The desert growing areas are finishing up, and the new areas of Huron and Salinas are now in full production. Product in Huron is looking nice; a welcomed change of pace after a difficult winter. As we begin loading up north, we are already in the midst of existing problems in our industry including high fuel costs, resulting in high food prices across the country.

Even though there are plenty of trucks available for all areas of the U.S., rates are jumping by 4 or 5 hundred dollars this week.  Also, as mentioned, it is important to give your trucks an extra day to load.

Long range weather show a mostly clear week, only light showers towards the end of the week , temperatures are in the mid to upper 60s in Salinas growing areas.  Oxnard is expecting warm days, but rain is forecasted this weekend.

LETTUCE– Huron product is lighter weight, smaller, showing a few internal problems, but good quality overall.  This is looking to be a better year for Huron product than past few years.  The market remains fairly flat as supply picks up and should remain so for the time being.

BROCCOLI– Tight supplies, however market is not moving.  Salinas, Santa Maria, and San Joaquin Valley are picking up supply daily.  The desert is finished for the season, with only bits and pieces remaining.

CAULIFLOWER– Quality is good, similar to broccoli.  Supplies have now moved to the northern districts. The market is strong for 9s and 12s, but flattening out as more and more shippers begin operating.

LEAF ITEMS– Good supply and quality. Good deals in most areas. Product is looking better than weeks past. Huron is now in full production , as is Santa Maria. Salinas is in early stages but should begin normal production later this week.

CELERY– Very good quality reports today. Supplies are increasing. So far problems have been minimal.  The market should remain fairly consistent for the rest of the week with a 1 – 2 dollar spread between shippers.  Product had bounced back from the rain last week and is almost back to normal growing and harvesting schedules.

ASPARAGUS–as the desert continues to warm up, and product has begun to slowly shift up north.  Currently supply is ok and quality is good.  Lodi/Stockton and Salinas areas are starting to. As Easter business picks up, supply could diminish and we are hoping the weather does not wreak havoc on production.

STRAWBERRIES–Supplies are increasing and should be improving throughout the week. Rain is forecasted in Oxnard on Friday which could cause problems in the days ahead.

Ed Brem

ed@producewest.com