6/29/17

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Lettuce

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

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

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

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

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

6/23/17

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Lettuce

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

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

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

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

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

6/7/17

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Lettuce

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

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

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

5/31/17

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Lettuce

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

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

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

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

5/25/17

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Lettuce

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

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

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

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

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

5/17/17

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Lettuce

 Supplies from Salinas and Santa Maria settled and consumer confidence returned once the market  found its’ footing. Cooler weather this week has kept volume in check but demand has also slowed slightly. Many shippers have firmed pricing although warmer weather is forecast for the weekend and should push supplies slightly ahead.  Quality  has been mostly good  with some  mildew  and over mature heads  showing issues on arrival.
Mix Leaf
Romaine and Heart markets adjusted  and demand is  slowly rebounding. Production will continue to vary as many shippers are still experiencing harvest schedules interrupted by Spring rains.  Quality has been very good  with mildew and fringe burn showing on occasion.  Local Homegrown production areas are starting to improve on Green leaf and Red leaf  and Romaine  is reportedly not far behind. Romaine hearts production varies by shipper allowing for a wide spread in the market.  Expect possible continued sporadic interruptions in supplies through  May which will keep volumes imbalanced among shippers.
Brussels Sprouts
Production continues from Mexico and Central California with declining quality due to heavy insect pressure leading to a decrease in supplies. The market remains strong for good quality.   Supplies are expected to lighten throughout the month.
Celery
Markets are highest they have been all year with very little relief in sight. Volume remains extremely light on all sizes.  Little relief is expected for at least another 2 weeks.  Unseasonably cold weather on the west coast has slowed growth significantly in Oxnard and Santa Maria.  Salinas would normally start at the end of this month, but due to the cold weather will be at least a week behind schedule. Michigan growers are reporting that their production will also be delayed until the middle or end of June which will keep pressure on west coast production. there are small amounts trickling in from Mexico but currently not enough to ease the production gaps we are now facing.  To add to the problems, seeder is becoming more of a problem industry wide.
Broccoli
Strong markets continue this week. Demand has been strong as we near the summer season on the west coast.  Mexico has increased production this week which has helped take some strain off Salinas production. Santa Maria is picking up production and we should see more steady supplies as we head into June. Quality has been very nice with very few problems to report.
Cauliflower
This market has bottomed out and shippers are looking to move product this week.  We expect good supplies into next week.  Quality has been very nice. Quality reports show good white color and strong structure coming out of Salinas and Santa Maria.  Weather is expected to be warm next week which will bring on more product, although we may see quality issues surface if it gets too hot over the weekend.
Artichokes

 Production for the Heirloom/ Green Globe  variety is  winding down from Castroville CA which currently has a medium sizing profile  but will start to peak on smaller sizes. Production of the seeded varieties with larger sizing profiles has  started to increase.
Asparagus
Domestic supplies from Salinas, Central  Valley and the North West  continue with good  quality and good demand. Limited supplies from Mexico are also available as Baja production areas will begin to increase in coming weeks.  The market has eased  post  Mothers Day and increased offshore supplies from Peru.
Strawberries
Santa Maria, Salinas, and Watsonville continue to have good quality. With the weather warming up over the next couple of days, volume will continue to increase. Santa Maria should not expect to see down sizing for a couple more weeks. Going into the Memorial Day pull there should be plenty of volume. We should see the same situation with Organic Straws, good quality and increasing volume.
Cantaloupes
This has been transition week.  The Caribbean Basin has harvested their last fields and when they arrive and are sold, they will be for all intents and purposes done for the year.  Domestic production has started but in a much smaller and somewhat delayed way than anticipated, which avoided an overlap glut.  Demand, however has been rather anemic. Offshore fruit lowered prices to make sure they were able to sell their last volume blast.  Domestics were able to clean up during the first part of the week but as production slowly crept up, unsold inventories began to accumulate, especially on 12s and 15s.  Next week domestic production will kick in to full swing peaking, we suspect on Jbo and regular 9s.  Caribbean will cease to be a competitive factor.   Demand should pick up for Memorial day.  We look for a bit weaker market early next week, but by mid week the market should level if not firm up.
Honeydews

This has been an transition week as well.  However the phase in of domestic production is about a week to ten days behind cantaloupes.  Weak demand has plagued the markets on honeydews as well.  Mexico has been in abundant supplies and cheap. Overall off shores were trading lower and even the few domestic supplies were being somewhat discounted. Mexico remained cheap. Next week off shore should be cleaning up the last of their arrivals. Mexico will continue to be abundant and cheap and domestic will pick up production slowly.  We look for a continuing dull market most of next week with a possibly firming toward the end of the week in response to holiday demand.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Broccoli and Cauliflower production has hit another gap in supplies but warmer weather forecast for the  weekend should  increase offerings and lower pricing heading into next week. Uneven supplies look to continue  through Mid June.
OG  Herbs & Bunch Greens
Most of the Herbs and Bunching Greens continue with improving supplies.  Quality continues  to be very nice with occasional intermittent shortages. Expect Local Homegrown supplies to start increasing which will  lessen the dependence on West Coast supplies.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Supplies have improved but still sporadic  from Central Valley and Salinas.  Varying shortages will continue for the next couple weeks  although markets should be at a more sustainable level with homegrown offerings are expected to increase in coming weeks.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrots production will be strong for the next few weeks as weather has improved leaving it as one of the few commodities to promote. Potato and Onion demand have also been good with White and Yellow Onion supplies  transitioning more to Southern  and Central California with good  quality and availability.
OG Citrus
Steady production with mostly Larger profiles  continue on Lemons  with good demand for export keeping pressure on the market to remain active. Valencia production has started to ramp up with  Navels finishing. Peruvian Limes are in full swing with excellent quality.

5/11/17

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Lettuce

Lettuce supplies returned to normal but many customers continue to be cautious with  high priced lettuce still in the system as the market has severely corrected. Not sure when  customer confidence will return  but look for supplies to continue to vary with many shippers leaving over mature fields behind and rain affected plantings may continue through May.  Quality  has been mostly good  with some  mildew  and over mature heads  showing issues on arrival.  Shopping for lighter weights and darker color spec is the best practice currently.
Mix Leaf
Romaine and Heart  markets bottomed out and demand is  slowly returning to normal .  Production will continue to vary as many shippers are still experiencing harvest schedules interrupted by Spring rains.  Quality has been very good  with mildew and fringe burn showing on occasion. Expect Demand to improve now that prices have adjusted but it will take a couple weeks for the equilibrium to take hold and gain buyers confidence.   Expect continued sporadic interruptions in supplies through  May.
Brussels Sprouts
Production continues from Mexico and Central California with mostly good quality. The market remains strong on strong demand.  Supplies are expected to lighten by the end of the month.
Celery
This market continue to gain momentum. There is simply not enough supply to cover widespread demand. Expect prices to remain strong through at least the next two weeks. Oxnard is the main growing area until Salinas starts production in early June. Cool weather this week is expected to continue into next week, slowing plant development and could delay the Salinas celery season.

Quality has been nice. Good color and overall structure and minimal seeder.

Michigan production is not expected to start until late June or early July.
Broccoli
Demand continues to exceed supplies.  Current market pricing will remain going into next week.  Supplies continue to be disrupted due to planting gaps caused by winter rains.  Shippers are trying to cover contracts only at this point leaving very little for the open market.  Please place any orders you may have in advance so that we can make sure to get your order covered.
Cauliflower
The market is weakening as we head into the weekend.  Prices are sliding and feel like they will continue in this manner next week. Make sure any orders you are placing have price protection.
Artichokes

 Production for the Heirloom/ Green Globe  variety is  winding down from Castroville CA which currently has a medium sizing profile  but will start to peak on smaller sizes. Production of the seeded varieties with larger sizing profiles will  remain steady although with a much reduced flavor profile.
Asparagus
Limited domestic supplies from Salinas, Central  Valley, and the North West  continue with good  quality and strong demand. Limited supplies from Mexico are still available but with variable quality.  The market has peaked with increased offshore supplies from Peru and   the bulk of the Mother’s Day demand behind us.
Strawberries
Santa Maria and Watsonville has had decent volume but with the cooler weather it has slowed things down a bit. The cooler weather will be with us over the next 7-10 days, There are still really good numbers on organic Straws and Stems.
Cantaloupes
Off shore and Mexican cantaloupes struggled through another week of lackluster demand and ample to abundant supplies and the market accordingly traded a bit lower.  This was all complicated by the start of domestic production in Imperial Valley and Phoenix, although there was not much volume on these as yet.  Next week the Caribbean will still have one more week of good volume. Mexico will be steady and domestic production should pick up considerably.  We look for the market to be steady to lower next week with domestics trading at the top of the food chain but coming off in price.  The following week Caribbean production should fall, domestic will be in full swing and the market should find itself.
Honeydews

Like cantaloupes, honeydews struggled with week. One grower started domestically, and more should start next week but a few days later than cantaloupes.  Caribbean has about a week to go and Mexico will continue with steady and ample output. We look for a steady market  to lower market on dews next week
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Broccoli and Cauliflower production has hit another gap in supplies and have customers scrambling  to cover orders.  Better production is expected next week but shortages will remain.  Uneven supplies look to continue  through May.
OG  Herbs & Bunch Greens
Most of the Herbs and Bunching Greens continue with improving supplies.  Quality continues  to be very nice with occasional intermittent shortages. Expect Local Homegrown supplies to start increasing which will  lessen the dependence on West Coast supplies.
OG  Leaf and Lettuce
Supplies have improved but still sporadic  from Central Valley and Salinas.  Varying shortages will continue for the next couple weeks  although markets should be at a more sustainable level with homegrown offerings are expected to increase in coming weeks.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrots production will be strong for the next few weeks as weather has improved leaving it as one of the few commodities to promote. Potato and Onion demand has also been good with White and Yellow Onion supplies  transitioning more to Southern  and Central California with good  quality and availability.
OG Citrus
Steady production with mostly Larger profiles  continue on Lemons  with good demand for export keeping pressure on the market to remain active. Valencia production has started to ramp up with  Navels winding down. Peruvian Limes are in full swing with excellent quality.

5/6/17

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Lettuce
 As  expected  production from Salinas and Santa Maria as  well as  regional areas in Las Cruces, NM  hit their stride with near full production.  The initial gap in supplies has passed  and we are in a”glut” situation although a secondary “gap”  is expected  by the middle of the month.  Expect these surges in volatility to last through May and beyond with most planting schedules altered throughout the Summer and into the Fall. Quality has been exceptional from Las Cruces and is improving daily from Salinas.
Mix Leaf
Romaine and Heart  markets appear to have bottomed out with surging production exceeding moderate demand.  Expect Demand to improve now that prices have adjusted but it will take a couple weeks for the equilibrium to take hold and gain buyers confidence.  With New Jersey starting  Green leaf and Red leaf  many East Coast customers ran to get covered but experienced lesser than expected quality and have resumed buying from the West Coast. Expect continued sporadic interruptions in supplies through  May.
Brussels Sprouts
 Heavy production continues from Mexico and Central California with mostly good quality. The market remains strong on strong demand.  Most shippers are reporting to have good supplies although are expected to lighten through the end of the month.
Celery
This market continues to gain steam and is showing no signs of slowing down. Oxnard is attempting to keep up with demand but has not been able to produce the volume.  Large sizes are less available industry wide. These strong markets are expected to continue through this month until Salinas and Michigan production begins in June.  Quality is improving and less seeder has been reported this week.
Broccoli
After a little lull in the market we are now experiencing a quick upturn in the market.  California is in lighter production due too planting gaps caused by winter rains three months ago.  Mexico is also winding up its  winter production for the season so there is less volume from all areas.  Prices should stabilize by early next week.
Cauliflower
Market has perked back up after a week of low prices.  Demand is very good and production is off due to planting gaps caused by winter rains a few months ago.  It looks as though we will be in this current situation through the middle of next week.  Pre – books are recommended.
Artichokes

Production for the Heirloom/ Green Globe  variety is  starting to wind down from Castroville CA which currently has a medium sizing profile  but will start to peak on smaller sizes in coming weeks. Production of the seeded varieties with larger sizing profiles will  remain steady although with a much reduced flavor profile.
Asparagus
Limited domestic supplies from Salinas , Central  Valley and the North West  continue with good  quality and strong demand. Limited supplies from Mexico are still available but with variable quality.  The market has peaked with increased offshore supplies from Peru and   warm weather pressing production ahead of  the last of the Holiday promotions.
Strawberries
Expect a steady increase in production next week as we jump into the mothers day pull.  The Oxnard area is dwindling down on volume as we move to the Santa Maria and Watsonville areas. Look for berry size to increase in both areas and expect stems to be available now thru June in good numbers. Organic Strawberries will see a big increase in volume next week.
Cantaloupes
Robust production in the Caribbean, ample production in Mexico and a absence of retail promotions forced the market downward most of the week. Also one grower started with domestic lopes in California but in a light way with most of the fruit previously committed. Sizes continued to run heaviest to 9s followed by jbo 9s and 12s. Overall quality is good.  Next week the Caribbean will still be producing as well as Mexico.  By the end of the week more domestic growers will start in with volume coming the week of 5/15.  Market should be dull and steady with spot deals lower than quoted markets most if not all of next week.
Honeydews

Moderate supplies of Caribbean fruit was offset with copious supplies in Mexico leading to a two tiered market.  Caribbean fruit held steady with some dealing. Mexico was weak and dealing a low prices all week.  One grower started domestic production but was just topping fields. Sizes in all areas ran to mostly 5s and 6s.  Next week Mexico supplies will continue to be ample, and Caribbean should be adequate. Domestic will be very light but picking up the week of 5/15. Market should be steady next week.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Broccoli and Cauliflower production has  hit another gap in supplies and have customers scrambling  to cover orders.  Better production is  scheduled for the end of next week but shortages will remain.  Uneven supplies look to continue  through May.
OG  Herbs & Bunch Greens
 Most of the Herbs and Bunching Greens are North this week with improving supplies.  Quality continues  to be very nice with still some  intermittent shortages.
OG  Leaf and Lettuce
 Supplies have improved but not full operational from Central Valley and Salinas. Sporadic shortages will continue for the next couple weeks  although markets should be at a more sustainable level.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrots production will be strong for the next few weeks as weather has improved leaving it as one of the few commodities to promote. Potato and Onion demand has also been good with White and Yellow Onion supplies  transitioning more to Southern  and Central California with good  quality and availability.
OG Citrus
Steady production with Larger profiles  continues on Lemons  with good demand for export keeping pressure on the market to remain active. Valencia production has started to ramp up with  Navels winding down. Peruvian Limes are in full swing with excellent quality.

2/15/17

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Lettuce
The lettuce market is at a crossroad. Shippers continue to be well ahead of budget with a finite amount of acres left, staring at an uncertain transition schedule with the heavy rains  affecting  plantings in Northern California. Yet many customers haven’t felt the spike in demand that matches  prices offered by shippers. In addition quality continues  to be  marginal and  ideal desert weather continues to reluctantly push product forward. As a result the market is likely to remain high but there will likely be buying opportunities scattered among various shippers.  Processors have been purchasing acreage leading to the  initial surge in pricing.
Mix Leaf
Romaine and Heart markets rose sharply as well with a  similar scenario to iceberg pricing affecting both supply and demand.  Many shippers are stripping down Romaine and producing hearts which continues to keep heart prices lower than carton Romaine. Processors have been purchasing open acreage tightening supplies of the whole category. Near normal temperatures forecast for the rest of the month but possible rain this weekend could contribute to a worsening mildew issue. Green and Red leaf  are lighter for some shippers and steady for others mostly being pulled along with Romaine. Overall quality remains variable from shipper to shipper.
Brussel Sprouts
Heavy volume continues from  mostly Mexico. Most shippers are offering volume discounts on all sizes with quality mostly very nice but issues with large inventories have hampered some  shipments .  Rain  along the coast and Mexico should help  extend the season well into Summer.
Celery

This market remains sluggish this week, although heavy rains are expected thursday, last throughout the weekend.  This will delay harvest and begin to create supply gaps as early as this weekend.  Yuma and Texas markets will react and strengthen markets through next week as supplies clean up.  This season has seen nice quality, but over saturation and mud in the bags could create quality problems down the road.
Broccoli
Prices have declined due to heavier production in the Desert growing regions and Central Mexico.  We will be in ample supplies through next week and then we should start to see lighter volume from all growing locations.  Deals are still being made on the Central Coast and most product has pin rot.  Quality has been excellent out of Central Mexico with nice uniform heads and no hollow core.
Cauliflower
The market has declined from last week but seems to be settling in at current trading levels.  Some shippers are out for the remainder of the week so there is not an over supply situation.  Quality is all over the board make sure product is inspected before shipping.
Artichokes

Production has started to  steady while demand is  improving heading into  “Spring” promotions . Light frost along the coast and the desert should start to diminish also contributing to improved demand. Peak production will be on medium large sizes with the better value on the medium sizes. Spring production of the Heirloom/ Green Globe  variety is underway.  A Spring time favorite of the artichoke  aficionado .
Asparagus
Warm weather in  Mexico has  pushed production forward.  Demand has  been good with Valentine Day ads  and should continue to improve as the market adjusts  to additional volume.  Quality has  been mostly very  nice which should allow for promotions for the next couple weeks .Many shippers have transitioned into 28lb cartons.
Strawberries

With the expected storm coming at the tail end of this week, things are going to snug up a bit. Oxnard is expecting up to 5 inches of rain on Friday. If that happens it will drastically affect the production in that area. We are in the peak weeks for strawberries in Texas right now. Volume has been going strong for the past week and we should slowly start to see it down trend from here as California gets ready to start up.
Cantaloupes

The winter melon market has be dominated by stubbornly lackluster demand this year. Cold and wintry weather along with flooding and storms have depressed consumption.  At the same time, supplies have been adequate to ample all season long. Sizes have skewed toward large which yields more packages per acre.  Next week supplies should continue to be ample and run large.  Demand may be improving as weather around the country next weeks and in most urban areas look to be unseasonably mild (40s to 60s).  It is also the peak of vacation season which helps as well as people tend to go to warmer climates and eat summer treats. We look for the market to improve next week.
Honeydews

Like with cantaloupes, the wintry weather had kept demand dull most of the season.  Supplies overall have been lighter than with lopes, but lately supplies have increased, especially with Mexican imports picking up. Demand should improve on honeydews as well with mild weather expected in the Urban areas next week and  winter vacation season in full swing. Yet we see no real change in the market next week
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Broccoli  market continues to be influenced by heavy rain along the coast tightening overall supplies with quality issues arising from the rain soaked areas pushing demand towards the desert  although Mexico production has increased of late and has helped ease the market.   Cauliflower production has steadied along with the market.  Quality is good  and the market should remain strong heading into the end of the month.
OG  Herbs & Bunch Greens
Most of the Herbs and Bunching Greens  have seen stable production from the desert although pricing has been impacted by Coastal  rains putting pressure on the desert. Quality has been excellent from the desert but heavy aphid pressure and possible return of mildew pressure from this weekends showers will  likely start to impact availability in coming weeks.
OG Lettuce & Leaf
Quality has been improving but  growers continue to  battle mildew and now aphid issues leaving supplies varied.  Weekend  forecast of Rain showers won’t help  quality and may further tighten supplies and likely higher prices.
OG  Root Vegetables
Most Root Vegetables are starting to see improvements .Supplies  looked to rebound in coming weeks.  Carrots production has been slowed by rains in the Central Valley but has improved as some production has shifted to the desert.  Potato and Onion demand has  also been good withWhite and Yellow Onion supplies from Mexico starting to increase.  ​
OG Citrus
Rain has reduced supplies by preventing steady harvest but the fruit continues to grow and should improve quickly when the weather dries out.  Strong demand has pushed up pricing. Rain forecast for the end of this week will once again delay harvest but most shippers have been trying to get ahead by inventorying bins between storms.  The Navel crop set is good and supplies should improve with improved weather although sizing profile continues to increase the longer the fruit is on the tree.  Look for better deals on larger fruit. The Lemon crop should start to wind down from the desert and transition to the Central Valley and Oxnard where rain continues to affect supplies and keep prices active.  Limes have been harder hit with poor quality / color but should start to rebound as  the weather improves.

12/16/16

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Lettuce 

The market continues to hold steady with improving quality. Production is reported to be on budget but lackluster Demand seems to be the overriding  factor holding the market down with most shippers  poised to raise prices at the first hint of interest.  Quality has been improving daily although crack ribs , seeder and tip burn are still  evident.  Mild weather through Christmas  should keep production steady  with strong cooling trend forecast for after Christmas into the New Year.

 

Mix Leaf

Production has shifted fully to the desert.  Demand has improved on Romaine Hearts with Romaine , Greenleaf and Redleaf lagging behind. Many shippers are reporting slightly lighter volume with improving quality and  expecting improved demand  for the Holidays. A more realistic scenario has the markets steady through Christmas with a chance to spike if forecast cold weather materializes for the end of the month.

 

Brussels Sprouts

Continued heavy production from  Northern California and Mexico is keeping up with heavy Holiday demand.  Quality had been mostly very good with some issues arising from aged inventory. Heavy rains later this week in Northern California could impact harvest in the mist of the Christmas pull.

 

Celery

Stronger markets on all sizes this week.  Christmas demand has ramped up, lightening supply, with production mostly isolated to Oxnard and Santa Maria areas.  Demand has increased on larger sizes as the majority of production has yielded small sized celery, a result of cold weather we have experienced these past few weeks.  Approaching rainstorms are expected to slow production even further, and this market should continue to trend upwards through the New Year.

 

Broccoli

Demand and prices have remained unchanged this week.  Supplies are in line with demand keeping any price fluctuation in check.  The Santa Maria Valley along with Mexico crossing in Texas continue to be the best options for loading best availability and pricing.  Supplies out of the Imperial and Yuma growing regions have increased and quality has been nice.

 

Cauliflower

Demand is beginning to wane as prices north of $23.00 have slowed down the buying.  Look for prices to decline going into next week as the Holiday pull ends and better availability out of all growing regions.  Quality is fair as expected for this time of year. Winter flower has some fuzziness and light yellow cast domes.

 

Artichokes

Light supplies from Northern and Central California has firmed the market.  Delayed transition to the desert has also lessened available supplies until after New Years . Minimal amounts of the Green Globe or Heirloom variety are being offered at a premium from Castroville.

Strawberries

Lighter demand this week. Markets have eased up which is typical for this time of year.  Florida production is increasing and central Mexico berries are starting to trickle in.  Quality has improved in most growing areas.  Recent rains in California and Florida may affect quality for the short term, although there currently is plenty of volume and harvesters are able pick through damaged product and leave more in the field.

Watermelons

The upward price trend is continuing as supplies decrease to the lower levels of winter. Some offshore melons have arrived on the East Coast affecting the market there, But over all the Nogales and McAllen watermelon markets are active with demand slowly beginning to exceed the supply.     Produce West can load out of either McAllen or Nogales to cover your winter watermelon needs.

 

Cantaloupes

Mexico has all but wrapped up and supplies are now mostly from the Caribbean basin.  Sizes from there continue to be running large with the bulk of the volume peaking on 9s and jbo 9s.   Supplies of those sizes are ample and look to remain so next week.  Demand has been flat as winter weather and holidays have depressed demand melons overall.  We look for the market to remain steady at moderate prices with deals below quotes being made when necessary.

 

Honeydews

Mexico has all but wrapped up this week until after the first of the year. Offshore supplies continue to be ample and running a size range of 4s thru 6s, peaking on 5s and jbo 5s. Like cantaloupes demand has been flat in the face of winter cold and the unseasonable nature of melons. We look for a dull and steady market next week with some dealing off quoted prices.