yellow). The growers are also estimating to start Apricots next week. Markets should slowly decline as production increases. By mid-May, production will begin it’s full stride and overall volumes, quality, varieties, and sizes will improve. Chilean plums are still available. Market is steady.
Grapes
The Imported Grape season is winding down. Green Seedless are nearly wrapped up with remaining lots showing high amber and the occasional soft and wet berries. Red Seedless inventories should carry into the new crop making for a smooth transition. Quality remains good with the pricing steady.  The new crop from Mexico and Coachella will get started next week. The growers are forecasting good availability and great quality.   Better volume from Mexico and Coachella is expected the week of 5/20 on both colors.  Ad volume on grapes should be available beginning the week of 5/27 and through nearly all of June out of both regions.
Green Onions
Production continues exclusively from Mexico with ample supplies although we expect to lighten as growers start their reduced Summer plantings. Overall quality remains varied with heavy insect pressure and mechanical damage the main issues seen.
Citrus
Navel Oranges- Markets are slowly moving higher as get into the late variety navels. Supply is peaking on 72/88’s.  113’s and 138’s are limited and will stay that way for the balance of the season. Quality remains good even with the amount of choice graded fruit increasing due to puff.
Lemons- Ample supplies on good quality coming out of the San Joaquin Valley (District 1) peaking on 115’s and larger with aggressive promotional pricing available. Small fruit (165’s & smaller) is tight and markets are continuing to trend upward.
Limes- Supplies on limes are slowly picking up. The crop continues peaking on 200’s and 235’s with the supply limited on 110’s – 175’s.  This size structure is forecasted to continue over the next few weeks.  Markets should slowly decline as production increases.
Asparagus
Production from Mexico has transitioned slightly South for many growers and domestic production remains limited as most shippers are transitioning into the 11 pound cartons. Supplies of the 28 pound cartons  are currently available but will transition to 11 pound cartons next week . The market for Mexican and especially domestic product has firmed as regional production areas around the country are being delayed by weather.
Cantaloupes
The beat goes on for cantaloupes. Demand cooled a bit following the holiday and with the start of fruit and cherries, but the market stayed firm with snug supplies as demand dropped with the Caribbean Basin winding down. Nogales is starting to pickup up production, but there remains legacy resistance to robust demand on Mexican product reaching way back to the first ever foods borne illness scare.  Domestic lopes should be starting next month, but with no volume to speak of until mid May at the earliest. Only one grower I know of will start next week. Sizes continued to run mostly 9s and jbo 9s from Off shore areas, and smaller from Mexico. Caribbean quality remained good, Mexico quality has been variable. Prices have held firm and look to remain so for the next couple of weeks.
Honeydews
Demand slowed after the holiday, but with cantaloupes remaining in somewhat short supply, prices held fairly firm. Caribbean product has begun to wind down with quality there running good and size peaking on 5s and 6s, but with smaller sizes increasing in production. Mexico had variable quality and decent volume with sizes also peaking on 5 and 6s. Next week off shore supplies should continue to diminish. Mexico should increase. Domestic production is still at least a week away. Demand should remain tepid. We look for steady prices with some dealing next week.
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Organic Items
OG Broccoli and Cauliflower
Cauliflower   Markets have been pushed higher A return to warmer weather pattern should start to push supplies although pricing remains elevated due to limited production and weather related interruptions during the growing season in Northern California
Broccoli    Production on broccoli has fully transitioned North with adequate supplies available and steady market.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Most Herbs and Bunching Green production remain varied with some quality issues affecting supplies but improved weather should help improve quality. Expect supplies to remain unstable as they grow through quality issues related to late Winter and Spring weather.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine demand continues to be strong  Production is transitioned North which will keep supplies limited as weather has been mild in Northern California . Expect volatility for the duration of the Spring season.
OG Citrus
Lemons:   Steady production and improving quality from the Central Valley and Oxnard District has led to better demand and competitive pricing.  Expect a higher percentage of fancy, larger fruit available with lighter supplies and firmer prices of the smaller fruit .
Oranges  Navel production has been strong as well as sizing profiles. Rain has sporadically interrupted harvest but overall supplies are strong. The rain has helped improve sizing profile and prices to remain competitive although smaller sizes will remain limited.
Limes:  Supplies remain limited and pricing continues to be strong  from Mexico with heavy Cinco de Mayo demand . We expect supplies to improve next week with prices expected to settle as well.  .
Grapefruit:  Production continues steady from the desert and Mexico has begun to slow. Expect the market to firm
Mandarins:  Production  has been steady with good demand . Prices have been steady on  Specialty Citrus including Pummelos , Caras , Bloods and Pixies although supplies are expected to diminish heading into May.
OG Avocados
Mexico: Strong demand with varied supplies and with the approaching Holidays and continued issues at the border added volatility is expected.
California: Season has begun with limited production. Expect supplies to be much lower than previous years.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady with improving supplies . Demand has been very strong. Continue to plan ahead to get full coverage.
Potato production has been slow to start but should start to ramp up on Gold, Red and Russets as the weather improves .
Onion demand remains strong although new crop supplies have begun from the desert region and prices should start to settle.

Newsletter 4/24/19

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Lettuce
With Transition nearly complete we now enter the period of production that was heavily influenced by late Winter weather. Currently strong supply of lettuce with moderate demand but expect supplies to tighten and the market to firm heading into May. Quality remains variable with irregular sizing, solidity and color prevalent with some insect , growth crack and/or tipburn visible in many lots. Expect volatile markets to continue through May as many fields are pushed behind or pulled ahead from weather interruptions and varied growing conditions. Production from Southwest New Mexico is expected to begin next week although Hail storms are forecast in the area which could have a significant impact.
Mix Leaf
Production has begun to concentrate from the Central Coast of California. Demand has been active especially Romaine Hearts. Labor has been an issue to start the season but seems to be settling down allowing for improved production. The market has eased for some shippers while others remain firm. Quality remains varied as most have gone through inclement weather since planting.  Green leaf and Red leaf prices have firmed with improved demand. Expect volatility to remain with continued uneven supplies distributed among shippers.
Brussels Sprouts
Production from Mexico has begun to prematurely wind down and domestic production will be limited through May. The market has been strong with heavy demand and now severely reduced supplies. Quality has been marginal as well adding to the shortage of product.
Strawberries
Oxnard volumes are steady and Santa Maria, Salinas and Watsonville volumes are on the rise. This trend will continue into next week as warmer temperatures are expected. Overall, weather permitting, the forecast May and June is for higher than average numbers when compared to historical numbers.
Blackberries
Steady to slightly lighter supplies will give way to peak volumes in 2 weeks. Promotable pricing will be available. The short term forecast is for favorable weather out of Mexico.
Raspberries
Conventional volume out of California will increase over the next 2 weeks and you will see a moderate increase in Organic Raspberries during this time period. Mexico volumes will remain flat.
Blueberries
Oxnard production will continue to be strong for the next few weeks. Santa maria will have steady supplies available for the next few weeks. Florida and Georgia and beginning to ramp up the production for their short term deals.
Cauliflower
Supplies are much lighter this week as a result of wet weather in February and March. Expect tight supplies through next week. Quality is good overall although there has been some bruising and yellow color reported.
Broccoli
Supplies have tightened up as a result of wet weather over the past 3 months in Salinas and Santa Maria. We expect light supplies through next week. Quality is good overall with the exception of some purple and yellow cast, as well as some mechanical damage.
Artichokes
Production continues steady with improving demand especially on the Heirloom variety.  Most varieties currently are seeded or Thornless. at reduced prices but still strong demand. Production continues towards larger size profile as the weather improves. Expect medium sizes to increase by the end of the month. Quality has been excellent especially on the Heirloom variety.
Stone Fruit
The Import season is nearly done. Plums are still available on limited supplies with the sizing continuing on the large sizes (mostly 2 layer 40’s and 50’s). The California Stone Fruit season has started this week in a limited way.  White and yellow peaches will be first to harvest followed by apricots and then yellow nectarines a few days later. Look for size and eating quality to improve as we get into the month of May.
Grapes
 Chilean imported grapes are continuing to wind down. On Green Seedless, a limited amount is still available at these elevated prices. Good supplies of Red Seedless available. The Red Seedless market is mostly steady to slightly higher. Mexico is estimated to start crossing a few Green Seedless the week of May 6 with Red Seedless to start the week of May 13. Early reports say Coachella will start grapes the week of May 13 with volume the week of May 20.
Green Onions
Production continues exclusively from Mexico where production was interrupted by Holy week observation. Supplies should resume heavy for a couple weeks before falling off for Summer production. Overall quality has improved but issues remain with heavy insect pressure causing scarring.
Citrus
Navel Oranges- Good supplies are being harvested with the market holding mostly steady. Peak sizes are mostly 88’s followed by 72’s. There are good numbers of 48’s and 56’s available at promotable ad prices. On the quality side, the percentage of choice fruit is increasing due to an increase in puff and scarring.
Lemons- No real change here.  Good supplies on good quality coming out of the San Joaquin Valley (District 1). Peaking on 115’s and larger. Demand remains weak making for good ad opportunities on 115’s and larger.   On the smaller sizes, the market on 165’s and smaller will continue to hold or trend higher.
Limes- The Lime crop is currently peaking on size 230s and 250s. Large sizes are very limited. Supplies are slowly pickup and the market prices continue to come off daily.  The chatter is that the roller coaster lime market will continue going into May as the growers are expecting a strong market through the Cinco de Mayo pull.
Squash
Steady markets this week on most varieties. Quality is consistently nice coming from Mexico. Large sizing is less prevalent than smaller sizes this week. Most product is coming into Nogales AZ and steady markets should continue through next week.
Celery
This market continues to be extremely active and high pricing remains the norm this week. We expect this trend to continue into at least the first week of may . Demand continues to exceed supplies, keeping pricing well over the $70 range on average. Quality is marginal at best, with plenty of seeder, limp stalks and insect damage. At this point, shippers are packing anything they can get their hands on, capitalizing on record breaking markets. High pricing is expect continue through May until Salinas starts production.
Onions
California is now started in a light way and shippers are starting to buy their way into the market…they started the week at $12.00 and are now at the 9-10 dollar range. Texas is doing decent number and are in the $14 range with reds being 12*14 on 25#’ers.
Northwest is still shipping but most of the brokers are starting to go south for good product.
Asparagus
Market is anywhere from $12.75 on Obergon Mexican (new crop) to consigned on old crop.
California is $22.90 on 11’s and $48-50 on 28/1’s.
Indiana and Michigan are due to start in the next week, so the Western Market will only get more competition.
Cantaloupes
The market rose again this week. Offshore supplies continued to dwindle as older areas ended and there are no new areas on tap with the deal coming to its seasonal end. Quality was good and sizes continued to peak on 9s and jbo 9s. Nogales started in a very small way with fair quality and expensive prices. Demand continued to be good with good weather across most of the country and inventories being light following the Easter/Passover holiday. Next week we should have higher prices again. Offshore supplies will dwindle further and start their endgame. Nogales will begin to pick up volume but only a bit and not enough to make up for diminishing Caribbean production. Domestic fruit should be starting around 5/6. The domestic desert deal is quite light this year so we shouldn’t see any volume until at least mid May. We look for a rising and active market though at least next week.
Honeydews
Like cantaloupes the market rose on dews this week, albeit in less dramatic fashion. Good quality and decent supplies continue from Caribbean and Mexico through Nogales. Sizes peaked on 5s & 6s in both area with some oversized packs from Offshore. Demand improved due to warmer weather and holidays, but also because dews became a better value compared to lopes as latter’s price rose. Next week, offshore supplies should continue to dwindle. Mexico supplies should be steady. We are still a couple weeks away from domestic harvest, and like lopes plantings in the desert is light. We look for a higher market over the next two weeks on honeydews.
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Organic Items
OG Broccoli and Cauliflower
Cauliflower   Markets have been pushed higher A return to warmer weather pattern should start to push supplies although pricing remains elevated due to limited production and weather related interruptions during the growing season in Northern California
Broccoli Production on broccoli has fully transitioned North with adequate supplies are available and steady market.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Most Herbs and Bunching Green production remain varied with some quality issues affecting supplies but improved weather should help improve quality. Expect supplies to remain unstable as they grow through quality issues related to late Winter and Spring weather.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine demand continues to be strong  Production is transitioned North which will keep supplies limited as weather has been mild in Northern California . Expect volatility for the duration of the Spring season.
OG Citrus
Lemons:   Steady production and improving quality from the Central Valley District has led to better demand and competitive pricing.  Expect a higher percentage of fancy, larger fruit available with lighter supplies and firmer prices of the smaller fruit .
Oranges  Navel production has been strong as well as sizing profiles. Rain has sporadically interrupted harvest but overall supplies are strong. The rain has helped improve sizing profile and prices to remain competitive although smaller sizes will remain limited.
Limes:  Supplies remain limited and pricing continues to be strong  from Mexico. Issues at the Border have impacted supplies and prices as well as Cinco de Mayo promotions .
Grapefruit:  Production continues steady from the desert and Mexico has begun to slow. Expect the market to firm
Mandarins:  Production  has been steady with good demand . Prices have been steady on  Specialty Citrus including Pummelos , Caras , Bloods and Pixies although supplies are expected to diminish heading into May .
OG Avocados
Mexico: Strong demand with varied supplies and with the approaching Holidays and continued issues at the border added volatility is expected.
California: Season has begun with limited production. Expect supplies to be much lower than previous years.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady with improving supplies. Demand has been very strong. Continue to plan ahead to get full coverage.
Potato production has been slow to start but should start to ramp up on Gold, Red and Russets as the weather improves.
Onion demand remains strong although new crop supplies have begun from the desert region and prices should start to settle.
OG Asparagus
Mexico: Production from Mexico has been extended further than anticipated leading to adequate availability but expect lighter supplies moving forward.
California: Limited supplies have started with elevated pricing keeping demand limited but expect demand to improve as quality and supplies diminish from Mexico.

Newsletter 4/17/19

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Conventional Items

Lettuce
Transition continues with the Desert in the rear view mirror and production areas concentrating in the Interior Central Valley and Coastal California. Demand continues to be moderate as prices remain elevated. Quality remains varied in all production areas with irregular sizing, solidity and color prevalent otherwise no major quality defects. Some shippers are offering incentives to load one district or another but best quality pricing remains firm. Expect volatile ( both directions) markets during the Spring transition as many fields are pushed behind or pulled ahead from weather interruptions and varied cultural practices.

Mix Leaf
Romaine production is transitioning from the desert to Central Coastal California. The market has been active with good demand especially Romaine Hearts where shippers are still establishing crews and machinery which along with mostly cool Spring weather is limiting production. Quality remains varied in the newer production areas as most have gone through stressful Winter weather.  Green leaf and Red leaf prices have rebounded along with Romaine as overlapping production areas diminish . Expect volatility to remain with continued uneven supplies distributed among shippers.

Brussels Sprouts
Production mainly from Mexico continues steady The market is strong with growing demand for Easter. Expect  demand to continue to build through Easter Holiday season and likely beyond.

Strawberries
The Easter pull has ended and demand has subsided. Growers are now shipping from multiple locations including Oxnard, Santa Maria, Salinas and Watsonville. Limited labor resources will be the norm the rest of the week. Long waits and difficulties getting loaded at the coolers are to be expected. Look for the market to ease off as we move closer to Easter weekend and the inevitable lull in buying occurs just prior to it. The quality is good out of all districts with an occasional overripe and bruising being reported out of Oxnard. Good promotable numbers should be available for the next three weeks and beyond.

Blackberries
Mexico continues to be the main production area. Quality has been good and the market remains firm. The blackberries have also been subject to the same logistical issues that exist for all mixed berries at this point. Look for the market to remain steady through the end of the week with lower undertones as we approach the final days of Easter.

Raspberries
Raspberries are still active as we wait for production to start locally on the West Coast. All production is currently coming out of Mexico and transportation has been an issue not only in Mexico internally but with transfers after crossing into the States as well. The fact that many workers are currently celebrating Holy Week leading up to Easter is not helping the situation as we typically see a significant reduction in labor availability both in the fields and at the borders through the week in Mexico. Quality has been good with the occasional older fruit showing some issues upon arrival. Look for markets to remain firm through the end of the week.

Blueberries
Blueberry supplies are beginning to increase with good quality fruit coming from Central Mexico, Florida, and Georgia at the same. The market is easing off and trending lower as we see these areas compete for market share. The quality has been good and there are promotional opportunities in the next few weeks leading up to Mothers Day.

Cauliflower
Harvest volume has lightened as we head into plantings that were disrupted due to winter rains. Prices and demand have increased over the last couple of days. 9 and 12 size seem to be somewhat limited, there is good availability and cheaper deals to be had on 16’s.  Quality is good, mostly white color with the occasional soft shoulder.

Broccoli
 Good availability out of Santa Maria and Salinas. Mendota, CA shippers will finish up for the season early next week. There has not been much in the way of price fluctuations over the last two weeks and that does not look to change anytime soon . Expect markets to remain at current levels through next week. Quality out of these growing areas has improved but you will still find some purple domes and spreading of the domes. Central Mexico continues to limp along as they wind down their season. The quality out of there has been fair, purple domes, heavy bracketing and uneven domes are the norm.

Artichokes
Production continues steady with improving demand especially on the Heirloom variety.  Most varieties currently are seeded or Thornless. at reduced prices but still strong demand. Production continues towards larger size profile as the weather improves. Expect medium sizes to increase by the end of the month. Quality has been excellent especially on the Heirloom variety.

Stone Fruit
On the Import season, nectarines and peaches are done while plums are still available on limited supplies with the sizing continuing on the large sizes. California’s earliest stonefruit fields are now forecasted to start harvesting between April 25 and 29.  White and yellow peaches will be first to harvest followed by apricots and then yellow nectarines a few days later.  Going into May, we should see better volume and quality as well as more varieties and size options. Domestic plums are expected to start in late May.

Grapes
Chilean imported grapes continue to tighten up as we come to the end of the season. Market prices continue to creep higher. On the quality side, red seedless continue to be good with green seedless exhibiting soft, wet berries with early signs of decay.  We expect Mexico and Coachella to start by mid-May with shipping promotable volumes later. Most Mexican growers say that we won’t see any meaningful, promotable volume until the third week of May.

Green Onions
Mexico is in full production and the market has bottomed out. Most shippers have significant inventories and looking to move while some have been packing to order and keeping product fresh. Overall quality has improved but be wary of aging related issues. We anticipate market to start to firm based on supplies and Labor shutdown during Holy week. Expect supplies to surge back by the end of the month.

Citrus
Navel Oranges- Steady as we go going into next week on supplies and pricing.  Peaking on 72/88’s with ample supplies available on all sizes other than 138’s.  Lots of promotional opportunities through the rest of April. Navels are brixing 13.5 and higher.  The amount of choice vs fancy is picking up. As mentioned previously, many lots are exhibiting and increase in puff and scarring.  As the weather warms up, look to transition to the summer varieties to avoid issues with puffy navels.

Lemons- No changes expected in the coming week.  Good supplies on good quality coming out of the San Joaquin Valley (District 1). Peaking on 115’s and larger. There has been and will continue to be aggressive deals on the large sizes making for a good time to go on ad. On the smaller sizes, the market will continue to be holding at these higher for the next week on 165’s and smaller. The market on on 165’s and smaller will continue to trend higher.

Limes- With a limited harvest due to the Easter Holiday and border delays, limes will be tight for the near term.  The crop is currently peaking on size 230s and 250s. Please book ahead 3 days or more to insure getting covered. Looking further out, the growers are expecting a strong market through the Cinco de Mayo pull.

Squash
Good supplies crossing into Nogales, Az. Markets are strengthening slightly, but supplies are expected to remain consistent through the remainder of this month. Quality is nice on most varieties.

Celery
This red hot market is showing no signs of slowing down. Pricing is even stronger than last week. A demand exceeds supply scenario remains through the week and next. With desert production finishing there is even more pressure on central coast production. Quality is only minimal, and defects include pith, bowing and high seeder. We expect strong markets through this month and into May.

Onions
I JUST DID A SMALL SURVEY ON WHAT’S LEFT IN THE NORTHWEST.

According to my sources the really good shippers will start to wind down toward the end of the week of the April 29th. With the springtime temperatures becoming prevalent in most of the country, Onions will start to sprout in transit and on arrival. We will see greening on the interior of the onions as a sprout heads to the top. With the NW fading and the Texas deal struggling to keep up with demand, we might see a decent market for the California fresh deal to finally be in double digits to start.

The Cal deal will start at the end of next week and building to volume the week of the 29th. According to most shippers I’ve talked to there will be less Onions than last year and volume depleted more by seeders from the cold weather this winter. Th e over all volume will be down 20-30%…but that remains to be seen. New Mexico will be right on the heels of Cal so it should be interesting.

Sweet Onions from Georgia are shipping and are in the low 20’s with the Texas sweet in good demand. Vidalia’s will be starting in the next week or so and Texas will be in the rearview mirror.

Asparagus
Markets are waxing and waning at this point…there are very low-price deals from certain shippers that, apparently didn’t take enough ad business. The promotion prices are hovering around the $30-$34 .

The above is what I wrote two weeks ago. What a blood bath this has been. The Mexican gush of product, has overshadowed the California product, but that’s about to change. That smell that exists in most warehouse cooler now is the receivers stuck with asparagus. No doubt there will be some dump certificates issued. California will be in charge for a couple of weeks until the Washington deal takes off…then there’s Indiana, Michigan and New Jersey that will take center stage for about 5 weeks.Espect California pricing to be in the $50.00’s for 28/1’s and low $20’s on 11/1’s. Oregon will be about $5.00 cheaper on 11/1’s.

Cantaloupes
As expected the last two weeks cantaloupes have risen in price. That looks to continue again next week. Demand picked up the last couple of weeks due to the holiday and seasonal warm up across the country. The Holidays will be ending, but the weather will continue its march through spring. At the same time supplies from the Caribbean Basin are diminishing as areas move into their last fields. Quality has been good, sizes are still peaking on jbo 9 and 9s then 12s. 15s are few and far between. Mexico should start in a small way toward the end of next week and quality there is also looking good. Domestics will start in a very small way the first 10 days of May. However plantings are light in the domestic desert regions. Growers are planting less due to white fly threats for other crops and after going through a few years of anemic markets. We look for a strong and active market most of next week with possible faltering the week after next depending on newer areas volume when they kick in.

Honeydews
It was another unchanged week for honeydews. Offshore supplies were ample, if variable in quality with #2 fruit selling an hefty discounts. Sizes peaked on 5 and 6s count with some jbo 5s and virtually nothing smaller off shore. Mexican supplies were also ample with good quality and peaking on 5 and 6s as well. Demand was steady and lackluster as most melon buying was focused on cantaloupes. Next week Offshore supplies should be ample again at least until the following week. Mexico should prick up supplies as they get further into spring production. Domestic is about three weeks off. We look for a steady market on honeydews next week.

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Organic Items

OG Broccoli and Cauliflower
Cauliflower   Markets have been pushed higher A return to warmer weather pattern should start to push supplies although pricing remains elevated due to limited production and weather related interruptions during the growing season in Northern California.

Broccoli  Production on broccoli has fully transitioned North with adequate supplies are available and steady market.

OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Most Herbs and Bunching Green production remain varied with some quality issues affecting supplies but improved weather should help improve quality. Expect supplies to remain unstable as they grow through quality issues related to late Winter and Spring weather.

OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine demand continues to be strong  Production is transitioning North which will keep supplies limited as weather has been mild in Northern California. Expect volatility for the duration of the Spring season.

OG Citrus
 Lemons:   Steady production and improving quality from the Central Valley District has led to better demand and mostly stable pricing.  Expect a higher percentage of fancy, larger fruit available with lighter supplies and firmer prices of the smaller fruit .

Oranges  Navel production has been strong as well as sizing profiles. Rain has sporadically interrupted harvest but overall supplies are strong. The rain has helped improve sizing profile and prices to remain competitive although smaller sizes will remain limited.

Limes:  Supplies remain limited and pricing continues to be strong  from Mexico. Issues at the Border along with Holy Week closures will further impact supplies and prices .

Grapefruit:  Production continues steady from the desert and Mexico has begun to slow. Expect the market to firm

Mandarins:  Production  has been strong as well as demand . Prices have been steady  Specialty Citrus including Pummelos , Caras , Bloods and Pixies continue to be available with weather expected to vary throughout California production areas

OG Avocados 
Mexico: Strong demand with lighter than expected supplies has pushed prices higher and with the approaching Holidays and the threat of a border closure has added to the volatility.

California: Season has begun with limited production. Expect supplies to be much lower than previous years .

OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady with improving supplies . Demand has been very strong. Continue to plan ahead to get full coverage.

Potato production has been slow to start but should start to ramp up on Gold, Red and Russets as the weather improves.

Onion demand exceeds as supplies remain tight as the Spring crop has been delayed by the cool, wet weather in the West but should improve in coming weeks.

OG Asparagus
Mexico: Production from Mexico has been extended further than anticipated leading to additional supplies for the Easter Holiday and keeping prices competitive.

California: Limited supplies have started with elevated pricing keeping demand limited but expect demand to improve as quality and supplies diminish from Mexico.

Newsletter 3/27/19

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Lettuce
Demand continues to be moderate as supplies have started to increase in the desert as well as transitional areas in Central Valley California. With the additional supplies comes buying opportunities as shippers offer deals to entice shipments from production areas with lighter traffic (Currently Huron CA). Quality has shown improvement but varied in both production areas with issues ranging from Epidermal peel , Sizing , Rib blight. and solidity. Although we expect prices to ease through early next week , expect markets to remain volatile during the Spring transition as many fields recover from weather interruptions and delayed cultural practices.
Mix Leaf
As the weather begins to consistently warm in the desert quality has shown improvement along with increased production . Although significantly reduced , Epidermal peel is still present with most being trimmed in the field. The market has begun to ease although expect a tiered market based on quality. Romaine  Hearts continue to offer good value as shippers have been pushing Romaine towards hearts to reduce the risk of quality issues.  Green leaf and Red leaf prices have leveled off but could rebound along with Romaine as we approach transitional production areas where weather interruptions have impacted plantings. Expect volatility to remain with continued uneven supplies distributed among shippers.
Brussels Sprouts
Production mainly from Mexico continues steady with improving quality leading to improved demand. The market has been stable with occasional deals available but demand will continue to build through Easter Holiday season.
Strawberries
The Berry market continues to be strong with California now being the primary source for shipping. Florida and Mexico are all but finished which is adding extra pressure on the California shippers to perform. We are experiencing spring showers but the major rain events seem to have subsided. Temperatures are warming and we expect the volume to steadily increase over the next few weeks. Look for a firm market through the end of the week with heavy demand. Next week should be similar but better supplies are anticipated which should ease market pressure downward.
Blackberries
Blackberries continue to be tight with due to limited crossings. We expect a gradual increase in supplies over the next 2 weeks out of Mexico. Quality has been fair with some shippers running into problems with red cell.
Raspberries
Raspberries have been in consistent supply. There have been some shortages being reported due to weather and transportation difficulties. Prices took a modest upturn this week with quality being reported as good. We should see light but adequate supplies through the end of the week. All production is coming out of Mexico at this time.
Blueberries
The blueberry market is active with Mexico in a slight gap. Export numbers are down due to Peruvian numbers on the decline. Central California and Florida have begun to produce in a light way, but should steadily increase over the next few weeks.
Cauliflower
The market is declining and looks like it has room to fall some more. Load with market protection over the next few days. Quality is still better out of the Desert compared with Santa Maria or Salinas. Better quality in the latter locations should start to appear by the middle of next week.
Broccoli
Market remains unchanged out of California. Prices on crowns are steady and look like they will finish the week out this way. Bunch broccoli seems to be a little more available and we could see a slight decrease over the next few days. Although production from Mexico is starting to wind down and there will be lighter availability over the next few weeks prices are weakening. The Fob’s have come down a $1.00 or $2.00 over the last few days.
Artichokes
Production continues steady with improving demand especially on the Heirloom variety.  Most varieties currently are seeded or Thornless. at reduced prices. Production has shifted towards larger size profile as the weather improves in the desert and the Coast. Quality has shown improvement with Frost and Freeze damage being limited . Discounts are still being offered on frosted chokes but expect better quality and prices to increase as we approach the Easter Holiday.
Stone Fruit
Chilean Stonefruit supplies are winding down and will slowly head to a mid to late April finish.  Plums and Pluots are available in promotable volume. The quality remains solid on the imports. The new crop from California is forecasted to start in early May.
Grapes
Red Seedless (Crimson Seedless) market is generally holding steady with a few lots being offered at lower prices. Heavy arrivals on Crimsons are expected to continue for at least two more weeks prior to the marketing order.  This is a good time to lock in some ads.  On green seedless (mostly Thompsons), we will see lighter supplies as the import season winds down. We are forecasting a gap in late April before the new crop starts from Mexico. Please contact us now to lock up supplies to cover your needs.
Green Onions
Mexico is in full production and the market is bottoming out. Most shippers have significant inventories and looking to move while some have been packing to order and keeping product fresh. Overall quality has improved but be wary of aging related issues. We anticipate market to remain weak through next week before firming heading into April.
Citrus
Oranges- Good supplies on California Navels expected for the coming week. Peak sizes continue to be 72/88/113’s. Peak of the season aggressive pricing available on Choice Navels making for a good time to promote. Pricing should remain steady for the coming week as should good quality. Navels are brixing 12-14.
Lemons-There are good supplies on good quality coming out of the San Joaquin Valley (District 1). Peaking on 115’s and larger. There has been and will continue to be aggressive deals on the large sizes making for a good time to promote. On the smaller sizes, the market continues to be trending higher on 165’s and smaller. This will remain so until District 2 get harvesting with volume in 2-3 weeks.
Limes- Pricing is beginning to move lower as a result of increase supplies coming from the fields. Supplies have picked up on 110’s and 150’s and as the new crop is harvested more 230’s and 250’s have come available.  The weather forecast for Veracruz calls for mostly dry, warm conditions to prevail which will continue to help ease the market off of these high prices.
Squash
Steady supplies continue and shipper are looking to move yellow and Italian squash. Quality is very nice with very few problems to report. Florida has start production, further softening markets. Georgia is 3-4 weeks away from production. Shippers are looking to promote volume for the month of April, so run offers by us.
Celery
This market continues to be on fire. pricing remains at historically high levels with little relief in sight. The desert season is approaching the end, and transition gaps will be in effect.  Oxnard will be the next growing area and supplies will be light starting off. This will provide little relief to current high markets. Expect high pricing through at least the first 2 weeks of April. Quality issues include pith and frost damage.
Onion (Dry)
Business isn’t that good, still, the Onion markets seems to have come to it’s senses a bit. There are still 3-4 million 50# bag equivalents left in Washington with about an equal amount left in Idaho/Oregon. Texas numbers are off from last year and Mexico is still limited in it’s supplies. Reds are in the 11-12 dollar range and have come down a bit since the last report.
Sweet Onions from Peru are winding up and are now Grano variety. There are just a few loads left with the end being very near. Mexican sweets are not too wonderful and there have been reports of rejections around the country. Texas 1015’s are shipping now and seem to be in good supply. Georgia Sweets are starting and Vidalias will not be far behind. Reports from Brawley indicate that acreage is down, but sometimes growers have a tendency to fudge on their information.
Asparagus
Markets are waxing and waning at this point…there are very low-price deals from certain shippers that, apparently didn’t take enough ad business. The promotion prices are hovering around the $30-$34 range with some deals being made in the low $20’s
With the Culican deal starting to wind down and Oberon not quite started we are going to see much higher prices on Asparagus for the end of the month and the Easter pull…Prices are starting to surface in the low $50’s on California grass and high $40’s for Mexican.
Cantaloupes
More of the same ahead for cantaloupes, which means a comfortably active market. Supplies are steady with increasing production in Honduras offsetting declining volumes from Guatemala and Costa Rica. Quality has been consistently good with some fair quality from Guatemala. Sizes should continue to peak on 9s then jbo 9s with 12s and smaller sizes rather slim.  Demand has picked up in response to Daylight Savings time, spring’s arrival and some warmer weather. Retail promotions continue to be robust and heading into Easter this looks to continue for two to three weeks. We look for a firm to slightly higher market next week.
Honeydews
Different story for honeydews. Production from all areas is abundant and quality is okay. Sizes continue to peak on 5s and 6s. Mexico’s production is ample and increasing with their improving weather. Quality is generally good in Mexico but there is some fair quality as well. Demand is just fair. Retailer promotions seem to be more cantaloupe focused. We look for a barely steady to weaker market next week with discounts being offered to keep product moving.
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Organic Items
OG Broccoli and Cauliflower
Cauliflower   Markets have been pushed higher A return to warmer weather pattern should start to push supplies although pricing remains elevated due to limited acres left in the desert and expected production interruptions from Northern California.
Broccoli    Production on broccoli is also transitioning North where weather related issues will remain through the Spring keeping prices elevated.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Most Herbs and Bunching Green production has surged with the improved weather. Most items will remain in the desert through next week but will likely start transitioning North in the coming week.  Expect volatility of supplies, Quality and pricing throughout the Spring .
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg demand continues to be strong as well as  Romaine supplies have been very limited. Improved weather has helped improve supplies but expect volatility for the duration of the Transitional season.
OG Citrus
Lemons:   Steady production and improving quality from the Central Valley District has led to better demand and mostly stable pricing.  Rain has temporarily delayed harvest but hasn’t impacted supplies other than improving size profile. Expect a higher percentage of fancy, larger fruit available with lighter supplies of the smaller fruit .
Oranges  Navel production has been strong as well as sizing profiles. Rain temporarily slowed harvest but most growers picked ahead in anticipation. with overall supplies expected to be plentiful. The rain will help improve sizing profile and prices to remain competitive although smaller sizes will remain limited.
Limes:  Production has slowed and the market has firmed . Quality remains variable with varied sizing profile .
Grapefruit:  Production continues steady from the desert and Mexico has begun to slow. Expect the market to firm
Mandarins:  Production  has been strong as well as demand . Prices have been steady  Specialty Citrus including Pummelos, Caras, Bloods and Pixies continue to be available with weather expected to vary throughout California production areas
OG Avocados
Mexico: Strong demand with steady supplies should continue barring any manipulation from growers.
California: Season has begun with limited production. Expect supplies to be much lower than previous years.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady with improving supplies . Demand has been very strong. Continue to plan ahead to get full coverage.
Potato production has finished for the season and remaining supplies will move into storage on Gold, Red and Russets.
Onion demand exceeds as storage supplies are winding down. Expect supplies to remain tight as the Spring crop has been delayed by the cool, wet weather in the West.
OG Asparagus
Mexico Production from Mexico has been heavy with temperatures returning to above normal. Expect supplies and quality to diminish rapidly heading into April.
California Season has been delayed by inclement weather with  supplies expected to be much lower than previous years.

Newsletter 3/13/19

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Lettuce
The warming trend forecast for the desert has been interrupted by a few days of cool , windy and rainy weather temporarily impacting production. Forecast for above normal temperatures should materialize this week into next before temperatures moderate again by the end of next week. Overall demand has been light to moderate and the market has slowly adjusted downward. Further easing is expected as soon as improved production resumes  Quality remains varied with issues ranging from Epidermal peel, mildew, Rib blight. and solidity. Expect markets to remain volatile through the remainder of the Winter season and even more so during the Spring transition as many fields recover from weather interruptions and delayed cultural practices.
Mix Leaf
Romaine market has been mostly steady with moderate demand. Warmer weather in the desert has slowly improved quality although significant Epidermal blister and mildew remain and yesterday’s isolated rain showers could worsen the effects..Temperatures are expected to warm once again and expedite an improvement in quality as the outer leaves will be able to be trimmed in the fields.  Shippers continue to quote all product with Epidermal peel and related discoloration. Many shippers continue to push romaine supplies towards Romaine Heart production to reduce quality issues which has kept pricing moderated on Hearts. Keep orders light and inventories low Green leaf and Red leaf prices have leveled off and are expected to ease along with Romaine with continued uneven supplies distributed among shippers. Quality is variable but showing fewer issues than Romaine.
Brussels Sprouts
Production mainly from Mexico continues steady with improving quality leading to improved demand. The market has been stable with occasional deals available but demand will continue to build through Easter Holiday season.
Strawberries
Finally, some favorable weather in the forecast, but it will take some time as we begin to dry out. We expect the  California quality to clean up and we take advantage of an extended dry spell. The better weather should have some affect on yields later this week however we do not expect to see overly significant increases until the last week of March. Temperatures are still cool forth next few days, but highs of 65 to 70 degrees are expected for the weekend. The market remains steady.
Florida Strawberries are in a slowly, but surely mode with limited numbers looking to trickle on through the end of March, Weather permitting. Quality is just fair as we move towards the end of the season there Market remains steady.
Mexico is all but finished with only a few crossings entering the USA.
Blackberries
There are decent supplies of Blackberries and we expect this to continue into next week. The primary growing region continues to be Mexico. The quality reports at the field level have been showing very occasional red cell.  Approximately 1 to 2 per clamshell. This defect may turn into a leaky berry during transit.
Raspberries
Volume is steady and the forecast for next week is for consistent numbers. Peak volumes are expected the first few weeks of May.
Blueberries
Consider the Chilean deal finished for the season. We may experience some price volatility as less supplies are available to the market place.  Mexico is still producing steady supplies of good quality fruit. Florida has started shipping locally grown blueberries. This should help bridge the gap in supplies we will be seeing the next few weeks. Market pricing is varied depending on the quality and shipping location. We expect prices to move to higher levels in approximately 7 to 10 days.
Cauliflower
Expect a roller coaster type of market over the next two weeks as the Desert regions begin to finish harvest. There is definitely a two tier pricing market for product coming out of Salinas or Santa Maria compared to that of the Desert. Product coming out of Salinas and Santa Maria will have quality condition effects from the heavy winter rains. We are seeing some yellow cast, richness and soft shoulder. Because of these condition effects they are discounting prices compared to that coming out of the Desert. If your purchase is based on quality then you will want to be loading in the Desert and if it is based solely on price then you will want to load out of the Central Coast of California.
Broccoli
Light supplies across all growing regions is keeping prices at double digit figures. It looks as though we will be in this supply gap for at least another 10 days. Salinas and Santa Maria are harvesting as well as the Central Valley of Mendota,CA. Quality out of these districts has been affected by the winter rains and shippers are discounting slightly. The Arizona growing regions are still producing but at a minimal rate and prices will be higher as they finish out their season. Demand for Mexican broccoli exceeds supplies as Mexico begins to finish up their winter season harvest. We will have limited supplies of our #1 label “Shui Ling” short cut crowns available for the next couple of weeks.
Artichokes
Production continues steady with improving demand especially on the Heirloom variety.  Most varieties currently are seeded or Thornless. at reduced prices. Production has shifted towards larger size profile as the weather improves in the desert. Frost and Freeze damage can be found on most Artichokes for the duration of the month although mostly cosmetic it can slow demand.
Stone Fruit
Not much change expected on stone fruit over the next 10 days. Looking for good supplies to continue on peaches, nectarines, and plums.  Market prices are expected to be steady on moderate demand. Quality has been solid with the fruit sizing on the large sizes. Expect the season to begin to wind down starting in early April.
Grapes
Mostly steady, consistent supplies on red seedless grapes expected for the coming week.  For reds, the market is generally steady to lower on pricing. This should continue into next week with some good opportunity buys if the demand allows. On green seedless, availability will peak this week. Next week, we will start see lighter supplies on green seedless as the import season winds down. We are forecasting a gap in late April before the new crop starts from Mexico. Please contact us now to lock up supplies to cover your needs.
Green Onions
Mexico has been finally started to hit full production and the market has responded accordingly. We anticipate additional easing before the market is likely to firm in a couple weeks. Quality continues to vary although showing signs of improvement.
Citrus
Oranges- We are currently in the middle of a 7 day stretch with no rain so harvesting is no issue. Supplies and the market are steady. Navels peaking on 88/72’s. The export demand is currently pulling strong numbers firming up the pricing on the Fancy grade. This looks to be the week to cut deals on Choice grade fruit.  Overall the quality and condition remains good with a few reports of puff and crease starting to show.
Lemons- The lemon crop is peaking on large sizes (115’s & larger). Flex pricing available on these large size. On the small sizes (165’s & smaller), the markets are firm and look to continue to creep higher as fewer small ones come in from the field. Quality is good to excellent in this District 1 crop.
Limes- From Mexico, supplies have been sporadic and unpredictable. With these limited supplies, the markets have been strong and actively headed higher.  Also, there is a large spread in pricing ($8-$10) based on quality.  Most shippers believe this current situation won’t improve until April when supplies are expected to increase.
Squash
Good supplies of Italian and yellow squash available in Nogales AZ this week. Quality has substantially improved over the past two weeks and supplies are expected to be steady for the 10 days. Markets have eased up and shippers are looking to move product.
Celery
Extremely active market this week. Supplies continue to be light and most of the pressure is being put on desert markets. Colder than normal weather over the past month slowed production and recent rains have delay harvests, extending the demand exceeds supply scenario into the next 10 days. Yuma and Oxnard temperatures are slowing warming, although ground temperatures are still colder than normal. Quality is fair, with some bowing and pith being reported out of multiple regions.
Onion
Here come the higher prices we spoke of the last newsletter…Jumbo yellows out of Northwest could reach the $ 12.00 range fob…Red onions will be in the 8-9 range and white onions are in the $50’s. Once Texas starts next week there will be some relief but not enough until California gets started in later April. Hold on! It’s going to be a bumpy ride.
Asparagus
Markets are waxing and waning at this point…there are very low-price deals on odd sizes i.e. Small and Extra Large. The promotion prices are hovering around the $30-$34 range with some deals being made with some deals being made in the high $20’s
With the Culican deal starting to wind down and Oberon not quite started we are going to see much higher prices on Asparagus for the end of the month and the Easter pull…Prices are starting to surface in the low $50’s anon California grass and high $40’s for Mexican.
Cantaloupes
Supplies were a bit lighter this week from the three main Caribbean Basin shipping points. Potential demand improved with some early spring promotional retail activity, but the promotions proved a bit disappointing as bouts of winter storms continued to move through the country from the Arctic down the West Coast and eastward. Next week supplies are expected to continue to be lower than normal. Caribbean temps are expected to be in the mid 80s with lows in the 60s. Okay but not hot enough to bring forward any waves of product. Quality remained good and sized continued to skew to jbo 9s and 9s. Wintry weather is moderating across the country but temperatures will still be below normal in the Midwest and East, and mild but not hot enough to spur melon consumption in the South and South east, keeping demand tepid. We look for a steady to slightly higher market next week with discounting on the slower trading days.
Honeydews
Honeydew supplies were a bit more robust this week and better weather in Mexico increased supplies from that area. The Caribbean production was steady, which is to say adequate. Quality was good increasing less waste throughout the pipeline which made for an effective supply increase. Demand remained lackluster as we stayed in a wintry weather pattern in the Midwest and East. Next week overall supplies look to be steady with offshore weather warm, but not hot and Mexico warming up, and entering their increased spring crops. Demand will continue to be tepid. We look for a steady to slightly lower market next week with some heavy discounting especially on fruit that is not top notch.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli and Cauliflower
Cauliflower   Weather slowing supplies and pushed prices higher . A return to normal weather should start to push supplies by the weekend although pricing remains elevated, expect better pricing to follow.
Broccoli    Production on broccoli is expected to improve in the desert although a significant portion of production comes from coastal production areas which continue to see weather related issues.  Supplies in Central Valley and the coast have seen extensive amount of rain diminishing quality to the point of not harvesting. Improved weather in the desert will help improve supplies  but quality issues from Northern California growing areas will continue limiting overall volume.  The market is expected to remain volatile through the month and beyond.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Most Herbs and Bunching Green production has been steady but has seen some delays and quality issues with the recent weather. Quality is likely to remain varied as will supplies until a normal weather pattern can be established.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg demand continues to be strong as well as  Romaine.   Wet weather has increased mildew pressure past the point of production , leaving supplies very limited. Improved weather has helped improve supplies but expect volatility for the duration of the Winter season.
OG Citrus
Lemons:   Steady production and improving quality has led to better demand and stable pricing.  Rain has temporarily delayed harvest but hasn’t impacted supplies . other than improving size profile. Expect a higher percentage of fancy, larger fruit available with lighter supplies of the smaller fruit .
Oranges  Navel production has been strong as well as sizing profiles. Rain temporarily slowed harvest but most growers picked ahead in anticipation. with overall supplies expected to be plentiful. The rain will help improve sizing profile and prices to remain competitive.
Limes:  Production has slowed and the market has firmed . Quality remains variable with lower sizing profile .
Grapefruit:  Production continues to be good from the desert and Mexico
Mandarins:  Production  has been strong as well as demand . Prices have been steady  Specialty Citrus including Pummelos, Caras , Bloods and Pixies continue to be available with weather expected to be warmer moving into the weekend.
OG Avocados
Mexico: Production from Mexico continues to be steady with strong demand . Supplies should continue to be good barring any manipulation from growers
California: Season has begun with limited production. Expect supplies to be much lower than previous years.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady with average supplies . Demand has been very strong. Supplies will remain moderate until temperatures moderate. Continue to plan ahead to get full coverage.
Potato production has finished for the season and remaining supplies will move into storage on Gold, Red and Russets.
Onion demand continues to be good as storage supplies are winding down . Expect supplies to tighten as the Spring crop has been delayed by the cool , wet weather in the West.
OG Asparagus
Mexico: Production from Mexico has begun to improve with temperatures returning to above normal.
California: Season has been delayed by inclement weather but expect supplies to be much lower than previous years.

Newsletter 2/28/19

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Lettuce

More of the same with weather setting the market tone. The past couple weeks have seen a return of daily frost and intermittent rain in the desert causing quality issues throughout all commodities. Epidermal peel and mildew are among the biggest issues affecting iceberg. Most cases eroding significantly during transit.  Temperatures are expected to finally return to normal although it will be at least a couple weeks before quality will improve. Expect markets to remain  volatile through the remainder of the Winter season and even more so during the Spring transition.

Mix Leaf

Romaine market has pushed higher as frost delays limit harvest.  Quality continues to be fair at best and will further erode as  epidermal peel worsens. Shippers are quoting all product with Epidermal peel and related discoloration.  Keep orders light and inventories low  green leaf and red leaf prices have elevated above romaine with uneven supplies among shippers. Quality is variable but showing fewer issues than Romaine

Brussels Sprouts
Production mainly from Mexico continues steady with improving quality leading to improved demand. The market has also begun to stabilize with narrower price range .

Celery
Active celery markets continue this week. Cooler than normal temperatures in growing regions are slowing growth, creating a demand exceeds supply scenario. Pith has been the main issue plaguing quality on west coast product . We expect supply shortages to continue through next week.

Strawberries
The markets continue to be active even with a decline in demand last week. California is still experiencing colder temperatures with chances of light rain on Wednesday and a heavier front on Friday. The harvest remains light in Oxnard and Santa Maria has just started to scratch the surface of the upcoming season. Look for markets to increase moving into the region with fewer numbers of open market fruit available. Quality is nice and improving as we look for rains to subside and temperatures to increase next week. Florida markets are experiencing an uptick due mostly to the placement of ad commitments coming into effect and the decline in yields. This decline has been caused by adverse weather in previous weeks. Quality is still good although plants are producing lower yields. look for this market to continue to be stronger into the week. Mexican fruit coming into the Texas area for distribution is declining in numbers as quality begins to be an issue. Rains in some of the growing areas combined with the natural aging of this crops growth cycle are the reason for the higher number of lessor quality fruit in the marketplace. This reduction in production has caused the market to go up in Texas and has also incurred greater demand and firmer markets in the other berry growing regions.

Blackberries
Blackberries are in steady supply crossing into Texas from Mexico. Quality has started to improve after some shippers were reporting a good amount of red cell defect caused by rain. Look for the market to increase slightly as production and crossings slowly decline.

Raspberries
Raspberries continue to be in good production out of Mexico with quality being good. Delays in transfers arriving from the border are causing some temporary shortages. The market remains steady

Blueberries
Blueberries are in good supplies out of both Mexico and Chile. The market remains steady and there are several pack styles to choose from. Quality remains good while Mexican fruit is commanding a slight premium due to less transit time eating away at shelf life.

Cauliflower
Prices have increased the last few days as we find lighter supplies out of the Desert growing regions. Some of the seasonal shippers out of the Imperial Valley are either finished or winding down for the season which is taking some volume off the open market. Market will remain strong as we finish out the week.

Broccoli
Market has strengthened due to better demand and cooler temperatures in the California and Arizona growing regions. Look for prices to continue increasing as the week finishes out. There is limited volume as well coming out of Central Mexico thus dropping the amount of crossings into Texas. Central Mexico is expected to have limited supplies both this week and next.

Artichokes
Production continues steady with improving demand especially on the Heirloom variety.  Most varieties currently are seeded or Thornless. at reduced prices. Production has shifted towards larger size profile as the weather improves in the desert. . Frost and Freeze damage can be found on most Artichokes for the duration of the month although mostly cosmetic it can slow demand.

Stone Fruit
The market is generally steady to lower as arrivals/supplies have increased from both coast. A good selection of peaches, nectarine, and plums are available.  The fruit continues to peak on the larger sizes. Quality reports are reporting good quality on high color.  Expect more of the same for the coming week.

Grapes
Prices have started to gradually decline as supplies from both coast have improved as we begin to fill the pipeline. We looking for the importers to get more aggressive in pricing as supplies continue to pick up. Early to mid March will give us the most aggressive ad opportunities since we finished domestic production. Quality has been good with very few lots exhibiting issues like mold or wet berries.

Green Onions
Production from Mexico has been slow to return especially on iceless supplies. Cooler weather has kept prices steady although there has been deals available on smaller sizes. Expect supplies to improve as temperatures are expected to return to normal heading into next week. . Quality continues to vary although showing signs of improvement there is still some arrival issues.

Squash
Slightly lighter supply this week on Italian squash, a result of transitioning growing areas in Mexico. Supplies are keeping up with demand however and quality is improving. There are still deals on Italian and yellow squash this week. Supplies are expected to remain fairly consistent into next week.

Citrus
Oranges- More of the same this week. Rainy conditions continue to persist and effect harvest. Shipper are therefore trying to work ahead and we suggest placing your orders 2-3 days in advance. The Navels continue to peak on 72/88/113’s. Export demand has increased recently and has firmed up the domestic market. 138’s have become less plentiful as the market has dropped below growing cost. Quality and flavor continue to be excellent with the Navels brixing 13-14. Overall, the market is expected to be steady for the next week.

Lemons- Overall supplies are good as we finish up the Desert Crop (District 3). From the Central Valley (District 1) the crop is peaking on 115/95/140’s. The market is expected to remain steady for this week. As we get deeper into the month of March, smaller sizes 200/235’s will become limited as the fruit has continued to grow and size up with each rain storm. Quality remains strong.

Limes- The market seems to be holding steady this week. The peak sizes are still on the smaller sizes as we are into the transition into the next crop cycle. Supplies are expected to be limited during this transitional period. Supplies will be unpredictable at times and we suggestion being very cautious on doing any ads. This situation is expected to last for the month of March.

Asparagus
Supplies surged and the market slowly retreated but with the cooler weather production stalled and the market to firm with many ad promotions . As the temperatures are forecast to warm expect supplies once again push forward. There appears to be plenty of product available once the weather improves heading into next week.

Cantaloupes
Cantaloupes finally awoke from their slumber this week. Supplies were still

ample with good quality and sizes peaking on 9s followed by jbo 9 s and 12s. Demand has picked up as retailers began spring promotional activity as we head into March. Quoted markets were steady but with less discounting. Next week this trend looks to continue as Spring approaches and retail promotions should continue.

Honeydews
This market has weakened as supplies and quality have improved as a result of hot weather in the Caribbean and warmer temperatures in western in Mexico. Demand remains rather stagnant due to legacy of high prices especially compared to cantaloupes. This dynamic should remain into next week. Expect steady to lower markets next week with abundant discounting.

Organic Items

OG Broccoli and Cauliflower
Cauliflower   Weather slowing supplies and pushed prices higher . A return to normal weather should start to push supplies by the end of next week . Expect better pricing to follow

Broccoli    Production on broccoli has also stalled with much cooler weather in the desert. Supplies in Central Valley and the coast have seen extensive amount of rain diminishing quality to the point of not harvesting. Improved weather in the desert will help improve supplies  but quality issues from Northern California growing areas will continue limiting overall volume.  The market is expected to remain elevated through early next month and beyond.

OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Most Herbs and Bunching Green production has been steady but has seen some delays and quality issues with the recent weather. Quality is likely to remain varied as will supplies until a Normal weather pattern can bee established.

OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg demand continues to be strong as well as

Romaine .   Wet weather has increased mildew pressure past the point of production , leaving supplies very limited. Improved weather will begin to help begin improving supplies but expect volatility for the duration of the Winter season .

OG Citrus
Lemons:   Steady production and improving quality has led to better demand and stable pricing.  Mexico and Chile quality is still variable and supplies should hold steady with a higher percentage of fancy fruit available .

Oranges  Navel production has been strong as well as sizing profiles. Rain temporarily slowed harvest but most growers picked ahead in anticipation. with overall supplies expected to be plentiful. The rain will help improve sizing profile and prices to remain competitive.

Limes:  Production has slowed and the market has firmed . Quality remains variable with lower sizing profile .

Grapefruit:  Production continues to be good from the desert and Mexico

Mandarins:  Production  has been strong as well as demand . Prices have been steady

OG Avocados 
Mexico: Production from Mexico continues to be strong meeting strong demand . Supplies should continue to be good barring any manipulation from growers .

California: Season will begin in coming weeks but expect supplies to be much lower than previous years .

OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady with average supplies . Demand has been very strong. Supplies will remain moderate until temperatures moderate. Continue to plan ahead to get full coverage.

Potato production has finished for the season and whatever remaining supplies will move into storage on Gold, Red and Russets.

Onion demand has been good and production has finished as supplies will be shipped out of storage Expect the Spring crop to begin in coming weeks .

OG Asparagus
Mexico: Production from Mexico has slowed temporarily although weather is expected to improve with temperature above normal heading into next week.