12/10/20

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Conventional Items
Lettuce
The market is still sluggish with mild demand and steady supplies. Quality has been mostly very nice pushing yields higher. Prices will likely settle near current levels until cold temperatures impact harvest . Currently only isolated frost delays have been recorded although traditionally the next 2 weeks are the coldest in the desert. The uncertainty of CV-19 restrictions nationwide has kept demand anchored.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine  Demand for romaine remains moderate with surging supplies . The market is adjusting to light demand although hearts are slower to adjust . Most shippers are interested in moving volume and are negotiable. Quality has been Very nice in most production areas with isolated, mild epidermal blister seen. The next couple weeks are critical as , historically, temperatures reach their lowest of the season which could impact quality and supplies. Forecast calls for much cooler overnight temperatures early next week.
Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  prices have eased to more sustainable levels with most shippers negotiable. Quality remains very nice quality from most production areas.
Celery
Demand for the Christmas pull has started and prices are trending upwards. We expect demand to be pretty good over the next 10 days. It would be wise to purchase early and hold inventory than to wait until the end of the week or buying next week. Prices will continue to escalate. Best availability and pricing is coming out of the Oxnard and Santa Maria growing regions. Quality is good with nice green color and heavy weights out of both growing regions.
Artichokes
Production of the thornless varieties from Northern California continue to sustain mild frost damage as overnight temperatures drop near freezing. . Availability of  “clean ” artichokes will be extremely limited until we transition to new production areas later this month.  Heirloom and Original varieties will return in the Spring.
Broccoli
Market has turned around as cooler weather has slowed production in California, Arizona and Central Mexico. Generally there is lighter supplies this time of year as production out of Salinas comes to an end and Santa Maria supplies lighten up, coupled with production out of the Desert regions just getting started this scenario is commonplace. Central Mexico is also experiencing cooler temps and overcast days so supplies are limited out of there as well. The expectation is for the market to remain active over the next 10 days.
Cauliflower
Overall light supplies and cooler temperatures have slowed down harvest production. Market is expected to remain active over the next 10 days. Salinas has all but finished for the season, Santa Maria is now in their winter production which is limited acres being grown over the next 3 months and the Desert region is just getting started with light production and will slowly ramp up over the next two weeks. The qulaity on what is available is nice, clean white domes and green jackets.
Brussels Sprouts
Coastal California supplies continue to be strong with a mix of quality and sizing. Pricing remains elevated in the desert due to mostly transferred product from Northern California production areas. There has been a lull in demand post Thanksgiving that has offered value buys but traditionally strong December demand will likely continue to keep prices elevated .
Green Onions
Mexico production continues steady with quality and yields showing improvement. Pricing remains mostly steady but is expected to move higher starting next week as traditionally colder temperatures and seasonal labor shortages will severely impact supplies . Stock up now !
Strawberries
Volume will increase slightly over the next few weeks and will be slightly more favorable than previously expected due to unfavorable weather that was forecast to impact the crop never materialized. We expect California production to continue to gradually decline in the weeks ahead while Central Mexico production increases each week, eventually resulting in higher production volume as we approach 2021.  Oxnard is producing good sized fruit with good flavor as a result of cooler nighttime temperatures. Santa Maria has seen good overall quality with good flavor in all varieties. The Northern District will wrap up their season as a result of recent rains. Florida has seen some bruised fruit due to warm temperatures over the weekend. Organic volume is slightly better than originally forecasted, but we will experience a natural decline out of California.
Raspberries
An improvement in temperatures across each region has resulted in an uptick in volume this week. Unfortunately, last week the extremely cool temperatures slowed fruit maturation which will  push more volume into this week. Going forward we expect production volume to gradually decrease each week as we approach year end. Oxnard has seen good size and color with good flavor. Baja and Central Mexico have seen good size and good overall quality.
Blueberries
Production out of Peru is past it’s peak and will continue with strong volumes though year end. The Mexican season has begun and is ramping up quickly. Baja volumes will continue with stable volumes though year end. Chile will begin production this month with light volumes.
Blackberries
Supply has exceeded the projections through the front half of the week. The additional supply was driven by improved night temperatures in the USA and Mexico which released the fruit which was held up from last week’s cold night temperatures. We expect steady supply for the next several weeks.
Stone Fruit
Utility red plums are still available. There is little to no availability this week on most stone fruit varieties, as we are currently in a production gap. Offshore fruit is expected to start arriving next week. We will start off with strong markets on most varieties, which will continue into January.
Grapes
Plenty of storage fruit still available. Good supplies are expected to last through the holiday. Lighter volumes likely towards the end of the month, particularly on green grape varieties. There will be better supplies of red grapes, as storage fruit will carry through into January. Black seedless varieties will likely sell out before the new year. Demand has been steady, which should continue for the coming weeks. Imported fruit has begun to arrive on both coasts. Imported volume is expected to increase towards the end of the month which will help keep up with demand. Quality is holding up, although some issues have recently been reported on green grapes.
Citrus
Oranges – California navels are in full production out of the California San Joaquin valley. Color is improving and overall quality has been strong. Volumes are peaking on the 88 and 113 count fruit and markets appear to have bottomed out. Steady markets are expected this week, followed by a slight uptick in demand as we get closer to the holiday.
Lemons – Chilean lemons are finished for the season. District 1 and district 3 are both in production, further adding to the supply exceeds demand scenario we are currently in. More lemons are expected to flood the market in the coming weeksand shippers are looking to move volume at cheap prices. Run offers by us on ALL orders.
Limes – Plenty of volume available this week on most sizes. Mexico has experienced good growing conditions over the past few weeks and quality has been very nice. Shippers are looking to move inventories, especially on 175 and 200 count fruit. We are currently in a ‘supply exceeds demand scenario’ so run offers by us on limes.
Dry Onions
Market is $5.00 to $6.00 on Jumbo yellows in Northwest. Whites are $12.00 . Reds are in the $6.00 range. If you can buy a block of loads the market is generally $5.00. I talked to an East Coat broker this morning and he said the East Coast is almost no existent as far as demand goes. They had a decent run with the food basket deal, but that’s over for most receivers. Doom and Gloom. Waiting for the vaccine to arrive for widespread inoculation, until then WEAR A MASK!
Asparagus
Not much different than last week. Demand continues to increase somewhat
with lower prices being offered from Mexican grown product.
There has been talk of killing fern and starting early in Caborca, which is the
really big Mexican deal that starts big volume in February…These growers are
trying to take part of the “higher” prices that usually come along in the early
winter. We’ll see how that goes. Colder weather is starting to creep into the
equation, which will slow everything down to a trickle…stay tuned.
Cantaloupes
Mexico is for all intents and purposed done following the finish of the domestic deal last week. This leaves only the Caribbean Basin as the source of supply, currently grown in Guatemala and Honduras. Both those areas have been afflicted recently by two hurricanes and continued unsettled weather hampering both volume, quality and self life. Sizes are running mostly jbo and reg 9s count. Demand has been quite slow as winter, minus warm weather vacations and cruises does not exactly lend itself to a craving for melons. The slow demand is being further exacerbated by COVID food service closings. So we are stuck in a situation of fair quality, somewhat high prices due to light supplies and slow demand. The market is steady with some discounting before shipping or after arrival due to quality. The current trend is for more of the same until offshore areas get past their rough beginning around the first of the year when volume and quality improve making the market more viable.
Honeydews
Unlike cantaloupes there are plentiful supplies of good quality honeydews continuing to arrive from Mexico and prices have remained quite low as demand has been slowed by the same factors of COVID related problems and unseasonability. Offshore has been sending some dews as well and quality is variable, sizes are mostly 5 and 6s and prices are higher due to the very light volume. Little looks to change until around the end of the Month.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower and Broccoli   Retreating prices have been stalled by improving demand as Markets have begun to surge higher again on improving demand for Christmas and New Years. We anticipate supplies to be short of demand through the New Year .
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Availability and pricing appear to be mostly steady with demand expected to surge as local Homegrown production comes to a close.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and demand continues to spike led by the Farm to Family Program. Most growers have been reaching for supplies . Continue to plan ahead even further to get partial coverage.
Potato and Onions  Markets continue to be strong as well as demand for retail packs. Northwest production continues to be limited to shortage.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Demand for romaine continues to keep prices elevated . Temperatures will directly impact supplies for the next month as traditionally we are entering the coldest time of the year in the desert.
Green and Red leaf  quality look much improved and should offer a significantly better value as we settle into the desert season .
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit Demand continues to be strong throughout the Citrus category due to retail sales. Mexico’s lemon crop will begin to slow while supplies from California /Winter crop will begin to improve. Pricing remains competitive. Many shippers have shifted production exclusively to bags on All Citrus. Lime quality remains inconsistent. The Navel crop profile remains perfect for retail demand . Flavor and sizing profile will improve weekly, Mandarins have begun with limited production with excellent flavor and sizing profile. Now is the time to get in your orders for the Holiday’s
OG Peppers
California / Mexico :  Improved supplies of Green Bells are expected from Mexico while Red and Yellow Bells continue to be very limited.

12/2/20

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Conventional Items
Lettuce
The market continues to adjust for lack of demand. Quality is improving daily as is supply. Prices are approaching sustainable levels which should help spur back demand that has been affected by seasonal post Thanksgiving lull and the uncertainty of CV-19 restrictions nationwide. Temperatures remain seasonally mild with only isolated frost forecast which will help continue to keep quality improving. Supplies should remain sufficient until the weather cools significantly which traditionally happens the week of Christmas.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine  Although good, a Lull in demand for Carton and Hearts combined with good weather and improving supplies has pushed prices lower. Most shippers are holding back from quoting significantly lower prices but are listening to offers . The market is correcting although reduced acres will help keep the decline from being too steep. Quality should improve daily until the seasonal, critically cold temperatures arrive later this month.
Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  prices have eased to more sustainable levels as quality improves from the desert.
Celery
We will have a little lull in the market until the Christmas pull starts in about 2 weeks. There is good availability on all sizes and shippers are making deals to keep these moving. You can load out of Santa Maria, Oxnard and Yuma.  Quality is good with nice green color and heavy weights coming out of both growing regions.
Artichokes
Production of the thornless varieties from Northern California sustained moderate frost damage a couple weeks ago as overnight temperatures dropped significantly below frost levels . Availability of  “clean ” artichokes will be extremely limited until we transition to new production areas later next month.  Heirloom and Original varieties will return in the Spring.
Broccoli
The historically slow week after Thanksgiving is upon us. Demand has waned and there is plenty of product available. We have steady supplies of our Shui Ling Crowns loading in Pharr ,Tx quality has been outstanding. Get with your Produce West sales representative and run your offers by us.
Cauliflower
Ample availability is expected over the next 10 days. Quality out of all growing regions is very nice, good white color and dark green jackets. Run your offers by us.
Brussels Sprouts
Coastal California supplies continue to be strong with a mix of quality and sizing. Pricing remains elevated in the desert due to mostly transferred product from Northern California production areas. There has been a lull in demand post Thanksgiving that has offered value buys but traditionally strong December demand will likely continue to keep prices elevated .
Green Onions
Mexico production continues steady with quality and yields showing improvement. Pricing remains mostly steady but is expected to move higher heading into December which traditionally encounters colder temperatures and seasonal labor shortages especially towards the end of the month.
Strawberries
Volume is on the decline out of Northern California.  Oxnard and Central Mexico are increasing volumes and markets are weaker in all growing areas. Santa Maria, California is forecast on Wednesday to be sunny, with partly sunny skies Thursday and Friday, and then sunny for the weekend. Highs are forecast in the low 70s and lows in the 30s. Central Mexico is forecast for partly sunny skies, with highs in the 80s and lows in the 40s. Santa Maria, California fruit has some occasional bruising, white shoulders, soft shoulders, scarring and bronzing from wind, occasional pin rot, and misshapen. Average counts are 26 to 28, occasionally higher and lower.
Raspberries
Production is coming on in Central Mexico! Steady volumes in Baja.
Blueberries
Imports continue to come in with very good volume on the East Coast. Mexico is ramping up as well. Expect good supply across all regions through December. We will see the transition from Argentina to Chile within 3 weeks; Peru will bridge the change-over between the other countries.
Blackberries
Mexican production on both organic and conventional is falling off as we are past the fall peak. Production will stay lower until late January when the large ramp-up will last into early March before trickling down until the end of the season in June.
Stone Fruit
A small amount of utility red plums are still available in small amounts. There is little to no availability this week on most stone fruit varieties, as we are currently in a production gap. Offshore fruit is expected to start arriving the end of next week. We will start off with strong markets on most varieties, continuing through the new year.
Grapes
Storage red grapes are in good supply. We are starting to see quality decline as we dig into storage supplies. California growers are finished with harvest for the year. Green seedless grapes are available in storage, although volumes are much tighter and quality is expected to decline rapidly on greens, . We still expect a ‘demand exceeds’ scenario in December on greens, and tight supplies will continue through the new year. Black seedless grapes are available in light numbers and quality is still holding up for now. Peruvian grapes are expected to start arriving this weekend in light supplies, increasing in the coming weeks.
Citrus
Oranges – California navel production i in full swing. Color is improving daily and overall quality has been very nice. Volumes are peaking on the 88 and 113 count fruit and shippers are looking to move product. Pricing is expected to remain steady for the next week, and should experience an uptick as Christmas demand ramps up.
Lemons – Chilean lemons are still available as the season comes to a close. District 1 has started, further adding to the supply exceeds demand scenario we are currently in. As more restaurants are ordered to close, we will see further stagnation of these markets. We do not expect strong markets through the new year as restaurants and bars continue to close.
Limes – Plenty of volume available this week on most sizes. Mexico has experienced good growing conditions over the past few weeks and quality has been very nice. Shippers are looking to move inventories, especially on 175 and 200 count fruit, so run offers by us on limes.
Dry Onions
Now that a lot of restaurants are being shut down again, business will start to stumble…couple that with the lack of large family Thanksgiving dinners and little or no travelling throughout the holiday, we are in for a slight lull in over business. Will it drive a stake through the heart of the accumulated strides made over the last few months? We’ll see, but, I for one am more afraid of this surge than the first one. Hopefully we’ll be able to contain it till the Calvary (vaccine) comes to our rescue. Prices are steady as of this writing.
Asparagus
The demand for asparagus is not high. Just as I said in the Dry onion report,
there isn’t going to be a lot of big dinners, but people have to eat. The pricing
from Mexico has tried to go up a bit due to lower supplies, however Peru seems to having good volume and plenty of product available at cheap pricing. Stay tuned.
Cantaloupes
As predicted domestic cantaloupes have ended and there is few coming from Guatemala as the recent hurricanes have delayed a full throated output. Mexico was pretty much alone this week so the market there improved but only a bit on better quality of the prime sizes (, jbo9 and 120, as winter ins not a bit month for home melon consumption we all know how the food service sector struggling under the COVID restrictions. Next week Mexico will continue to ship as weather there has been conducive to robust production. Sizing should be stable. Quality will be wide ranging with ample amounts of good fruit. Guatemalan imports should increase first in FLA POEs the East Coast, Texas and CAS POEs. Sizes there are primarily 9 and 12. We look for a steady to lower market next week,
Honeydews
Once again are following a similar supply narrative though lagging off shore behind cantaloupes by a week or so. Mexico is still going and market is steady. Overall demand is slow leaving a prodigious supply of all sizes. Guatemala will be adding their suppliers to the pile next week keeping the prices steady to lower with discounts readily available
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower and Broccoli   .Improving supplies have caught up with good demand and prices have begun to ease. Now that more of the product is being grown in the desert as opposed to being transferred Quality should show improvement. We anticipate markets to settle at more sustainable levels before December Holiday demand potentially pushes prices higher .
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Availability and pricing appear to be mostly steady with demand expected to surge as local Homegrown production comes to a close.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and demand continues to spike led by the Farm to Family Program. Most growers have been reaching for supplies . Continue to plan ahead even further to get partial coverage.
Potato and Onions  Markets continue to be strong as well as demand for retail packs. Northwest production continues to be limited to shortage.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Demand for romaine continues to be strong especially hearts although demand has slowed this week prices remain elevated . Improved quality is expected to directly impact supplies from the warmer Southwest desert production areas.
Green and Red leaf  quality look much improved and should offer a significantly better value as we settle into the desert season .
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit Demand continues to be strong throughout the Citrus category due to retail sales. Mexico’s lemon crop will begin to slow while supplies from California /Winter crop with begin to improve. Pricing remains competitive. Many shippers have shifted production exclusively to bags on All Citrus. Lime quality remains inconsistent. The Navel crop profile remains perfect for retail demand . Flavor and sizing profile will improve weekly, Mandarins have begun with limited production with excellent flavor and sizing profile. Now is the time to get in your orders for the Holiday’s
OG Peppers
California / Mexico :  Improved supplies of Green Bells is expected from Mexico while Red and Yellow Bells continue to be very limited awaiting start up in Mexico . We anticipate improved production in coming weeks.

11/25/20

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Conventional Items
Lettuce
The market is currently adjusting mostly due to light demand as a result of high prices and the uncertainty of CV-19 restrictions nationwide. Additionally a few shippers are offering steep discounts to clean up older production areas. Supplies from the Southwest Desert areas are still being affected by soil-borne disease but temperatures are forecast to remain ideal with minimal frost which should help improve quality, yields and supply.  We still expect some Volatility as we enter December where temperatures will dictate supply.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine Demand for Carton and Hearts has temporarily eased this week with the Thanksgiving Holiday but is anticipated to remain strong as growers continue to have reduced acres to account for CV-19 and the other unnamed pathogens. Prices are likely to ease slightly but remain elevated. We anticipate improved quality heading into December but seasonally Cold temperatures could impact supplies later next month. Volatility will likely remain as we continue to deal with the uncertainty of demand.
Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  prices remain mostly steady with. Improved quality evident from the desert. Quality is expected to improve weekly and pricing should ease to more sustainable levels as production ramps up
Celery
We will have a little lull in the market until the Christmas pull starts in about 2 weeks. There is good availability on all sizes and shippers are making deals to keep these moving. You can load out of Santa Maria,Oxnard and Yuma.  Quality is good with nice green color and heavy weights coming out of both growing regions.
Artichokes
Production of the thornless varieties from Northern California sustained moderate frost damage a couple weeks ago as overnight temperatures dropped significantly below frost levels . Availability of  “clean ” artichokes will be extremely limited until we transition to new production areas later next month.  Heirloom and Original varieties will return in the Spring.
Broccoli
Production has started to pick up in the desert growing regions and Mexico. Markets are in a downward correction as the higher prices over the last two weeks have slowed demand. Cooler temperatures are expected in both the Santa Maria and desert growing regions next week so this could slow production and settle the price correction in the low to mid teens. We will have steady supplies of our Shui Ling Crowns loading in Pharr ,Tx over the next two weeks. Get with your Produce West sales representative for the latest information.
Cauliflower
Ample availability is expected over the next 10 days. Markets will continue to decline going into next week as we head into one of the slower weeks of the year, post Thanksgiving. Quality out of all growing regions is very nice, good white color and dark green jackets. Run your offers by us.
Brussels Sprouts
Coastal California supplies continue to be strong with a mix of quality and sizing. Prices have firmed with strong Thanksgiving Holiday demand. There will be a lull in demand post Thanksgiving that will offer potential value buys but traditionally strong December demand will likely continue to keep prices elevated .
Green Onions
Mexico production continues steady with quality and yields showing improvement. Pricing remains mostly steady but is expected to move higher heading into December which traditionally encounters colder temperatures and seasonal labor shortages especially towards the end of the month.
Strawberries
As Northern California winds down, Oxnard and Central Mexico supplies are increasing. For Thanksgiving week, markets are weaker in all growing areas. Santa Maria, California is forecast on Wednesday to be partly sunny with sunny skies for the balance of the week. Highs are forecast in the 60s, increasing to the 70s for the weekend; lows are forecast in the 40s on Wednesday, decreasing to the 30s for the balance of the week. Central Mexico is forecast for sunny skies on Wednesday and Thursday, mostly sunny on Friday, Saturday mainly cloudy, and Sunday sunny skies. Highs are forecast in the 80s and lows in the 50s. Santa Maria, California fruit has some occasional bruising, white shoulders, soft shoulders, water damage, overripe, and misshapen. Average counts are 26 to 28, occasionally higher and lower.
Raspberries
Production is coming on in Central Mexico! Steady volumes in Baja.
Blueberries
Imports continue to come in with very good volume on the East Coast. Mexico is ramping up as well. Expect good supply across all regions now through December.
Blackberries
Mexican production on both organic and conventional is falling off as we are past the fall peak. Production will stay lower until late January when the large ramp-up will last into early March before trickling down until the end of the season in June.
Stone Fruit
Utility red plums are still available in small amounts. There is little to no availability this week on most stone fruit varieties, as we are currently in a production gap. Offshore fruit is expected to start arriving in 2 weeks. We will start off with strong markets in early December, continuing through the new year.
Grapes
California growers are finished with harvest for the year. Storage red grapes are in good supply. Quality is still ok , although condition will inevitably decline in the coming weeks. Green seedless grapes are available in storage, although volumes are much tighter and quality will decline faster in storage. We expect a ‘demand exceeds’ scenario in December on greens, and tight supplies will continue through the new year. Black seedless grapes are available, although supplies are declining rapidly. Peruvian grapes are expected to start arriving next week in light supplies.
Citrus
Oranges – More California navels are entering the pipeline. Color is improving daily and overall quality has been very nice. Volumes are peaking on the 88 and 113 count fruit and shippers are looking to move product. Pricing is expected to remain steady post Thanksgiving.
Lemons – Plenty of deals on small sized Chilean lemons as that season comes to a close. District 1 is starting, further adding to the supply exceeds demand scenario we are currently in. As more restaurants are ordered to close, we will see further stagnation of these markets. Quality has been strong overall. Run offers by us, as shippers continue looking to move product.
Limes – Plenty of volume available this week on most sizes. Mexico has experienced good growing conditions over the past few weeks and quality has been very nice. Shippers are looking to move inventories, especially on 175 and 200 count fruit, so run offers by us on limes.
Dry Onions
There are a lot of long faces around Chicago, Detroit, New York etc. as the local and state governments impose curfews and are barring indoor dining. The CDC keeps reporting incredible spikes in Covid infections as hospitals continue to fill up. If and when the vaccines start to leak into our economy so will business begin to leak back. This is starting to feel like a Pregnancy…little by little the vaccine will expand until finally there will be a birth of screaming active food service infant. There will be fits and starts, but we will see it crawling then wobbly walking and finally running and bringing bubbly life back to our business. The Onion markets are plodding along and using whatever transportation is available to move product.
They could move a lot more product if there were more trucks. This writer paid $1.69 per pound on jumbo yellow onions yesterday. That’s an $84.50 return on a 50# bag. Please note this was in Woodland CA outside of Sacramento where freight is cheaper than going east. Glad to see someone is getting rich on onions. Retail continues to thrive.
Asparagus
Demand is starting to show up as pricing drops. I’m sure there will be some
real interesting promotions coming in the next few weeks including Christmas
ads. The market will continue to be in the teens until around the 10th and 12th of December. The Peruvian gush will add up to about 140 containers a week
through mid to late December. That’s about 440,000 cartons per week. Couple
that with what’s shipping from Mexico and we have more than we’ve ever had
this time of year without restaurants there to support the supply.
Cantaloupes
Market is in a bit of a twilight zone right now with many unknowns. Domestic has only a few desert loads left mostly 12s with some 9s. Mexico is continuing to produce with a wide range of quality and prices and run of sizes. Prices are much higher on jbo 9s and reg 9s than others from there. Offshore has had a few arrive this week, mostly in South Florida and shipped between after the first hurricanes in Guatemala. Sizes peaking on 9s with some other sizes. Quality is okay. Net week domestic will be done. Mexico should continue to be steady in both supply and size. Offshore will have virtually nothing arriving until the next weekend at the earliest as a second hurricane had delayed shipments from there. Guatemalan quality is the wild card here as we need to see how they arrive after all the rain they had. Demand should be very dull. No promotions. No cruises. Few restaurants and resorts and not many retail purchased during the winter. COVID is rampant still and stilting demand. Look for little change most of next week.
Honeydews
As has been the case most of the fall the narrative on honeydews mirrors cantaloupes. Domestic is finishing. Mexico is shipping mostly 5,6 and jbo 5s but also some 8s with a wide range of quality and prices. Off shores just beginning with 5 and 6 count and mostly good quality but that new arrives could show problems from the rains there. Demand will be struggling with the same issues that are facing the cantaloupes. We look for a dull and mostly steady market next week.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower and Broccoli   . Strong demand and light supplies due to Cold weather pushed pricing higher . Demand is expected to ease off the Holiday rush and supplies should slowly improve as transition to the warmer desert climate begins next week . We anticipate markets to settle at more sustainable levels before December Holiday demand potentially pushes prices higher .
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Availability and pricing appear to be mostly steady with demand expected to surge as local Homegrown production comes to a close.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and demand continues to spike led by the Farm to Family Program. Most growers have been reaching for supplies . Continue to plan ahead even further to get partial coverage.
Potato and Onions  Markets continue to be strong as well as demand for retail packs. Northwest production continues to be limited to shortage.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Demand for romaine continues to be strong especially hearts although demand has slowed this week prices remain elevated . Improved quality is expected to directly impact supplies from the warmer Southwest desert production areas.  Green and Redleaf  quality look much improved and should offer a significantly better value as we settle into the desert season . Expect volatility to continue especially with romaine as we deal with the uncertainty of demand.
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit Demand continues to be strong throughout the Citrus category due to retail sales. Mexico’s lemon crop is peaking with mostly Fancy supplies as well as the California /Winter crop with limited production. Pricing remains competitive. Many shippers have shifted production exclusively to bags on All Citrus. Lime quality remains inconsistent. The Navel crop profile remains perfect for retail demand . Flavor and sizing profile will improve weekly, Mandarins have begun with limited production with excellent flavor and sizing profile. Now is the time to get in your orders for the Holiday’s
OG Peppers
California / Mexico :  Improved supplies of Green Bells is expected from Mexico while Red and Yellow Bells continue to be very limited awaiting start up in Mexico . We anticipate improved production in a couple weeks.

11/5/20

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Conventional Items
Lettuce
As we enter Transition we continue to have uncertainty in supplies, quality and results. This has led to markets to react higher although demand remains moderate. Cooler weather is expected statewide next week which will keep supplies limited so It may take a week or two but things are expected to settle with eventual improved production. Yuma, Huron, Salinas and Santa Maria are all in play this week with wide varying availability and quality. Continue to remain flexible with transportation to take advantage of all possible opportunities. . Quality in Huron remains the best followed by Santa Maria with Yuma currently unaccounted. Volatility is expected to remain through mid November.  Las Cruces, New Mexico continues to offer very nice quality daily. Ask your Produce West rep for updates on transportation as well.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine Demand for Carton and Hearts remain strong with supplies spread unevenly throughout the industry resulting in some tiered pricing. Transition to Southern California and Arizona desert production areas has begun. Wide variations in quality and availability remain. Continue to be flexible to take advantage of the best deals. We expect quality issues and escalated but flexible prices to continue well into November.
Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  prices have eased somewhat as improved quality leads to better production along with transition to new production areas. Quality is expected to improve weekly and pricing should ease to more sustainable levels.
Celery
As expected demand is starting to pick up, there is availability out of Santa Maria, Salinas and now Oxnard. Prices will continue to escalate next week as will demand.  Everything looks pretty good with nice green color and good weights coming out of both growing regions.
Artichokes
Production of the thornless varieties continue to be steady. Availability is expected to improve as we get further into new production areas Heirloom and Original varieties will return in the Spring after a small production window comes to a close .
Broccoli
Due to cooler nighttime temperatures and shorter days along with the gradual decrease in production as the Salinas season begins to wind down we are starting to see lighter supplies out of California. Also the East Coast and Canadian local deals are coming to an end and most of those customers are telling us that they will start to pull from the West Coast next week.  We have started our Shui Ling crown program out of Central Mexico. We are loading in Pharr ,Tx and quality has been good. Expectations are for prices to climb higher out of all production areas. Get with your Produce West salesperson for the latest information.
Cauliflower
Much like broccoli the market has started to take off. Cooler temperatures and lighter volume out of Salinas and Santa Maria as the season winds down is the main cause. Expect markets to stay active into next week.
Brussels Sprouts
Coastal California supplies continue to be strong with a mix of quality and sizing as pricing remains competitive. Supplies continue to outpace demand although that is likely to change buoyed by Thanksgiving demand. Insect pressure should subside as Fall weather begins to settle in this weekend
Green Onions
Mexico production continues steady with their Fall crop with quality and yields showing improvement. Pricing remains mostly steady at slightly elevated rates.
Strawberries
Limited volume will continue into next week, especially on organics.  The California harvests and markets will continue to show strength into next week. Windy conditions and colder temperatures will come to northern California this weekend. Oxnard and Central Mexico are beginning with light volume. Santa Maria, California is forecast for sunny skies, becoming partly cloudy Friday through the weekend. Highs are forecast in the 80s, decreasing to the 60s on Friday through the weekend, and lows in the 50s decreasing to the 40s on Friday and the 30s for the weekend. Central Mexico is forecast for mostly sunny skies, with highs in the 80s and lows in the 40s. Santa Maria, California fruit has some occasional bruising, white shoulders, soft shoulders, water damage, decay under the calyx, pin rot, and misshapen. Average counts are 26 to 28, occasionally higher and lower.
Raspberries
Production is increasing as supplies out of Central Mexico increase. Steady volumes in Baja.
Blueberries
Imports continue to come in with good volume on the East Coast. Peruvian volume has increased and will continue to ramp up through the year end. Mexico is ramping up volume as well. Expect good supplies across all regions now through December.
Blackberries
Mexican production on both organic and conventional is expected to ramp up, but will stabilize as the weather cools.
Stone Fruit
Late season red plum production will continue through November. Demand is very strong and markets will continue to strengthen. Quality remains strong and product is holding up nicely. Black plums are finished for the season. Pluots are now completely finished for the season. We are still about a month out from the first arrivals of offshore stone fruit.
Grapes
Late season crop has been picked and much of the supply is now going into storage. Good supplies and availability is expected on red, green and black grapes. Red seedless will be the most plentiful, while green and black grapes will be in short supply for remainder of the month. This year’s supplies are expected to be significantly less than 2019 totals, although overall demand is down due to ongoing covid restrictions. Imports will begin arriving in early December and increase from that point on. We should continue to see steady markets for the month of November on red, green and black grapes.
Citrus
Oranges – Strong pricing continues this week, although markets are beginning to settle as more navels become available. Sizing is currently peaking on 88ct and 113ct. We expect pricing to decrease as more navels become available in California. There are still some valencias available in larger sizing, but quality is becoming an issue as the season comes to a close.
Lemons – Heavy supplies continue this week. There are deals available as shippers attempt to rotate inventories. Chilean lemons are finishing up as district 1 is starting. District 3 is still in production and sizing is heavier on the mid sizes. Quality is good overall.
Limes – Good supplies this week, especially on small fruit. Weather was been good in growing regions and more fruit will come on as a result. Quality is very nice overall, although some overripe fruit has been reported. Shippers are looking to move small sizes and listening to offers. Rain is in the forecast for next week in Mexico growing regions, which could slow production and tighten supplies.
Dry Onions
Most Onion shippers this week are a little slower than last week, with pricing holding steady. The Washington deal seems a little more active that the Treasure Valley location. This might have to do with the West Coast demand on the rise a bit. The East hasn’t started their Thanksgiving pull yet, but it’s just
around the corner. Freight is outrageous and will continue to be with the Washington apple deal in full swing competing for refrigerated transportation.
Asparagus
Mexico has a gush of product coming and the chains are starting to take
advantage of the lower prices. Standard and small asparagus is very plentiful
with a slight premium on the large and jumbo. Peru continues to have better
boat service and has cut a few days from the voyage to Miami. Mexican prices
are as low as $15 on standard and small, as low as $9-10. These prices will
quickly clean any back log and the market will snap back for the Thanksgiving
pull starting the week of the 16th .
Cantaloupes
All fruit is now coming from the CA/AZ desert or Nogales. Little has changed in the way of trends. Domestic fruit continued to mostly 12s and smaller and retail demand continued to focus on 9s and larger which remained tight. Spot market demand was very quiet. Nogales ran better sizing but there was a wide range in quality with some old fruit which sat in warehouses either in Mexico or Nogales and was only fair quality at best. Demand was quite slow on due to the stigmatic legacy of old recalls. Mexico production was also quite high causing deep discounts and low prices on that fruit, keeping all prices in check. Larger domestic fruit was strong with much higher priced than smaller sizes. Next week domestic production should still be mostly small and a bit less as weather is due to be much cooler in the desert. Nogales will still have good production. Demand may improve a bit due to the holiday but with Thanksgiving being autumn focused the effect should be minimal. We look for little change next week, except for perhaps a small improvement in domestic prices due to lighter supplies
Honeydews
Domestic production remained steady peaking on regular 5s and 6s with some 8s and few jumbos. Nogales has a run of sizes and skewed toward the larger sizes. Quality of domestic fruit was good. Mexico production was abundant and warehouses on both sides of the border were stuffed, leading to less fresh product being deeply discounted. A few better quality fresh product was available at higher prices. Demand was dull. Next week cooler temps could diminish supplies a bit. Demand will remain dull as consumers look to more autumnal products. Perhaps Mexico will cut exports due to the poor market. We look for a steady and dull market next week, with a chance of the bottom prices rising if that occurs.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower and Broccoli   . More seasonal weather has allowed quality to improve.  Markets remain mostly steady with demand expected to improve weekly. Cauliflower production remains mostly steady with improving demand. Prices have been gradually escalating as demand peaks for Thanksgiving Holiday.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Availability and pricing appear to be mostly steady with demand expected to surge as local Homegrown production comes to a close.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and demand continues to spike led by the Farm to Family Program. Most growers have been reaching for supplies and will likely begin to gap as they transition to Southern California growing areas. Continue to plan ahead even further to get partial coverage.
Potato and Onions  Markets continue to be strong as well as demand for retail packs. Northwest production continues to be limited.  We expect shortages and elevated prices through the Fall
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Demand for romaine continues to be strong especially hearts with continued light supplies. Due to reduced acres, increased insect pressure and diminished quality Cooler overnight temperatures will significantly improve quality in coming weeks although keeping supplies in check. Green and Red quality has been marginal with production lighter and demand improving weekly. We look forward to transitioning to Southern desert production areas in a couple weeks for improved quality and supplies.
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit Demand continues to be strong throughout the Citrus category due to retail sales. Mexico’s lemon crop is peaking with mostly Fancy supplies and the California Fall/Winter crop has started with limited production. Pricing remains competitive. Many shippers have shifted production exclusively to bags on All Citrus. Lime quality remains inconsistent but has shown signs of improvement. The Navel crop is just beginning as Valencias wind down with similar sizing profile expected. Mandarins have also just begun limited production with expected excellent flavor and sizing profile. Now is the time to get in your orders for the Holiday’s
OG Grapes
California:   Central Valley production has another week or two left before quality and size declines. Reds continue to offer the best value while Green grape production will likely finish much sooner .

10/30/20

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Conventional Items
Lettuce
Transition is about to hit full swing with Yuma expected to start up this weekend for a couple shippers while Huron, Salinas and Santa Maria wind down. A few  shippers will be overlapping production areas while others are gapping resulting in tiered quality , availability and price. If your transportation is flexible you’re able to get the right product at the right price. Demand remains steady but better at reduced prices. Cool overnight temperatures with Chamber days have helped growers stretch out their acreages to ensure limited production gaps. Quality in Huron remains the best although there are some potholes to avoid as well. We anticipate quality to improve daily from new production areas while Salinas and to a lesser extent Santa Maria will continue to vary with Tip burn, decay and insect pressure. Markets should ease as volume increases from multiple production areas although Volatility is expected to remain through mid November.  Las Cruces, New Mexico continues to offer very nice quality daily. Ask your Produce West rep for updates on transportation as well.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine  While Demand for Carton and Hearts remain strong , supplies although scattered have improved slightly and pricing continues to slowly ease. Fringe, tip burn, high core, twist, insect pressure and discoloration remain widespread although cooler overnight temps have helped growers stretch current supplies until transition to the desert commences over the next couple weeks. Some shippers will start as early as Monday while others will transition as late as Mid November. Wide variations in quality and availability will lead to a widening price gap. Continue to be flexible to take advantage of the best deals. We expect quality issues and escalated but flexible prices to continue well into November.
Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  prices have eased somewhat as improved quality leads to better production along with transition to new production areas. Quality is expected to improve weekly and pricing should ease to more sustainable levels.
Celery
Currently there is good availability out of both Santa Maria and Salinas. We will start to see an increase in prices as we get closer to the Thanksgiving pull. Expect an increase in pricing starting next week.  Everything looks pretty good with nice green color and good weights coming out of both growing regions.
Artichokes
Production of the thornless varieties continue to be steady. with Improved sizing. Availability is expected to improve now that the weather has started to cool .Heirloom and Original varieties will return in the spring after a small production window comes to a close .
Broccoli
Due to cooler nighttime temperatures and shorter days along with the gradual decrease in production as the Salinas season begins to wind down we are starting to see a slight price increase. Also the East Coast and Canadian local deals are coming to an end and most of those customers are telling us that they will start to pull from the West Coast next week. Watch for a little more active market as we head into November. We have now started our Shui Ling crown program out of Central Mexico. We are loading in Pharr ,Tx and quality has been nice as we start out our season. Get with your Produce West salesperson for the latest information.
Cauliflower
Prices are at rock bottom and shippers are looking for business.  There is word on the street that we will see lighter volume next week but currently the ball is in your hand, let us know what it will take to get an order.
Brussels Sprouts
Coastal California supplies continue to improve with a mix of quality and sizing as pricing remains competitive. Demand is improving although Supplies are still outpacing demand . Insect pressure should subside as Fall weather begins to settle in .
Green Onions
Mexico production continues steady with their Fall crop with quality and yields showing improvement. Pricing remains mostly steady at slightly elevated rates.
Strawberries
Supplies are limited. Colder weather this week has limited California harvest. As Northern California winds down, Oxnard and Central Mexico are beginning with light volume. Santa Maria, California is forecast for sunny skies Wednesday and Thursday, becoming mostly cloudy Friday through the weekend. Highs are forecast in the 70s with lows in the 40s, increasing to the low-50s for the weekend. Salinas/Watsonville, California is forecast for mostly sunny skies on Wednesday, becoming partly cloudy for the balance of the week. Highs are forecast in the 70s, decreasing to the 60s on Friday, and then increasing to the 70s for the weekend with lows in the 40s. Central Mexico is forecast for partly cloudy skies. Highs are expected in the 80s with lows in the 50s. Santa Maria, California fruit has some occasional bruising, white shoulders, soft shoulders, water damage, decay under the calyx, pin rot and misshapen. Average counts are 26 to 28, occasionally higher and lower.
Raspberries
Warmer than expected weather has produced a spike in production. Production is coming on in Central Mexico! Steady volumes out of Baja.
Blueberries
Peruvian imports continue to come in with good volume and will continue to ramp up until years end. The Mexico season is ramping up at a fast pace.  Expect good supplies across all regions by late October through November. The pacific Northwest is finished for the season.
Blackberries
Supply projections have increased for the balance of the year. The quality of the Mexican production on both organic and conventional has been excellent.
Stone Fruit
Nectarines and peaches are unavailable until the offshore season starts. Late season red plums will continue to be available through November. Demand has picked up and we are seeing stronger markets this week as a result. Quality is strong and sugar levels are adequate. Black plums are finished for the season. Pluots are expected to be available for another two weeks. Be sure to order early as demand picks up.
Grapes
Harvests are starting to wind down on red, green and black seedless grapes. We expect sufficient volumes for the next two weeks, followed by gradual decreases in supplies. Red grape volumes should carry us into the month of December with minimal volume gaps until late December when Peruvian grapes arrive on the west coast. Green grapes are still being harvested, and good volumes are expected for the next two weeks, followed by lighter supply. Green grape volume will be lighter than reds during the month of December. Black grapes are still available, but volumes should taper off towards the middle of November.
Citrus
Oranges – Strong demand continues this week on California valencias, particularly on smaller sizes. Quality is beginning to suffer as we get later in the season. Navels have started in California, although color has been an issue, with much much of the product showing up yellow in every box and low sugars have been reported. Pricing remains high and should remain strong for the coming weeks.
Lemons – Supplies continue to be plentiful and shippers are still looking to move as much product as possible. Demand is extremely low as food service business continues to be hit hard by covid shutdowns. Quality is very nice and plenty of volume available on all sizes.
Limes – Plenty of small fruit available in Texas this week. Quality is very nice overall and shippers are looking to move fruit. Weather in Mexico has been mostly favorable and we expect improving quality and plenty of volume for the coming weeks. Run offers by us on limes.
Dry Onions
It looks like there is going to be a stutter step in the onion market coming soon. As the “second wave” starts to take it’s toll on the Midwest and south, there is bound to be some closures taking place. The fine line of balancing your storage is being crunched now by onions shippers. Most shippers report they
are ahead of last year on total volume…but hope spring eternal and here comes Thanksgiving…will families be able to get together?
Asaparagus
Little by little we are seeing supplies increase and markets decreasing in price.
Peru is getting in the groove with shipments increasing by ship (air is till hard
to come by). We are hearing pricing of $26-$28.00 from Mexico and $22-$24 as lids for the Thanksgiving pull. There is always the danger of cold snaps in
Mexico that could really impair the production…after all Mother Nature is in
charge of just about everything.
Cantaloupes
Supplies of cantaloupes is ample but not overwhelming. The Westside is for all in intents and purposes done. Arizona is running small sizes, mostly 12s and 15s with few if any jbo packs. Nogales is running larger sizes. Quality and condition for the most part is okay. Little looks to be changing these patterns next week. However the cooler weather in the desert this week could have domestic sizing skewing a bit larger next week. Demand has been very slow. Retail is focused on fall fruit especially with Thanksgiving just ahead, and traditionally the week before the holiday shipping begins demand is slow. Thus prices languished and were being deeply discounted on 12s and 15s. Nogales, has good production and light demand leading to them discounting on larger sizes. Next week little should change other than perhaps larger sizing on domestic fruit. Demand will stay slow as it will be focused on fall fruit products. We look for a steady to slightly lower market on larger sizes and steady but more stable pricing on smaller sizes next week.
Honeydews
Much like cantaloupes, demand has been very slow on dews as the weather cools around the country and consumers are more interested in fall and winter fruits. Domestic supplies have been moderate and peaking on 5s and 6s. Nogales supplies have been abundant and skewing quite large. Next week demand should be no better as melons are not Thanksgiving centric. Supplies should be steady and the market should remain dull.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower and Broccoli   . More seasonal weather has allowed quality to improve.  Markets remain mostly steady with demand expected to improve weekly. Cauliflower production remains mostly steady with improving demand. Prices have been gradually escalating as demand increases weekly.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Availability and pricing appear to be mostly steady with demand expected to surge as local Homegrown production comes to a close.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and demand continues to spike led by the Farm to Family Program. Most growers have been reaching for supplies and will likely begin to gap as they transition to Southern California growing areas. Continue to plan ahead even further to get partial coverage.
Potato and Onions  Markets continue to be strong as well as demand for retail packs. Northwest production continues to be limited.  We expect shortages and elevated prices through the Fall.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Demand for romaine continues to be strong especially hearts with continued light supplies due to reduced acres, increased insect pressure and diminished quality Cooler overnight temperatures will significantly improve quality in coming weeks although keeping supplies in check. Green and Red quality has been marginal with production lighter and demand improving weekly. We look forward to transitioning to Southern desert production areas in a couple weeks for improved quality and supplies.
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit Demand continues to be strong throughout the Citrus category due to retail sales. Mexico’s lemon crop is peaking with mostly Fancy supplies and the California Fall/Winter crop has started with limited production. Pricing remains competitive. Many shippers have shifted production exclusively to bags on All Citrus. Lime quality remains inconsistent but has shown signs of improvement. The Navel crop is just beginning as Valencias wind down with similar sizing profile expected. Mandarins have also just begun limited production with expected excellent flavor and sizing profile. Now is the time to get in your orders for the Holiday’s
OG Grapes
California:   Central Valley production has another week or two left before quality and size declines. Reds continue to offer the best value while Green grape production will likely finish much sooner .
OG Melons
California:   Cantaloupes, Honeydew, have one last surge in Northern California while Watermelons have started strong in Southern California and Mexico loading in Nogales .

10/14/20

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Conventional Items
Lettuce
The rollercoaster ride continues with supplies fluctuating as a result of recent and continuing heat events along the coast. Tip burn, insect pressure and yield reducing disease (see image) are widespread throughout the valley leading to variations in Quality and uncertainty of supplies. Transition to production areas in California’s Central Valley will begin next week before settling in the Southern deserts of California and Arizona should help with anticipated improved quality . Although demand remains moderate , markets started strong this week with processors purchasing acreage to shore up their supplies. Volatility is expected to continue through transition into early November. Las Cruces, New Mexico has begun harvest this week with very nice quality. Ask your Produce West rep for updates on transportation as well.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine  Similar issues to iceberg are impacting Romaine although Demand for Carton and Heart Romaine continues to exceed existing supplies. Additionally Romaine does not transition to the Central Valley but instead jumps directly to the Desert which is not supposed to start until mid November . This will keep supplies limited as most growers battle quality issues as a result of hot temperatures. Fringe and tip burn, increased high core, twist and insect pressure are causing discoloration, disease and rib decay.  Most of the defects have been able to be trimmed in the field but many are showing up on arrival although the biggest impact has been reduced yields. Expect quality issues and escalated prices to continue well into November.
Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  plantings were negatively impacted by the heat and have shown signs of tip burn and wilt. Prices have escalated , especially Green leaf as Eastern production areas come to a close in coming weeks.
Celery
Currently there is good availability out of both Santa Maria and Salinas. Prices are slightly lower out of Santa Maria.  Everything looks pretty good with nice green color and good weights coming out of both growing regions. We expect markets to remain at current trading levels for next week.
Artichokes
Production of the thornless varieties has been hampered by successive high temperature events resulting in reduced quality. . We should see improved sizing and availability as the weather starts to cool including a limited amount of the Heirloom and Original varieties .
Broccoli
Prices have subsided and there is good availability out of both California as well as Mexico product crossing in the Texas Valley. A few shippers are still having minor issues with pin rot but overall most products have cleaned up and look good. We estimate to start our Shui Ling broccoli crown program shipping out of Central Mexico loading in Pharr, TX around October 26.
Cauliflower
The market has seemed to have topped out. The warm weather we are currently experiencing in the Santa Maria and Salinas Valley is pushing growth along at a little faster pace than normal for this time of year. There will be decent availability as we finish out the week. There is word on the street that we will see lighter volume next week. As typical for this time of year as we come to a close in Salinas we will most likely experience a roller coaster type of model with pricing until mid November when the Desert regions start packing.
Brussels Sprouts
Coastal California supplies continue to improve with a mix of quality and sizing as pricing remains competitive. Supplies are expected to improve as well as demand as we enter the Fall season. An Increase in insect pressure may lead to quality issues but currently quality is mostly good.
Green Onions
Mexico growers will begin their Fall crop with quality and yields expected to improve by the end of the month. Pricing remains mostly steady at slightly elevated rates.
Strawberries
Strawberries are limited, especially on organics. As Northern California winds down, Oxnard and Central Mexico are beginning light volumes. Santa Maria, California is forecast for sunny skies for most of the week, becoming mostly sunny on Sunday. Highs are forecast in the 90s Wednesday through Friday, decreasing to the 80s on Saturday and 70s on Sunday, and lows in the 50s. Salinas/Watsonville, California is forecast for sunny skies, becoming mostly sunny on Sunday. Highs are forecast in the 80s, decreasing to the 70s on Sunday, and lows in the 50s. Santa Maria, California fruit has some greener fruit with occasional bruising, white shoulders, soft shoulders, heat damage, decay under the calyx, pin rot and misshapen. Average counts are 24 to 26, occasionally higher and lower.
Raspberries
Production is coming on in Central Mexico! Steady volumes in Baja.
Blueberries
Imports continue to arrive with good volume on the East Coast. Mexico is starting to pick up in volumes as well; expect good supply across all regions by late October through November.
Blackberries
Mexican production on both organic and conventional is ramping up with very good quality!
Stone Fruit
Late season plums are still in good supply and will continue into December. Black plum production is steady but demand is increasing daily. Sizes are peaking on 40 and 50 ct fruit. We expect slightly stronger markets next week. Good production on red plums should continue through late November. Overall quality is nice on red and black plums. Get orders in early as demand picks up.
Grapes
The central valley of California volumes continue to be plentiful on red green and black varieties. We expect a few more weeks of good supply; followed by production gaps starting in mid November. Storage fruit will carry supplies from that point on. Red grape quality is very solid with good sugars. The main red varieties include Scarlet royal and Magenta. Green varieties are also very nice. Green varieties are mainly Ivory and Stella Bella. There are still some black varieties available, although volumes are becoming limited as the season comes to a close.
Citrus
Oranges – Strong demand continues on valencia oranges out of California. Small sizes remain a challenge, with more large sizes available. Import 88ct oranges are available on the east coast at competitive pricing. Quality on valencias is starting to show some issues, as late season harvest numbers decline in California. Navels are expected to start towards the end of the month, which should help alleviate supplies and settle markets.
Lemons – Heavy supplies continue this week. Product is coming out of California, Mexico and Chile. As stated in previous weeks, the lack of foodservice demand is substantially impacting the lemon market, with little relief until overall dining and school regulations are lifted nationwide. Quality is very nice with very few problems to report.
Limes – Plenty of small sized fruit available this week. Quality is very nice on small fruit. Larger sizing is showing more quality issues, as there are fewer to pick from. Overall we are still seeing good volumes crossing into Texas, though tighter supplies are expected in the coming weeks as holidays approach.
Dry Onions
Demand on onions is just steady…with small onions still in good demand and jumbo yellows rolling along with, what is now the new normal low interest demand. Everyday, however, at least in California, there are more and more restaurants being allowed to receive more diners, let’s hope this virus will be
brought under control soon. Wear your Mask!
Asaparagus
Help is on the way. Growers in Mexico, that would normally cut their fern in
November, are cutting it this week with the hopes of product ready to ship in a
few weeks. Obregon will start Monday with fern removal. With that knowledge,
we should see supply increase from Mexico with lower pricing to follow.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower and Broccoli   . More seasonal weather has allowed quality to improve although another round of high temperatures this week could reduce quality and negatively impact supplies . Markets remain mostly steady with demand expected to improve weekly. Cauliflower production remains mostly steady with improving demand. Prices have been gradually escalating as demand increases weekly. Next week’s forecast calls for much cooler temperatures which will likely again slow production and push prices higher.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Availability and pricing appear to be mostly steady with Local Homegrown production expected to continue for another week or two.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and demand continues to spike as carrots offer a great grab and go option as well as being a staple commodity in the USDA Farm to Family Food Program. Continue to plan even further ahead to get partial coverage.
Potato and Onions  Markets continue to be strong as well as demand for retail packs. Northwest production continues to be limited.  We expect shortages and elevated prices through the Fall.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Demand for romaine remains strong especially hearts with continued light supplies due to reduced acres, increased insect pressure and diminished quality . Green and Red quality has suffered more so than Romaine with production lighter and demand improving weekly.
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit Demand continues to be strong throughout the Citrus category due to retail sales. Mexico’s lemon crop is peaking with mostly Fancy supplies and the California Fall/Winter crop has started with limited production. Pricing remains elevated but mostly steady. Many shippers have shifted production exclusively to bags on All Citrus. Lime quality remains inconsistent but has shown signs of improvement. Valencia crop is winding down with sizing profile leaning toward the smaller sizes which has benefitted increased demand for bags at retail. We anticipate Navels to begin towards the end of the month.
OG Grapes
California:   Central Valley production has another week or two left before quality and size declines. Reds continue to offer the best value while Green grape production has been slightly more limited.
OG Melons
California:   Cantaloupes, Honeydew, Watermelon production has been hampered by heat and smokey skies restricting plant growth much of the past month. With only a few weeks left in the California season we should see one last wave in production before the season comes to an early close

10/8/20

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Conventional Items
Lettuce
The market has begun to level with growers continuing to battle quality issues as the Coastal season winds down. Some issues are seasonal although intensified due to the previous heat waves including tip burn, rib discoloration and bottom rot associated with soil borne disease Wide variations remain in Quality ,supply and pricing depending on individual shippers situation.The volatility will likely continue as we begin to transition production areas in coming weeks. Las Cruces , New Mexico will begin production next week to help supplement supplies. Quality coming out of the gate is expected to be very nice. Ask your Produce West rep for updates on transportation as well.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine   Demand for Carton and Heart Romaine continues to be strong mostly due to acreage cutbacks and reduced yields due to heat related stress. Reduced quality will continue to impact supplies through October. Fringe and tip burn, increased high core, twist and high levels of insect pressure causing discoloration, disease and rib decay.  Most of the defects have been able to be trimmed in the field but more insect damage is being found inside layers. Expect quality issues and escalated prices to continue well into October.Transition to southern production areas is expected by the end of the month while Las Cruces, New Mexico will have limited production starting next week
Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  plantings were negatively impacted by the heat and have shown signs of tip burn and wilt. Prices have escalated , especially Greenleaf as Eastern production areas come to a close in coming weeks.
Celery
Currently there is good availability out of both Santa Maria and Salinas. Prices are slightly lower out of Santa Maria.  Everything looks pretty good with nice green color and good weights coming out of both growing regions. We expect markets to remain at current trading levels for next week.
Artichokes
Production of the thornless varieties has been hampered by successive high temperature events resulting in reduced quality and sizing. We don’t expect any significant volume on larger sizes until the Fall .
Broccoli
Prices have subsided and there is good availability out of both California as well as Mexico product crossing in the Texas Valley. A few shippers are still having minor issues with pin rot but overall most product has cleaned up and looking good. As we head into cooler days and nights we will start to see some purpling on the domes by the end of the month. We estimate to start our Shui Ling broccoli crown program shipping out of Central Mexico loading in Pharr, TX around October 19.
Cauliflower
Market has tightened and prices will reflect lighter volume. Look for prices to increase slightly over the next few days. Warmer temperatures last week and the week before pushed the product along and now cooler temperatures and lower yields as we head towards the end of the California season are the main reasons for a market uptick. Quality has improved slightly but we are still finding the occasional brown spotting.
Brussels Sprouts
 Coastal California supplies continue to improve with a mix of quality and sizing as pricing remains competitive. Supplies are expected to improve as well as demand as we enter the Fall season. An Increase in insect pressure may lead to quality issues but currently quality is mostly good.
Green Onions
Mexico growers continue their reduced Summer acreage. Pricing remains mostly steady. We expect production to increase in a couple weeks as seasonal demand improves heading into the Fall.
Strawberries
We should experience an uptick in volume next week. Organics will continue to be limited. Oxnard and Central Mexico are beginning light volumes. Oxnard will see a significant increase in volume the first week in November. The Northern district will be winding down soon, but at a slower rate than in years past. Santa Maria, California is forecast for low clouds, then sun Wednesday through Friday, mostly cloudy Saturday, and mostly sunny on Sunday. Highs are forecast in the 60s, increasing to the low 70s Friday through the weekend, and lows in the 50s. Salinas/Watsonville, California is forecast for clouds then sun Wednesday and Thursday, chance of rain on Friday, mostly cloudy Saturday, and mostly sunny on Sunday. Highs are forecast in the 60s and lows in the 50s. Santa Maria, California fruit, after the heat and moisture, has some greener fruit, occasional bruising, white shoulders, soft shoulders, heat damage, decay under the calyx, pin rot and misshapen. Average counts are 24 to 26, occasionally higher and lower.
Raspberries
Production is finally turning around with steady increases into November.
Blueberries
Imports continue to come in with good volume on the East Coast. Mexico is starting to pick up in volumes slowly. West coast supplies are limited but we should see some relief late next week. Expect good supply across all regions by late October through November.
Blackberries
We are seeing better numbers this week and several supplies pushing promotions. Mexican production on both organic and conventional is ramping up with very good quality!
Stone Fruit
Red and black plums are available in good supply . Shippers are making deals on volume fill 40/45s and larger. Quality is strong and good sugar. Yellow peach and nectarines are finished for the season. There are some white peaches still available this week, although production is limited. White peach supplies should be completely cleaned up by the middle of next week.
Grapes
Good volumes continue this week on red and green varieties. Shippers are starting to put product into storage for use later in the year. Good volumes are expected to carry us through the month of October, followed by lighter supplies in the first week of November. Red varieties currently available include Scarlet Royal and Magenta. Green varieties include Ivory and Stella Bella. Quality is very strong and product is making good arrivals nation wide. Plenty of product available this week and shippers are looking to move product and listening to offers.
Citrus
Oranges – Demand continues to be strong on valencia oranges. Small sizes are still tight industry wide. Offshore product remains short in supply with no changes expected for the remainder of the season. Large sizes are slightly more available and make up most of the current inventory. Navels are expected to start around the end of the month, which may help ease markets. Demand will continue to be strong for the near future.
Lemons – Plenty of supply this week. NO changes as inventories remain heavy and shippers are looking to move product. Quality is very nice industry wide with very few problems to report. Slightly better demand on large sizes, and plenty of deals being made on small sizes.
Limes – good volumes this week coming out of Mexico. Sizing is peaking mostly on 175 -200 count and shippers are looking to move product. There is some extreme weather in the forecast for some Mexico growing regions over the weekend which could affect quality and supplies in the coming weeks. Currently supplies are plentiful and quality is good overall.
Cantaloupe
Market rose the week before last and stayed firm this week. Supplies continued to diminish, slowly but steadily, as Westside suppliers finished or entered their last fields. Sizes ran smaller after peaking on jbo 9s and 6s and now are skewing to regular 9s and 12s. Desert still has only one viable supply source going in Central Az. Sizes there are also skewing a bit smaller with jbo 9s and 9s the peak size but more 12s showing up. Quality is not quite as good but still mostly ok. Prices were steady this week. Next week the Westside will continue to wind down and most likely out by the end of the period or the beginning of the week of 10/19. At the same time the desert area will pickup, as more suppliers will be getting started between 10/12 and 10/19. However there are fewer acres planted being controlled by fewer sellers so we are not expecting any big surge in supplies or precipitous price drops until year end when off shores get going.
Honeydew
Market continues to play out the same scenario as cantaloupes with the Westide winding and out and the desert phasing in slowly. Like lopes sizes are skewing smaller with less jbo sizes and more regular sizes. Quality is okay. We look for a steady market next week , with the following week being perhaps a bit lower, especially as Mexico hits its stride.
Dry Onions
Washington Onions have almost come to the end of harvest and storage will be starting shortly. Small onions are very hard to come by as a lot are being used for the Farmer to Family program…to say nothing of the contracts. From this writer’s observation, contracts, make up to 40% of the sales for most
shippers and the balance being sold on the spot market. Red’s are a little tight with some shippers and are in the $5.00 range on 25#. Most jumbo yellows 50# are in the $6.00 range…with a few Idaho shippers higher.
Asaparagus
Markets have continued to rise over the last 10 days on both the East and West coasts. Southern Baja production has slowed down causing an incremental demand for East Coast production out of Peru. Supplies have been limited nationwide and, along with retail promotions, have caused the markets to be even more difficult. The expected outlook is limited supplies available through the next few weeks and then an easing as we head into November.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower and Broccoli   . Cooler , more seasonal weather has allowed quality to improve along with better production. In turn prices have begun to ease slightly. We expect further settling as production improves. Cauliflower production remains mostly steady with improving demand. Prices have been gradually escalating as demand increases weekly . We anticipate improved Demand to continue to push pricing higher.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Availability and pricing appear to be mostly steady with Local Homegrown production expected to continue for another week or two.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and demand continues to spike as carrots offer a great grab and go option as well as being a staple commodity in the USDA Farm to Family Food Program. Continue to plan even further ahead to get partial coverage.
Potato and Onions  Markets continue to be strong as well as demand for retail packs. Northwest production continues to be limited.  We expect shortages and elevated prices through the Fall.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Demand for romaine remains strong especially hearts with continued light supplies.due to reduced acres, increased insect pressure and diminished quality . Green and Red quality has suffered more so than Romaine with production lighter with demand improving weekly.
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit Demand continues to be strong throughout the Citrus category due to retail sales. Mexico’s lemon crop is peaking with mostly Fancy supplies and the California Fall/Winter crop has started with limited production.  Many shippers have shifted production exclusively to bags on All Citrus. Lime quality remains inconsistent but has shown signs of improvement. Valencias sizing profile has been leaning toward the smaller sizes which has benefitted increased demand for bags at retail. We anticipate Navels to begin later this month.
OG Grapes
California:   Central Valley production has a couple more weeks of strong supplies before flavor, quality and size declines. Reds continue to offer the best value while Green grape production has been slightly more limited.
OG Melons
California:   Cantaloupes, Honeydew, Watermelon production has been hampered by heat and smokey skies restricting plant growth much of the past month. With only a few weeks left in the California season we should see one last wave in production before the season comes to an early close.
Produce West Inc. | 831-455-2981 | 831-455-1666 | www.producewest.com

10/1/20

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Conventional Items
Lettuce
As quick as markets spiked , demand was squashed, leading to unexpected availability and receding prices. Some shippers are offering heavily discounted deals to revive demand while others remain firm. The volatility will likely continue with legitimate shortages still looming if demand returns to even close to normal. Quality issues remain although most are being contained at field level. We anticipate markets to steady once sustainable pricing returns. Transition to the Central Valley California will begin in a couple weeks as well as Las Cruces , New Mexico to help supplement supplies.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine   Demand for carton and heart romaine continues to be strong mostly due to acreage cutbacks and reduced yields due to heat related stress. Reduced quality will continue to impact supplies through October. Fringe and tip burn, increased high core, twist and high levels of insect pressure causing discoloration, disease and rib decay.  Most of the defects have been able to be trimmed in the field but more insect damage is being found inside layers. Expect quality issues and escalated prices to continue well into October. The above photo is an extreme case of soil disease affecting fields
Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  plantings were negatively impacted by the heat and have shown signs of tip burn and wilt. Prices have escalated , especially Greenleaf as Eastern production areas come to a close in coming weeks. .
Celery
Currently there is good availability out of both Santa Maria and Salinas. Prices are slightly lower out of Santa Maria.  Everything looks pretty good with nice green color and good weights coming out of both growing regions.
Artichokes
Production of the thornless varieties has been hampered by successive high temperature events resulting in reduced quality and sizing. We don’t expect any significant volume on larger sizes until the fall .
Broccoli
There should be better availability going into next week as growers work through the pin rot issues that have inhibited their harvest for the last three weeks. Look for prices to come off slightly but the cooler nights and shorter days will help keep numbers in check so we won’t see any dramatic price drops, just a gradual decline going into next week. We estimate to start our Shui Ling broccoli crown program shipping out of Central Mexico loading in Pharr,TX around October 19.
Cauliflower
There are a lot of inquiries about cauliflower but business has not been brisk enough the last few days for buyers to pull the trigger and purchase. Expectations are for markets to begin to increase by the end of the week and for sure next week. If you need to purchase don’t wait too much longer as we will see an increase in prices soon.
Brussels Sprouts
Coastal California supplies continue to improve with a mix of quality and sizing as pricing remains competitive. Supplies are expected to improve as well as demand as we enter the Fall season. An Increase in insect pressure may lead to quality issues but currently quality is mostly good.
Green Onions
Mexico growers continue their reduced summer acreage. Pricing remains mostly steady. We expect production to increase in a couple weeks as seasonal demand improves heading into the Fall.
Strawberries
Limited supplies will continue into next week. Many shippers are sold out or oversold for the remainder of this week and it will carry over into next week. Northern California fruit is seeing end-of-season issues such as heavier bruising and softness. Santa Maria, California, fruit has occasional bruising, white shoulders, and soft shoulders. Oxnard is starting in a small way this week with their fall crop, and will ramp up over the next few weeks. As long as temperatures do not get too extreme, we should see more fruit the of October 9th.
Raspberries
Production is still falling with relief coming with new-crop Michoacán starting in 2-3 weeks. Expect the peak period to be reached mid November.
Blueberries
Peruvian imports are starting to ramp up, but Mexico is still a few weeks behind so the market will hold steady, but we should see better volume by mid October.
Blackberries
Mexican production is slowly increasing in volume as we transition from California to Mexico.
Stone Fruit
Yellow peaches and yellow nectarines are finished for the season. White nectarines are finishing up this week. There are some white peaches available in limited numbers, but shippers are picky as to where they go. Late season red and black plums will continue through December. Production is good on 40 count and larger. Quality is good on plums overall with very few issues to report on arrival.
Grapes
Good volume this week on most red and green grape varieties. We expect consistent supplies and pricing as we head into the next few weeks, followed by lighter supplies around the last week of October. Black seedless varieties are finishing up and supplies are expected to tighten early next week. High volumes are currently being harvested in the California central valley and there are multiple varieties to choose from. Quality has been very nice. There have been excellent quality reports, with very few issues to report industry wide.
Citrus
Oranges – heavy demand on oranges this week as supplies continue to dry up and production gaps widen. Small sizes are extremely difficult to find, with slightly better supplies on large sizes. The Chilean crop has been limited, with no relief in sight for the near future. Demand from South American countries has been so high that is it affecting their export supplies. Quality on valencias has been suffering as product is exposed to late summer heat and the season comes to a close.
Lemons – Plenty of supplies industry wide and shippers are looking to move inventories. The lemon market is still being severely affected by restaurant and bar closures. There are plenty of deals on small sized fruit and shippers are listening to offers. Quality is very nice coming out of multiple growing areas.
Limes – Plenty of small limes available and shippers are listening to offers. Good availability is expected for the next few weeks. Some color issues have been reported, but the overall defects are minimal. Run offers by us on limes.
Cantaloupe
Transition time is upon us. A few Westside shippers are in their last fields and should be finishing within a week. Others will continue to pull fruit from the last of their fields but with less yields. Desert has one shipper in Central AZ starting with exceptionally large fruit peaking on jbo 6s, although the next pass in those fields should start to produce more jbo 9s and 9s. Quality, as it has all year, remains good. Demand has slowed accordingly due reaction to higher prices and more autumnal mindset from buyers and consumers. Thus, in spite of light supplies pricing has calmed a bit. Next week supplies should be even lighter as more Westside shippers wrap up. Most desert shippers are not expected to start until mid October. Mexico as well. We look for a steady to possibly slightly lower market next week.
Honeydew
Dews are following the cantaloupe narrative with Westside finishing, Desert starting in a small way, but with only one supplier and others not starting until mid October. Sizes are skewing large especially in the early desert deal. Mexico is starting as well. Quality is less consistent than lopes but still good. Demand continue to slow up as higher prices, less than optimal sizing and seasonal change keeps it in check. We look for a steady but uneasy market next week on honeydews
Dry Onions
The Harvest is almost over in Washington State with about 2 weeks left. Most houses are filling orders on what they have the day of shipping, so some of the supplies are a little spotty. Cities like Chicago and few other spots are starting to let people dine in doors with 40 % capacity. We’ll see if there are any spikes in Covid infections and the future will be devised by those incidents. Oregon and Washington are getting into better sizing and the jumbo market may feel the effects in the short run, the mostly market is holding steady with decent action in sales. Reds are rocking along in the 5 to 6-dollar range and whites
are a little tight. As the economy opens, the demand should start to increase, and, depending on the ebb and flow of the storage crop, we could see much higher pricing as demands grows. On the other hand, suffice to say we know what happens if the virus gets a strangled hold on the economy again.
Asaparagus
Everything I said last week is wrong this week. Having taken a lot of ad business for the 1st of the month, we thought the market would be able to supply the demand…Oh no…we are short and prorating orders. There are a lot of 99 cent ads going and cooler weather has cause production to drop in Mexico. Peru is going strong but the folks that put Mexican grass on ad will suffer next week.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower and Broccoli    Broccoli production continues to suffer from poor quality. We expect some improvement when the weather cools although it could be another couple weeks. Prices are likely to settle at current levels until we transition to Southern California . Cauliflower production remains steady with improving demand and rising prices . We anticipate improved Demand to continue to push pricing higher heading into October
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Availability and pricing appear to be mostly steady with local homegrown production expected to continue for another couple weeks.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot production has been steady and demand continues to spike as carrots offer a great grab and go option as well as being a staple commodity in the USDA Farm to Family Food Program. Continue to plan even further ahead to get partial coverage. Carrots mostly come from Central Valley of California which fires should not affect although Hot weather will likely impact the tops of the bunched carrots
Potato and Onions  Markets continue to be strong as well as demand for retail packs. Northwest production continues to be limited.  We expect shortages and advancing prices through the Fall.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Demand for romaine remains strong especially hearts with lighter supplies due to last week’s heatwave, reduced acres, increased insect pressure and diminished quality . Green and Red quality has suffered more so than Romaine with production lighter although demand remains moderate for now.
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit Demand continues to be strong throughout the Citrus category due to retail sales. Mexico’s lemon crop is peaking with mostly Fancy supplies. Many shippers have shifted production exclusively to bags on All Citrus. Lime quality remains inconsistent but has shown signs of improvement. Valencias sizing profile has been leaning toward the smaller sizes which has benefitted increased demand for bags at retail. We anticipate Navels to begin next month.
OG Grapes
California:   Central Valley production remains strong with moderate demand. We expect excellent flavor, quality and size to last through most of October before sizing and quality declines.  the Summer with promotional volume available. Off sizes and reduced quality grapes continue to be available at discounted prices.
OG Melons
California:   Cantaloupes, Honeydew, Watermelon production has been hampered by heat and smokey skies restricting plant growth much of the past month. With only a few weeks left in the California season we should see one last wave in production before the season comes to an early close.
Produce West Inc. | 831-455-2981 | 831-455-1666 | www.producewest.com

9/24/20

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Conventional Items
Lettuce
Markets spiked as fields continue to see increased quality issues from recent heat waves. Temperatures warm again this weekend but not excessively. Stressed plants along with increased insect pressure has led to reduced quality and yields. Demand continues to be light to moderate as prices shot up primarily on reduced supplies and processor demand. We anticipate markets to maintain their peak at current levels with supplies stretched thin for the remaining month of the Salinas/Santa Maria season. Transition usually brings shortages but additional production areas could provide some relief in a couple weeks. Las Cruces , NM  is scheduled to begin production by mid October
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine Demand for Carton and Heart Romaine continues to excel combined with the stress from the recent heatwave supplies have tightened even further and pushed prices higher. Reduced quality will continue to impact supplies through October. Fringe and tip burn, increased high core, twist and high levels of insect pressure ( Lygus & Thrip ) causing discoloration, disease and rib decay.  Most of the initial defects have been able to be trimmed in the field but more insect damage is being found in the inside layers. Expect quality issues and High prices to continue well into October.
Red leaf, green leaf and boston  plantings were negatively impacted by the heat and have shown signs of tip burn and wilt. Prices have escalated as Eastern production areas come to a close in coming weeks.
Celery
As we begin to head into the fall months we should begin to see demand and pricing gradually increase. Currently there is good availability out of both Santa Maria and Salinas. Prices are slightly lower out of Santa Maria. Quality has been fine, there is still the occasional yellow leaf due to the heat from a few weeks ago , but over all everything looks pretty good with nice green color and good weights coming out of both growing regions.
Artichokes
Production of the thornless varieties has been hampered by successive high temperature events resulting in reduced quality and sizing. We don’t expect any significant volume on larger sizes until the Fall .
Broccoli
There should be better availability going into next week as growers work through the pin rot issues that have inhibited their harvest for the last three weeks. Look for prices to come off slightly but the the cooler nights and shorter days will help keep numbers in check so dont expect any major changes. We estimate to start our Shui Ling broccoli crown program shipping out of Central Mexico loading in Pharr,TX around October 15.
Cauliflower
Do not expect any changes going into next week. Markets will remain steady. There are still some quality issues with brown bead and yellow cast which is not so definite and time of shipping but continues to show up upon arrival 3-4 days later.
Brussels Sprouts
Coastal California supplies continue to improve with a mix of quality and sizing as pricing remains competitive. Current Supplies were unaffected by the high temperatures although some younger plants have shown signs of distress scheduled for harvest early next month
Green Onions
Mexico growers continue their reduced Summer acres which offset increasingly Hot temperatures in Mexico and local Eastern production this time of year. Pricing has advanced as supplies have temporarily slowed due to high temperatures affecting yields and National Holiday observance . Expect increased production by early next month.
Strawberries
Cooler Temperatures, Labor shortages, and quality defects from the extreme heat a few weeks ago have resulted in decreased volumes and yields industry wide. Expect volumes to continue to be low over the next few weeks. Cooler temps and a thick marine layer has contributed to a higher level of fruit defects which is impacting volume as well. Organics are light in number due to the same problems that the conventional market is experiencing.
Raspberries
We still are feeling the effects from the high temperature we experienced a few weeks ago. Volumes continue to be low across all California regions and expected to remain low through the end of September. We expect an uptick in numbers as we move into October.
Blueberries
We will see increasing numbers on the Peruvian fruit through the end of the year. We will also see better numbers out of Mexico next week, with Baja not far behind.
Blackberries
We are transitioning between domestic and Mexico prodigy regions. Supplies will remain low for the next several weeks until we see the numbers out of Mexico increase. Oregon and New Jersey will be finished for the season in the next few days.
Stone Fruit
Yellow peaches and nectarines have finished for the season. There are currently some white peaches and nectarines still available but supplies are limited. Red and black plums are still available in good production, although small sizes are somewhat limited. Run offers by us on large red and black plums.
Grapes
Steady supplies continue this week on red and green grapes this week. Good supplies are expected to continue for the next few weeks, followed by lighter production towards the middle of the month. Multiple varieties from multiple growers are currently available. Red varieties include Magenta, Scarlet Royal and Magenta. Green varieties currently consist of Bella, Ivory and Pristine. Summer Royals are the majority of the black grape varieties. Plenty of product to promote for the next few weeks, so run offers by us.
Citrus
Oranges – Strong markets continue this week. Small sizes are extremely tight and difficult to find. We expect these conditions to last through the remainder of the season. High demand world wide has decreased imports to the US, creating wide supply gaps nationally as domestic production finishes up. Quality is only fair, and will continue to decline as the season draws to a close. Expect elevated pricing well into next month.
Lemons – good availability this week with production coming out of multiple growing areas. Better demand on large sized fruit. Quality has been strong industry wide with very few issues to report. Run offers by us.
Limes – Good availability this week. Demand has been sluggish over the past few months as a continuing result of the pandemic. Overall quality has been good, however there have been some reports of yellow color. Shippers are looking to promote so run offers by us.
Cantaloupe
After a season of lackluster demand and depressed prices, we suddenly find ourselves in a considerable supply gap. Recent historic heat, combined with air fouled by smoke from historic wildfires, has caused an impending sudden end to the westside deal a couple of weeks earlier than usual. There will be limited harvesting for the next 10 days or so, but fields have been so ravaged that yields are depressed. Sizes are skewing heavily to jbo 9s and 6s with some 9s and few smaller. Quality has remained surprisingly good. Daily supplies for sales other than contractually committed product has been very short. Most sellers are falling short of meeting commitments or have wrong sizes to meet specs of those contracts, leaving contracted buyers scrambling to find enough supplies to cover their needs. Prices shot upward and then hit a plateau. This situation is looking as if it will continue until the fall desert deal starts. One grower has started to harvest in a small way and will have supplies but most shippers will not be starting until mid October, with lighter overall plantings this fall. We look for an active and tight market for the next two to three weeks.
Honeydew
Like cantaloupes, the Westside is winding down to a close and sizes are skewing to jbo 5s and regular 5s with less 6s and a few smaller. Quality and condition are acceptable. Demand is not as robust as with cantaloupes, but then again, it never is. The same outlook as lopes applies to dews. Gapping supplies and higher prices should be in effect thru the middle of the month when the desert deal is expected to hit its stride.
Dry Onions
Oregon and Washington are getting into better sizing and the jumbo market may feel the effects in the short run. The mostly market is holding steady with decent action in sales. Reds are rocking along in the 5 to 6-dollar range and whites are a little tight. As the economy opens, the demand should start to
increase, and, depending on the ebb and flow of the storage crop, we could see much higher pricing as demands grows. On the other hand, suffice to say we know what happens if the virus get a stranglehold on the economy again.
Asaparagus
Mexico is shipping a lot of asparagus with pricing in the mid- teens. There doesn’t seem to be any let up until at least to the late part of the month. Promotional prices are available from every shipper. As the weather starts to change in the east, we could see traction on recent Ad pricing.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower and Broccoli    Broccoli production continues to be minimal due to poor quality. We expect this trend to continue through early next month.  Prices have been pushed to annual highs and are expected to continue until we transition south towards the end of next month. Cauliflower production has fared much better with moderate supplies and prices to match. We anticipate supplies to tighten and prices to escalate when cooler fall temperatures arrive.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Availability and pricing appear to be mostly steady with Local Homegrown production expected to continue for another month.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and demand continues to spike as carrots offer a great grab and go option as well as being a staple commodity in the USDA Farm to Family Food Program. Continue to plan even further ahead to get partial coverage. Carrots mostly come from Central Valley of California which fires should not affect although Hot weather will likely impact the tops of the bunched carrots
Potato and Onions  Markets continue to be strong as well as demand for retail packs. Northwest production continues to be limited.  We expect shortages and advancing prices through the Fall.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Demand for romaine remains strong especially hearts with lighter supplies due to last week’s heatwave, reduced acres, increased insect pressure and diminished quality . Green and Red quality has suffered more so than Romaine with production lighter although demand remains moderate for now.
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit Demand continues to be strong throughout the Citrus category due to retail sales and Food Box programs . Mexico’s lemon crop is peaking with mostly fancy supplies. Many shippers have shifted production exclusively to bags on all citrus. Lime quality remains inconsistent but has shown signs of improvement. Valencias sizing profile has been leaning toward the smaller sizes which has benefitted increased demand for bags at retail. We anticipate navels to begin next month.
OG Grapes
California: Central Valley production remains strong with moderate demand. We expect excellent flavor, quality and size to last through the summer with promotional volume available. Off sizes and reduced quality grapes continue to be available at discounted prices.
OG Melons
California:   Cantaloupes, Honeydew, Watermelon production has been hampered by heat and smokey skies restricting plant growth much of the past month. With only a few weeks left in the California season we should see one last wave in production before the season comes to an early close.

9/16/20

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Conventional Items
Lettuce
Things are about to get interesting . After a month of intermittent hot temperatures , cooler fall like weather has taken hold.  These hot spells have stressed plants, increased insect pressure leading to reduced quality and yields. Markets have reacted even with moderate demand . We expect markets to continue to escalate as demand improves. Most growers have been nearly 2 weeks ahead of schedule . With the expected transition south in a little over a month supplies are expected to be stretched thin.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine   Demand for Carton and Heart Romaine continues to excel combined with the stress from the recent heatwave supplies have tightened even further and pushed prices higher. Reduced quality will continue to impact supplies through September. Fringe and tip burn, increased high core and now significant levels of insect pressure ( Lygus & Thrip ) causing discoloration, disease and rib decay.  Most of the initial defects have been able to be trimmed in the field but more insect damage is being found in the inside layers. Expect quality issues and Higher prices to continue through September.
Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  plantings were negatively impacted by the heat and have shown signs of tip burn and wilt. Prices have ranged but expect them to follow Romaine as Eastern production areas come to a close.
Celery
Steady harvest volumes are predicted for the remainder of the week. We expect to see a gradual increase in price starting next week. Shorter days and cooler nights will slow down growth. Quality reports show overall good quality with very occasional signs of heat damage in the form of some yellow leaves and light color stalks. Salinas and Santa Maria are currently the primary shipping points for celery on the West Coast.
Artichokes
Production of the thornless varieties has been hampered by successive high temperature events resulting in reduced quality and sizing. We don’t expect any significant volume on larger sizes until the Fall .
Cauliflower
Cauliflower is still available in the sub $10.00 range although I am being told that we will see an increase in price beginning next week. We are still finding some brown spotting and yellow cast product due to the heat a couple of weeks ago. Keep an eye on this market!
Broccoli
Light supplies will continue into next week which will equate to continued high prices. We are still seeing some brown beads and pin rot in the product due to the heat a couple of weeks ago. The cooler nights and foggy and overcast mornings will impede production as well. We estimate to start our Shui Ling broccoli crown program shipping out of Central Mexico and loading in Pharr,TX around October 15.
Brussels Sprouts
Coastal California supplies continue to improve with a mix of quality and sizing as pricing remains competitive. Current Supplies were unaffected by the high temperatures over the weekend but expect younger plants to show signs towards the end of the month.
Green Onions
Mexico growers continue their reduced Summer acres which offset increasingly Hot temperatures in Mexico and local Eastern production this time of year. Pricing has advanced as supplies have temporarily slowed due to high temperatures affecting yields
Strawberries
The weather we received over the past 10 days continues to affect the market. The heat has stressed the plants and some growers had to remove some acres from production due to quality issues brought on by high temperatures. Santa Maria, California, is forecast for hazy sun, becoming mostly sunny for the weekend. Highs are forecast in the 70s with lows in the 50s. Salinas/Watsonville, California, is forecast for hazy skies, becoming mostly sunny for the weekend. Highs are forecast in the upper-70s with lows in the 50s. Santa Maria, California, fruit has occasional bruising, white shoulders, soft shoulders, heat damage, misshapen, scarring caused from wind, seedy tips, and catface. Average counts are 20 to 22, occasionally higher and lower.
Raspberries
Reduce volumes continued due to last week’s heat. We are expecting volumes to be steady next week and begin to ramp up the last week in September.  We are still shipping the late season fruit and will be transitioning to new crop varieties at the end of the month.
Blueberries
The Argentinian and Peruvian seasons will reach peak volumes, late October through November. Good quality and availability will start ramping. Mexico is a bit delayed but will start ramping up over the next few weeks. Mexico will start to increase their volume next week. We expect good volume and supplies starting in late October.
Blackberries
We are entering a transition period between US and central mexico producing regions.   Mexican imports have started and Oregon is still going. Expect Mexico to ramp up heading into late fall, with a steady increase now until late October. Santa Maria fall crop started with light numbers.
Stone Fruit
Yellow peaches and nectarines are finishing up this week for the season. There are some larger tray pack still available, but those will likely clean up by the weekend. Offshore product is not expected to arrive for a few more weeks so expect a supply gap until then. Late season plums will continue into December. Production is good on large red and black plums, particularly on 40 count and larger. Small sized plums are limited so get orders in early.
Grapes
Steady markets this week out of the California central valley on red a green grapes. Red grapes are plentiful with a wide array of varieties and sizing options to choose from. Quality is holding up nicely despite recent heatwaves. We are currently in peak season on reds and promotable volumes are currently available. Green grape inventories have been slightly more affected by the heat and volumes have declined from previous weeks. Supplies are still strong and multiple varieties are available, so markets are not expected to jump significantly. Please continue to run offer by us on red and green grapes.
Citrus
Oranges – Demand is very strong on valencia oranges, particularly on 113 and 138 sizes. We expect shortages to last throughout the remainder of the season as many growers finish up production. Offshore product is limited due to increasing demand in South American countries, thus there is less product to export on their end. Quality is starting to suffer as a result of high temps and tired fruit. Expect pricing to continue rising through next week as volumes decline.
Lemons – Plenty of fruit available at competitive pricing. Foodservice business remains slow and more product is hitting the open market. Multiple growing areas are adding to the abundance of supply across the country . Quality is very nice. Listening to offers.
Limes- Fewer crossings this week as rain in growing areas affects production. Markets have held stead from last week though we could see stronger pricing later next week depending on the amount of rain received in Mexico. Quality is beginning to suffer, be sure to know what you are getting before you ship.
Cantaloupe
The market plot thickens along with the smoke in the air of the fire afflicted San Joaquin Valley; Record heat, followed by lower than average temps, as well as foul air has wrecked havoc on the fields that are left to harvest over the next month. Supplies have plunged and many growers have been experiencing gaps between fields. This trend looks to extend for the rest of the Westside deal as the fields that are left looks as if they have sustained damage. Pricing went up accordingly and all sizes became tight, especially 9s. For growers restarting harvest after the gap, sizes are peaking on job 9s and 6s. Others n 12s. Prices shot upward on sizes this week. Next week it appears we are in for more of the same with high prices, light supplies and unpredictable sizing and quality. The desert deal is expected to start the last week of September, or first week in October.
Honeydew
Much the same as cantaloupes but more available as they are not in as much demand. Volume has been light due to the same environmental factors affecting cantaloupes. Market rose due to light supplies. Sizes continued to peak on 5s and 6s then jbo 5s. We could see improved demand if cantaloupes continue to be as limited as they are now. Otherwise we look for a steady to a bit higher market.
Dry Onions
All the action is in the Northwest and some in Nevada and a few California. The business is steady in the $6-$7.00 range on Jumbo Yellows. Sizes are consistent and some Colossal and Super Colossal. Reds are steady in the $7 range. There are some Italian reds in the Gilroy and Salinas areas.
Asaparagus
Mexico is shipping a lot of Asparagus with pricing in the mid- teens. There doesn’t seem to be any let up until at least to the late part of the month. Promotional prices are available from every shipper.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower and Broccoli    Broccoli production continues to be minimal due to poor quality. We expect this trend to continue through early next month.  Prices are expected to be pushed higher with little relief in sight. Cauliflower production was impacted as well although quality and supplies had been stronger up til now as we anticipate supplies to tighten and prices to escalate as the weather has begun to cool.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Availability and pricing appear to be mostly steady with Local Homegrown production adding to overall supplies.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and demand continues to spike as carrots offer a great grab and go option as well as being a staple commodity in the USDA Farm to Family Food Program. Continue to plan even further ahead to get partial coverage. Carrots mostly come from Central Valley of California which fires should not affect although Hot weather will likely impact the tops of the bunched carrots
Potato and Onions  Markets continue to be strong as well as demand for retail packs. The USDA Food Box Program continues to be the driving force. Northwest production has been delayed but should start soon with an expected very short window.  We expect shortages and advancing prices through the Fall.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Demand for romaine remains strong especially hearts with lighter supplies due to last week’s heatwave, reduced acres, increased insect pressure and diminished quality . Green and Red quality has suffered more so than Romaine with production lighter although demand remains mild for now. Expect to see some visible ash from local wildfires.
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit Demand continues to be strong throughout the Citrus category due to retail sales and Food Box programs . California lemon crop has finished up as supplies from Mexico have begun to level off along with prices.  Many shippers have shifted production exclusively to bags on All Citrus. Lime quality remains inconsistent but has shown signs of improvement. Valencias sizing profile has been leaning toward the smaller sizes which has benefitted increased demand for bags at retail
OG Grapes
California:   Central Valley production remains strong with moderate demand. We expect excellent flavor, quality and size to last through the Summer with promotional volume available. Off sizes and reduced quality grapes continue to be available at discounted prices.
OG Melons
California:   Cantaloupes and Honeydew production surged last week but growers are assessing damage on the younger plantings that will likely lead to reduced production for the next couple weeks especially mini Watermelon varieties.