We at Produce West want to wish you ALL a very MERRY CHRISTMAS! Let us all take time to remember the REASON FOR THE SEASON.

The week before Christmas is usually quiet on production side, most of the product is arriving in the stores and the holiday shopping ensues.  After past weeks freeze problems, we are still seeing signs of the damage 5 straight days of freeze can do.  Signs of blister peel and feathering are still prevalent.  The harvesters are doing what they can to control the damage, and some are doing a better job than others.

The good news is the desert weather is warming up into the 60s during the day and 40s and 50s at night.  Although this warming trend is welcome, temperatures are still too low for comfort, especially in micro-climate areas of Yuma and Dome Valleys.

Truck rates are similar to last week, although we are seeing more truckers looking for loads this week, truck availability should tighten up by week’s end as truckers stay close to home for Christmas.

LETTUCE — the dust is beginning to settle and product is slowly recovering after an eventful 2 weeks of freeze damage and rains.  Outside leaves are less damaged, fewer leaves need to be shed, resulting in better head weights industry wide, and ALL shippers are quoting “with epidermal peel and blister”, with some even saying they don’t want to hear about it when it arrives. We are staying clear of those shippers.  The market has come off slightly, coolers are filling up and shippers are looking to move product.  Temperatures will be in the 70s by next week so we expect some nicer product.

BROCCOLI — Market on crowns has been holding steady in the mid $20 range for over a week now, although we are sensing weaker times ahead, in fact, we could see a $5 decrease by weeks end.  Shippers know this is coming; as product coming out of Georgia and Carolinas are considerably less expensive and west coast product will need to compete with them as supply grows.

CAULIFLOWER — only market that seems to be holding strong, although with higher retails, this market is definitely headed for a big fall.  Supply has not been adequate and cold weather really stunted cauliflower growth.  It will take a longer time to recover as weather warms up.  Quality is fine, although there is some discoloration from the freeze and rains.

LEAF ITEMS — Even though temperatures have warmed up, we will be seeing signs of freeze damage for weeks to come.  Epidermal peel, blister, feathering are all going to be commonplace in the weeks ahead.  Market prices are holding steady, good supplies on all leaf items and romaine.

CELERY — Late last week saw a slight uptick in the market.  Celery is generally a popular item during Christmas time.   Market should come off a few dollars by later this week.  Nice weather for the next 10 days will bring on plenty product. Most celery coming out of Oxnard, with shippers transferring to Yuma for ease of loading. Usually $1-2.00/box up charge for the transfer.

Ed Brem

www.producewest.com