Summer officially begins June 22, and we are certainly glad to see it come, after the cold, rainy weather we have had out West in California. Below normal temperatures, above normal rainfall had slowed down growth and production on tree fruit, berries, grapes, and just about wiped out the Bing cherry crop. So, we are happy that things are starting to get back to normal!

Long range weather shows that we are in a mini heat spell, with temperatures on in the Salinas area hitting a whopping 80-85 degrees, but the San Joaquin Valley peaking out at 103. These temperatures, after the record-setting cold spells we have had, are like a slap in face. But, this will only last a few days, then back to normal.

Trucks are a bit more abundant this week, but rates still in the $9K range to the east coast.

LETTUCE–quality definitely improving every day, with better size, weights, and condition. The market is floundering around, with the high freight rates keeping shippers from even attempting to raise their prices. For instance, freight for a box of lettuce to, say, New York is pushing $9.50-10/box, which is what the FOB market currently is.

BROCCOLI–quite a range in price here, especially on crowns, where there is a $3-4.00/box spread between areas and labels. Overall, the market is slipping a bit from where it was last week. Quality is VERY nice.

CAULIFLOWER–a good spread here, too. 12s ranging from $10.00 to as high as $16.00!! This is certainly an item to shop around for. Supplies coming out of either Salinas/Watsonville or Santa Maria.

LEAF ITEMS–red, green, romaine are all still on the floor, price wise. As mentioned, freight is what is keeping these markets from doing anything, with freight for a box of romaine nearly DOUBLE what the FOB is!  Quality very nice for ALL leaf items out of the Salinas area.

CELERY–wide range in price here, too. Dole, for instance, is $5-6.00/box HIGHER than the general market for the smaller size 36s and 48s. Oxnard has to be totally done by the end of this month, so there are deals out there.

STRAWBERRIES–looks like the warm weather we are into will finally bring some fruit on. And believe us when we tell you. The fruit is OUT THERE! Driscoll still slightly pro rating, but even THEY will be looking to push.

Ed Brem

ed@producewest.com