Weather forecast for the California Coast (norms:64/42-46) calls for Fridayshowers and below normal continuing into next week and falling well below normal for much of the month especially the lows. The desert and CentralMexico (norms:74/40-46lo) are expected to be dry but cool this weekend and continuing to be well below nor
mal through the end of the month especially the lows with potential frost warnings for the next 2 weeks. Central Florida forecast slightly above normal (norm:74/52lo) for the forecast window. The Northeast is expected to get hit with ablizzard this weekend before returning to normal but still cold for the balance of the month.
****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. 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.
STRAWBERRIES- Production has peaked from Mexico and Florida . Southern Californian Coast production was starting to ramp up for Valentine Day commitments but recent showers may interrupt harvest for a few critical days. Hoping for dry weather next week but likely still below normal temps will keep production in check and market active. Stems continue to be very limited.
LEAF LETTUCE- Quality continues to suffer from Blister, peel, discoloration and occasional decay. Some shippers are still quoting acceptance final on Romaine. The market has adjusted on the colors but Romaine products continue to be very tight. With further frost potential in the forecast continued quality issue will persist through the remainder of the desert deal and likely to extend into the Spring
CITRUS- Navel production continues with good volume and improving flavor and sizing profiles. Recent freezes have had minimal impact on either quality or production only to increase choice offerings. Steady increase in production will translate to better values as the season progresses.
CAULIFLOWER- The market appears to have bottomed out. Cooler weather forecast will slow production next week and the market will likely advance. Quality has been mostly good . Take advantage of any deals available early next week
BROCCOLI- Quality along the coast is improving while quality in the desert and Mexico continue to be ok- good. With the improved but still fair quality comes an increase in supply. The market looks to be bottoming out next week as additional production from California Central Valley will start back up. Cooler weather may have an effect on pricing but too many production areas will keep a lid on overall market Wide ranging quality will make it necessary to watch quality depending on loading location.
LETTUCE- Production has increased but Quality will continue to be the overriding concern for the next 3 plus weeks. Shippers will try to strip down most affected leaves but that will increase mechanical issues and create further discoloration and breakdown. Lettuce demand has dropped with quality and East coast weather slowing sales. Cooler weather may slow production enough to have market rebound by the end of next week.
ASPARAGUS- Production from Mexico is finally starting to increase although Peru’s volume has continued to drop. There are a significant amount of ad promotions that will stabilize the market in the short term but look for increased volume and lower pricing after Valentines Day. 28 pound packs will also become available unless the forecast of cooler weather extends into production areas in Central Mexico. An early Easter Holiday will get retailers to promote heavily so get in on advanced deals while available.
GRAPES- Limited shipments from Chile and Peru have kept the market strong especially the Red varietals. Shipments are increasing this week with better sizing especially the Reds . Red globe and most Green varietals with the best quality continues to come from Chile
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