An early April storm has settled over California with rain showers continuing off and on through this week.  There is also a cold front on the west coast and inland valleys with low level snow and hail at sea level.  This cold snap will slow growth in most items, and the rain will slow harvesting because of wet muddy fields.  This will result in stronger markets industry wide.  A slight warming trend next week could create some quality issues for certain items like berries, leaf and head lettuce.  Warmer temperatures in the east should help demand as Easter pull begins.  Truck rates remain consistent with last week. As demand picks up next week we could see slightly higher freight bills.  Still plenty of trucks available into next week.

LETTUCE – the waiting game continues as this market remains sluggish.  Huron has produced above average yields and demand has been sluggish.  If rain continues, harvest delays could lighten supply and we could see better markets early next week. As for now, there is still plenty of product. Yuma production ran longer this year with higher than normal volume, filling the transition gaps.  Heavier weights and red ribbing are some current issues we have seen, although overall condition is good.

BROCCOLI – market could firm up next week as a result of the cold weather and rain. For now, plenty of product and sluggish demand has kept this market steady.  Supplies are coming out of multiple areas throughout California and Arizona.  Quality is fine.

CAULIFLOWER –Prices have bottomed out and could get stronger into the weekend.  The cold weather and rain will certainly have an effect on the next harvest.  Currently supplies are steady but shippers are selling out daily.   Demand is still below average; we don’t expect huge changes but more coastal rain later in the week may turn things around.

LEAF – Huron will be finishing up this weekend and most production will shift to Salinas and Santa Maria. Green leaf has tightened up slightly.  Romaine Hearts are getting very active, we could see a 20 dollar market later next week, especially if rain continues and production slows. There is a warming trend in the forecast following the storm that could create some quality issues like mildew, particularly on romaine.

CELERY – Not much change here.  More deals on larger sizes with a few dollar spread between sizes. Easter pull is expected to firm up the market and we could see some higher priced celery early next week.  The rain shouldn’t affect quality, although cold weather and muddy fields could delay harvest.

BERRIES –

Strawberries – Markets are soft, although current rains will lighten the supply. Florida has finished for the season.  Watsonville has started but in a light way.  Expect rain related issues moving into the latter part of the week. Heavy rains have already hit central California and more is on the way.  We should see lighter supplies next week and higher prices as we near Easter pull.  Warm weather is expected after this weekend so we will be seeing weaker fruit next week.  Expect some bruising and soft fruit in the coming weeks. California is the main production area, so these issues will be industry wide.

Raspberries – Light supplies overall.  Quality has been ok overall, but reports of soft, leaky fruit coming in from Mexico. Prices have leveled off for now but the market will improve as Easter pull starts next week.

Blackberries – Market remains active, volume is not expected to increase throughout April and into May. Sluggish markets in January and February created a gap in supply, and warmer weather in the south has hurt quality resulting in soft, leaky fruit.

Blueberries – With the Chilean season winding down, prices are expected to climb as California and Baja attempt to pick up the slack.  California production will not pick up until mid-April at the earliest.  Expect higher prices until then.  Once California production picks up, prices will level off and ease into May.

ASPARAGUS – This market keeps inching upward as we near Easter pull. Mexico is finishing up and demand has shifted north.  Salinas and central valley production is beginning to pick up but demand has been increasing daily.  Easter ads start next week and production will be light.  FOBs could hit $50 range on 28#, and if current weather conditions continue we may see the market get even stronger.  This will be a high priced item for the entire month.

Weather around the country has been ideal  especially on the  West Coast where short lived high pressure has caused temperatures to spike in the 90’s but by the weekend temperatures are expected to drop into the 60’s. Similar drops are expected for other parts of the country.   Although sudden spikes in temperatures have temporary negative impact on quality the cooler weather should help offset any long term issues. This may help stretch out some local growing areas but if temps drop too low then it could spell the beginning of the end for the homegrown season.

West Coast day time temperatures are currently hot but long range weather is predicted to drop below normal later this week and continue  below normal through the middle of the month. Current Highs are in the mid 80’s-90’s but will give way to 60′s by the weekend. Inland Valley’s and deserts will also see a drop to below normal after the current warming trend.   Weather around the countries local growing areas also is  predicted to be below normal with low’s of 32 degrees and  below predicted for some of the upper Midwest and Northeast growing areas.

Truck availability remains good but fuel costs  have kept rates elevated  for this time  of year.  Most Independents and  transportation brokers  continue to  solicit business which is  helping ease rates down slowly.  Advance notice will help in getting best value available.

LETTUCE-  Increase in production and strong yields  have lead to a softening market.  Yields  will start to decline as the weather cools  but overall production will continue to climb . Currently quality is good in Salinas with occasional mildew and fringe burn but seasonal discoloration issues (russett amp; pink rib) are starting to show on arrivals.  Loading Fresh  lettuce is  extremely important especially this  time of year.

BROCCOLI- Supplies are increasing as Fall plantings are increased to meet demand but with plenty of homegrown product still available the market has been overall fair .  Quality continues to be excellent. Volume  deals  are available currently but look for supplies to stabilize as the weather starts to  cool by early next week

CAULIFLOWER- Production has  leveled off and the overall market has rebounded. There are still a few available deals but cooler weather should further strengthen the market by the weekend. Quality is mostly good with occasional mildew jacket.

LEAF ITEMS- Romaine and Romaine Heart markets have peaked and lower pricing is available .  Demand on green and red leaf has weakened along with Romaine .  A  wide range of quality is available especially with current heat spell causing wilting issues  and shopping for quality is a must.

CELERY- Market has been stable with occasional volume  offerings.  Quality and sizing are nice, good strong stalks with good color.  Production will start increasing from Salinas as well as Santa Maria and eventually Oxnard  which will be  offset by the declining production in Michigan.

ASPARAGUS– Production from Mexico is still light  and demand has stayed strong with overall  market  improving daily.  Quality is improving weekly and is comparable to imports from Peru.

GREEN ONION- Production continues to increase.  Markets have been reacting downward as supplies have outraced demand especially  on smaller sizes.    Supplies of ALL sizes  should continue to increase throughout the week and level off by next week. Quality has been inconsistent but should improve as supplies increase.

BRUSSELS SPROUTS-  Increased supplies are expected but have not been enough to offset the strong Fall demand. Demand is expected to lighten up by the end of the week and supplies should continue to increase , including some local production in the Northeast just underway . This  will put pressure on markets which will likely head lower. 

STRAWBERRIES- Fall production  out of Santa Maria is  starting to increase but the  majority of fruit on the market is still from weakening Summer plants. The  current  hot weather will further soften the  fruit and add to the  widening range of prices. Most shippers  selling Summer fruit are correctly pricing theirs to move.   Demand  is very good for top quality fruit but most , if not all, fruit will have issues upon arrival . Continue to expect 20-25% bruising related issues on arrival. Cooler night time temps return by the  end of the week and quality should start to rebound.  Oxnard production will start picking up  and will  help with  available quality .  Raspberry  prices are slightly higher for the best quality labels. Limited production of Blackberries continues to be shipped almost exclusively to the West Coast.

GRAPES- The market on Green and  Red grapes is stronger as most shippers  are transitioning into their late season varieties. Quality continues to be  excellent  due to the  ideal weather throughout the  Summer season in the  Central Valley.

Transition is wrapping up with most vegetable production coming out of Salinas, Santa Maria and Oxnard.  Transportation has been a challenge, more loading areas, pickups, and rates have risen to compensate for multiple stops and a higher demand.  Trucks are currently available but rates have jumped $1000 or more since last month and will remain strong through Easter. More product available in Salinas towards the later part of this week that should help keep pickups down, although Easter pull will keep rates inching upward.  Unseasonably hot weather hit the central coast earlier this week, with temperatures well into the 80s, and inland temperatures in the low 90s. A cooling trend will follow into the weekend.

LETTUCE – Yuma is mostly finished up and most shippers are exclusively up north.  Huron is nearing the end and pressure will be put on Salinas and Santa Maria areas.  Lighter numbers this week is causing a slight uptick in market, shippers are selling out daily.   There is a large variance in quality from extreme weather conditions, starting with rain last week and a few days of heat this week. Keep in mind that issues such as pink rib, light color and heavy weights are industry wide.

BROCCOLI – Markets have been gaining momentum and higher prices are expected later this week. Lighter supply expected in the next several days.  Multiple growing regions, as well as coast product are factors keeping this market from making significant jumps.  That’s not to say the market is weak, but it could be a lot higher.  The overall broccoli market will most likely be strong into the summer because of lack of supply due to water restrictions in the central valley.

CAULIFLOWER – steady market for now.  Demand has not increased substantially, although we should see a strong market through Easter pull.  Some shippers are sold out and forecasting light numbers for the next few days.  Quality has been holding up for the most part, Salinas has been yielding good product and bright white color.

LEAF – Supplies are rebounding from last week.  Expect this market to come off slightly towards the end of this week. Romaine and Romaine heart prices have leveled off for now.  Salinas is nearing full production and supplies are increasing. Some quality issues like fringe burn and red ribs but quality is mostly good.

CELERY – Still plenty of celery available in out of Oxnard.  More large sized celery available with fewer deals on smaller sizes.  Quality is currently very nice, although seeder is beginning to become an issue and will continue to be evident in the coming weeks.  Celery is not a big Easter item and we expect a fairly flat market in the weeks to come.

BERRIES –

Strawberries – Market is currently tight industry wide.  Supplies are trying to recover from the rain and hot weather from the past week.  With mild weather forecasted for the next week on the coast, supply should slowly rebound, but demand will continue strong through the Easter pull.   Quality has been average, very few issues to speak of other than some bruising and overripe.

Raspberries – Still very tight, heavy pro rates. Quality has been marginal at best, with some reports of leaky and overripe fruit. Expect light numbers for the next 7 days and better supply at the tail end of Easter pull.

Blackberries – tight supply, and will continue to be light into next month. There has been a wide range of quality industry wide and a variance of pricing as a result.

ASPARAGUS – Strong market continues as we near the Easter holiday.  Salinas and central valley product is the majority of production. While there are still supplies coming out of South America and Mexico, numbers are very light and demand is strong. Quality has been nice this year, very few issues.

This week marks the  beginning of the transition of Fruits and Vegetables to the central amp; southern parts of the state and Mexico. Peppers and Squash have already transitioned south and melons amp; berries are on a fast track to the southern districts.  A few core veg items  will start the transition to the  Central Valley , iceberg lettuce and romaine , next week. The balance of the veg items will transition over the next 4-6 weeks to the Central Valley and  desert areas. The transition on the West Coast coincides with the decline of the Northeast local growing regions putting greater demand on California and Mexican products. Over the  next 6 weeks advanced planning will be critical to organize transportation and logistics to get the best possible value and quality.

California weather has fluctuated the  past few weeks with record highs last weekend to below normal average through this week. After possible showers Wednesday long term weather looks to be  near normal for the  balance of the  month. Historical averages  for coastal California are high’s of 72 and low’s near 50 degrees.  Inland Valley’s average 82/50. Desert averages 94/68.  Weather around the  country is following a similar pattern with below normal temperatures this week and a return to normal seasonal temperatures for the balance of the month.

Truck availability remains good but recent surges in fuel cost in California  have kept rates elevated  for this time  of year. Although crude oil prices have fallen in recent weeks, troubles  with California refineries  have allowed Gas and Diesel prices  to climb to Historical high’s.  Averaging near $4.75 a gallon and rising.  Although many Independent and  transportation brokers  continue to  solicit business.  Advance notice will help in getting best value available.

LETTUCE-  Increase in production and strong yields  have lead to a softening market.  Currently quality is good in Salinas with occasional mildew and fringe burn but seasonal discoloration issues (russett amp; pink rib) are starting to show on arrivals. Expect some  discoloration issues on arrival especially if the predicted midweek  rain showers materialize.   Loading Fresh  lettuce is  extremely important especially this  time of year. Transition to new growing area in Central California starting next week won’t guarantee better quality but will help give options to choose best lettuce available.  

BROCCOLI- Supplies are increasing as Fall plantings are increased to meet demand but with plenty of homegrown product still available around the country the market has been overall fair .  Quality continues to be excellent. Volume  deals  are available currently but look for supplies to stabilize as the weather starts to cool this week.

CAULIFLOWER- Production and demand appear to have both leveled out.  There are still a few available deals for volume  but cooler weather this week should  strengthen the market. Quality is mostly good with occasional mildew jacket.

LEAF ITEMS- Romaine and Romaine Heart markets continue to be weak with lower pricing available.  Demand on green and red leaf has weakened along with Romaine .  A  wide range of quality is available with issues arising from mildew, fringe burn and prominent rib and discoloration. Shopping for quality is a must especially as offerings from new  production areas start  as early as next week.

CELERY- Market has been stable with occasional volume  offerings.  Quality and sizing are nice, good strong stalks with good color.  Production will start increasing from Salinas as well as Santa Maria and eventually Oxnard  which will be offset by the declining production in Michigan.

ASPARAGUS– Production from Mexico is still light  and demand has stayed strong. Production from Peru has increased and has put downward pressure on the market. Quality is improving weekly and is comparable to imports from Peru.

GREEN ONION- Production continues to increase.  Markets have been reacting downward as supplies have outraced demand especially  on smaller sizes.    Supplies of ALL sizes  should continue to increase throughout the week and level off by next week. Quality has been inconsistent but should improve as supplies increase.

BRUSSELS SPROUTS-  Increased supplies are expected and demand is anticipated to lighten up by the end of the week.  Production should continue to increase , including some local production in the Northeast just underway . This  will put pressure on market which will likely ease before strengthening again by the end of the month for anticipated Holiday demand.

STRAWBERRIES-Salinas / Watsonville area continues to be  the  predominant loading area for volume  but Santa Maria amp; Oxnard have had better quality with their “New” Fall crop.  Production will start to transition south especially with last weekends extreme heat and forecast for possible rain showers on Wednesday  further weakening the  berries  in the North. Pricing has been wide ranging along with quality. Most shippers are discounting their Summer fruit for nearby markets. Shippers  are getting premium prices for strong fruit traveling East . Raspberry  prices are slightly higher for the best quality labels. Limited production  continues strong demand on Blackberries.

GRAPES- The market on Green and  Red grapes is stronger as most shippers  are transitioning into their late season varieties. Quality continues to be  excellent  due to the  ideal weather throughout the  Summer season in the  Central Valley.

Weather forecast for the California Coast (norms:62-64hi/40-45lo) calls for oscillating around normal with a few cool days each week before falling below normal for the second half of the month. Lightprecipitation expected mid next week but otherwise fairly dry. The desert and Central Mexico  (norms:72hi/40-44lo) are expected to be closer to normal for the next couple weeks before also dropping below normalfor the middle of the month. Central Florida after finally dipping below normal for a few days returns to warmer temperatures this week before moderating to near normal for the month of February. The only other area of concern will be New Orleans next Sunday but forecast inside is for 72 degrees with morning temperature a balmy 49’r degrees. 

Transportation continues to be steady with some midweek discounts. Plan ahead for best value and service.

****WARNING**** Extended below freezing temperatures have resulted in blister, peel and discoloration issues on most vegetable commodities along with occasional decay.  

CELERY- The celery market continues to see strength as good demand and reduced acreage combine to keep market active. Quality has been showing signs of frost damage of late and will continue to have varying degrees of issues depending on production location. Small sizes have become more prevalent due to colder weather and stripping of damaged outer stalks.  Limited quantities being grown in the desert continue to result in a wide ranging market due to the fact most celery is transferred to Yuma for consolidation. The best values will continue to come from Oxnard.

BROCCOLI- Quality along the coast continues to suffer effects of earlier rains, frost and again with more recent rain where pin rot and brown bead are prevalent. The quality in the desert and Mexico is better but far from perfect.  Some epidermal peeling on the stalk with occasional discoloration. Yuma even had some rain over the weekend which may contribute to future decline in quality. The market has eased only slightly off it’s peak especially in the desert.  You’ll continue to find deals on Mexican Crowns and discounts on Coastal broccoli but beware of wide ranging quality

LETTUCE- Quality will start to dictate market direction.  Cold weather causing blister and peel has given way to subtropical moisture which will further breakdown product in the field. Shippers will try to strip down most affected leaves but that will increase mechanical issues and create further discoloration and breakdown. If lettuce stops moving at retail due to quality rejections then the market will slide significantly otherwise it will continue to gradually ease down as temperature warm.

LEAF LETTUCE- Romaine continues to suffer the same effects as iceberg. Quality continues to suffer and with recent rains quality is sure to further decline.  The market looks to to active early this week but likely will start easing by the weekend on all colors and varieties.

ASPARAGUS- Market continues to hold as Peru’s volume has continued to drop and Mexico’s production has been delayed by previous cold weather. This time last year most shippers were packing 28#.  Most are still projecting better volume by next week but off their original forecast and with promotions in place the market should continue to be strong.

BRUSSELS SPROUT- Production from Mexico has been slow since the cold weather the last 3 weeks.  Supplies should slowly rebound over the next couple weeks and the market should stabilize. Quality has been good out of Mexico but some residual product from Northern California has been poor. Make sure you are aware of products origin.

GREEN ONIONS-  Production continues to be slowed by labor and weather . The market has been relatively steady. Anticipated increase in production was expected but a few shippers have expressed concern with lost acreage from earlier frost which will keep pressure on the market to remain active.

CARROTS- Carrot production has been steady.  The market is steady locally but an influx in bulk supplies from Mexico have deals on bulk packs. Good demand  through the heavy promotional period should help maintain pricing especially for the retail packs.

CITRUS- Navel production continues with good volume and improving flavor and sizing profiles. Recent freezes have had minimal impact on either quality or production.  Steady increase in production will translate to better values as the season progresses.

GRAPES- Limited shipments from Chile and Peru have kept the market strong especially the Red varietals. Most vessels are sold before they hit port on either coast. Shipments are expected to increase starting this week . Red globe and most Green varietals  quality has been good  with the best quality coming from Chile.

STRAWBERRIES- Production has peaked from Mexico and Florida . Southern Californian Coast production was starting to ramp up last week which contributed to an already saturated market. Prices were at a season low. Now with some rain interrupting supplies in California and production peaked in Florida and Texas combined with Valentines promotions  the market is poised to react.  Quality from Florida has been good but extended warm days have softened the fruit slightly. California was  improving daily  before this weekends rain temporary setback. Stems will be available but limited mainly out of California with sizing limiting Florida and Mexico from producing stems.  Raspberry production  has stalled with most production out West and the market is very active on limited supply. Blackberries primarily from Mexico continue offer a good value.

CAULIFLOWER- The market gradually eased as prices topped out but short supplies of all other veg items has kept the market relatively active. Further increase in volume is expected by the beginning of February look for the market to continue to ease downward. Quality has been mostly good with some epidermal peel on jacket.

After a brief warm spell early last week, weather in the West is forecast for near normal with temperatures in the low to mid 70’s  along the coast, mid 90’s to low 100’s in the Central Valley, and Low 100’s are expected in the Deserts with possible tropical moisture coming from the Mexico.  California Coast norms 72/52-54. The Inland Valley norms 92/62 and The Desert norms 103/68.

Transportation rates continue to be steady. Overall supply seems to be strong especially for singles. Increased regulations will continue to put pressure on drivers’ logs and likely delay even the fastest trucks moving forward. Teams will become in high demand.  Plan ahead for best value and service.

LETTUCE- Quality has slipped over the past week with ranging quality, shape and size. Mildew, Fringe burn and seeders along with smaller size have reduced the availability on 24’s. The overall market will react even with moderate demand.  With only a month left in the Coastal production area quality will not likely rebound until new growing areas in the Central Valley and the desert start. There will likely be deals on the smaller 30 size lettuce.

LEAF LETTUCE- Romaine production continues to be moderate with many ranging defects from fringe and tip burn along with mildew and seeders. Green and Red leaf supplies have increased but with a wide range in quality as well.

ASPARAGUS- Limited production continues from Coastal Mexico and Peru.  The market should continue to be strong with limited supplies.

CARROTS- Carrot production has been steady but with slightly smaller sizing.  Jumbos have been in short supply but have shown improvement this week.

BROCCOLI- Salinas and Santa Maria production continues with some increasing quality concerns.  Brown bead and hollow stem are the overriding issues which have led to a decrease in supplies. The crown market has been unusually active with strong demand from export and processors. Supplies may increase in coming weeks depending if quality improves otherwise look for continue pressure on the market.

CAULIFLOWER- Last week spike in production will lead to lighter supplies by the end of the week and into next as heavy first cuttings will leave less available for subsequent harvest.  The market bottomed out earlier this week and should rebound slightly especially the 9 count. Quality has been mostly good with some light cream coloring.

CELERY-   The market has improved as sizing and yields have declined.  Freight rates continue to prevent strong demand but Michigan production will start winding down and the market will strengthen.

BELL PEPPERS- Production in the California Central Valley and Coastal Valleys   continue to produce excellent quality.  The market has eased with Green especially smaller sizes. Red and Yellows have started with better volume and the market has eased slightly but still remains active with many local growing areas in the Midwest and East not at full production.

STRAWBERRIES- Production is starting to slow down after a strong summer season. Fall crop acreage is minimal from Santa Maria and Oxnard is still a few weeks away from seeing any additional volume. There is a wide range in quality with many berries being shipped close to market.  The market will continue to be strong for several more weeks. Quality on the new crop out of Santa Maria is showing improvement over the current summer plantings which are winding down.   Raspberries supplies have started to slow and the market has tightened as well.

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Active weather patterns have created unusual market conditions nationwide.  Storms in the east and tornadoes in the Midwest have slowed overall demand.  West coast weather has been volatile, with hot days followed by rain and wind.  Coastal temperatures in the 80s and 90s this week will be followed by a cooling trend with chance of rain next week.  These factors will surely affect quality industry wide.  Freight rates remain high with little sign of relief as diesel prices rise.  Crude oil prices are expected to remain near $100 per barrel throughout the summer.  This will have a noticeable effect on retail pricing throughout the country for the long term.

LETTUCE – Plenty of supply this week, quality is marginal due to recent rains.  Volume should tighten up next week as harvesting forecast show 30% less volume for the upcoming weeks.  Weights continue to be heavy, mostly in the 43-46 lb range.  Ribbing and discoloration are the common problems we are currently facing.  Quality is expected to improve as coastal temperatures cool into the weekend.

BROCCOLI – Fairly steady market, plenty of volume.  There will possibly be a production gap later next week which could tighten up supply.  Eastern crowns will be finishing up and demand will move west in the coming weeks.  Mexican crowns are showing quality issues including browning and decay. Be cautious with purchasing broccoli out of Texas unless you know exactly what you are getting.  West coast quality is better albeit pricier.

CAULIFLOWER – Still a very strong market here.  Supplies have improved this week and are expected to increase daily. Demand has slowed due to high markets and this market will continue to drop into next week, although volume could turn around at a moment’s notice. Plenty of quality issues to report mostly because shippers are putting as much as they can into the box to capitalize on the high markets.  Brown spotting, yellowing and decay are issues we are seeing daily.

LEAF – This market remains flat, plenty of volume and cheap pricing.  Shippers are looking to move, beware of old product.  The rain has not helped quality, pink ribbing and fringe burn are issues to watch out for.

CELERY – Currently plenty of volume on celery, and shippers are pricing to sell.  High freight rates have and will continue to hold this market back because of high delivered prices.  Some pith and seeder has been reported, but issues have not been extreme.  Seeder could become a larger factor in the weeks to come, as shippers will bypass product in the field and yields will be down.  This market could get slightly stronger as early as next week since Florida will be finishing up. More volume on larger product, fewer 36 sizes available.

BERRIES –

Strawberries – Tight market this week, the rain last week took its toll on volume.  Supplies are improving daily, but well below last weeks numbers.  Hot weather will affect quality and expect softer fruit on upcoming arrivals.  With Mother’s day business finishing up and cooler weather in forecast, quality and availability should improve.  Chance of rain next week could keep the market stronger than normal. Oxnard product is winding down, and more product will be coming out of Salinas and Santa Maria areas.

Raspberries –Mexico is winding down and most fruit will be coming out of Oxnard and Salinas areas.   Variable weather conditions will surely result in some quality issues over the next few days.   Overall quality is above average but there have been reports of soft fruit.

Blackberries – Steady supplies this week.  Mexico product is winding down, and most product will be coming out of California.  Quality is fair overall.

ASPARAGUS – California, Washington and Florida are the main areas.  Washington supply is expected to tighten up, California production is already tight.  Mostly smaller sizes available and quality is good.  Mexican product is still available, but is plagued with quality issues.

As we start winding down another season, business appears  to be steady with ample supplies of most produce items. But historically  demand starts to rise sharply at the end of October while supplies concentrate on the  West Coast. If growers budget enough volume  and Mother Nature  cooperates  markets  generally stabilize after an initial boost  but if weather turns  extreme or even moderately above or below normal  supplies can be  affected causing extreme jumps in the market and extending into the Holiday season. A few shippers are claiming minimally reduced acreage for the upcoming Winter season and the  Farmers Almanac is predicting wetter than normal West Coast and colder than normal East Coast  expect a  few turbulent markets ahead.

Weather continues to fluctuate around the country. All of California including the Coast is expected to have a hot offshore flow this week raising temps well above normal  before returning to normal for next week . Long term weather shows a significant drop in temperatures by the 26th of  October through the first few days of November. Coming off a cold weekend around the rest of the country , temps return to normal (although “norms” are dropping a couple degrees per day) until significant cooling returns  November 1st.

Truck availability remains good but rates are stubbornly holding steady. There continues to be  heavy solicitation for business which will keep pressure on rates  to go lower eventually. As always  advance notice will give you the advantage of best rates.

LETTUCE-  Transition to the Central Valley will start this week with some  lettuce shippers having supplies  in both regions .There are a few shippers  who do not have a Central Valley operation and choose to stretch their Salinas Valley and Yuma districts. Early reports  from Huron show irregular size and some  quality issues due to overspray and/or tomato virus. Neither is  uncommon for the initial Central Valley lettuce crop. Best quality for this week will be  from  Salinas  but with warm weather expected throughout the week conditions  could change rapidly. The  market has gradually firmed up as shippers  are apprehensive about their transitional supplies. With a wide range in quality from both districts  loading fresh lettuce is top priority.   

BROCCOLI- After cool weather last week supplies have lightened and most shippers  are firming prices especially on crowns .  Warm weather should help promote growth and the market should stabilize by the end of the week. Occasional volume  deals  are still available on bunch.  Quality is  mostly very good  with occasional pin rot. Central Valley production should start next week which will also help contain pricing.  

CAULIFLOWER- Much like broccoli last weeks  cooler weather should help  slow production temporarily but inventories are high and warmer weather will put further pressure on the  market to remain weak. Volume deals are currently available. Quality remains good.  If enough “Hot” Deals are struck the  market may have a chance to rebound next week as  there are no new districts to support  and local homegrown production is nearing an end.

LEAF ITEMS- Romaine  and  Romaine Hearts continue to  be  weak with lower pricing. Demand on green and  redleaf  is also flat. Wide range in quality . Similar to lettuce but to a lesser extent, a few shippers will  transition their mix lettuce program to the  Central  Valley by next week.  Similar wide ranging quality issues exist in the Romaine as in Iceberg lettuce. Homegrown supplies  are getting weaker by the  day so increased demand is  expected soon than later . 

CELERY- Market continues to be stable with occasional volume offerings .Michigan  is winding down production which will be  offset by start up production in Oxnard.  Many wholesalers amp; retailers have already contracted their Holiday volume which will help shippers firm their pricing in a couple weeks.

ASPARAGUS– Production from Mexico continues to be limited and demand has stayed strong. Quality continues to improve weekly. Supplies look to be on track for Holiday promotions.

GREEN ONION- Production has leveled off  and demand continues to be weak especially on small size Green Onions. Pricing on medium and large sizes are slightly higher.

BRUSSELS SPROUTS-  Increased supplies and lighter demand has  prices headed lower. Although similar to Celery, demand for November promotions will likely prop the market back up  by early November. Take advantage of good values  while supplies last.

STRAWBERRIES- Production and quality continue to wind down  in  Salinas / Watsonville and picking up in Oxnard  and eventually Mexico via McAllen. With the newer districts increased supplies of QUALITY fruit the top end market should stabilize. There continues to be discounts  for West Coast quality fruit . Raspberry prices are slightly higher for the best quality labels. Limited production  continues with strong demand on Blackberries. New districts will also help supplies on Raspberry and  Blackberries.

GRAPES- The market on Green and  Red grapes is stronger as most shippers continue transitioning into their late season varieties. Quality continues to be excellent  due to the  ideal weather throughout the  Summer season in the  Central Valley.