Fall is officially here this week but no change in weather is predicted for the Western U.S. As fruit production starts to slow , veg production should start increasing slightly. Weather will start to have impact on the local homegrown products but other than an occasional frost warning the recent weather around the country has been ideal for local crops.
Long range weather shows West Coast near normal this week with highs in the mid 60′s to mid 70′s with night time temps in the low 50’s. Possible warming trend predicted for the first week of October. Inland Valley’s are predicted to be near normal. The desert has had increased humidity but should remain near normal temps for the balance of the month. The rest of the country is averaging near normal temperatures and precipitation. The Northeast could see low temps in the 30’s by the end of the month.
Truck availability remains good. Most Independents and transportation brokers continue to solicit business which will eventually turn into better rates although high fuel costs have kept current rates steady. Advance notice will help in getting best value available.
LETTUCE- Production continues to be steady with good demand. Local production continues to be limited. Most shippers have been slowly raising prices and should peak early this week. Currently quality is good in Salinas with occasional mildew and fringe burn but seasonal discoloration issues (russett amp; pink rib) are lurking. This will have some impact on supplies but mostly on arrivals . Weights have ranged throughout the 40’s. This time of year it’s best to have lower weights to help avoid bruising issues on arrival. Shopping for quality will become mandatory as we head into fall.
BROCCOLI- Demand for export and value added along with slightly lower production in Santa Maria helped create strong demand for broccoli. The market ended last week very active but supplies should improve this week and values will be available by mid week. . Quality continues to be excellent.
CAULIFLOWER- Production is steady to slightly heavier than last week. The overall market tone is good currently but anticipating slightly lower pricing throughout the week Quality is mostly good with occasional mildew jacket.
LEAF ITEMS- Romaine and Romaine Heart markets have peaked and lower pricing is expected this week although there is a WIDE range in quality . Common defects include fringe burn, twist and/ or mildew. Demand on green and red leaf has weakened along with Romaine . Shopping for quality is a must.
CELERY-The market continues has been strong. Fair quality from Michigan continues to put increased demand pressure on Salinas and Santa Maria. Quality and sizing are nice, good strong stalks with good color. Production will continue to be on the light side until fall although there has been the occasional volume deal available mainly originating from Santa Maria.
ASPARAGUS– Production from Mexico has leveled this week and demand has stayed steady as the overall market should also be steady. Quality is improving weekly and is comparable to imports from Peru.
GREEN ONION- Market has been active due to a reduction in summer acreage along with damage done from earlier heat. Market has also been impacted with recent rains and the observance of Mexican Independence Holiday delaying harvesting and logistics. Supplies should increase by next week which will eventually lead to lower pricing as we head into Fall.
STRAWBERRIES- Production from Watsonville/Salinas areas continues to decline slightly. Demand is very good for top quality but most , if not all, fruit will have issues upon arrival . Continue to expect 20-25% bruising related issues on arrival. Cooler night should help firm fruit but the plants are starting to look tired and most shippers are hesitant to go east with their fruit . Santa Maria shippers have started to harvest their new fall crop of berries and Oxnard will start in a couple weeks. Raspberry production from Salinas is lighter and prices are slightly higher for the best quality labels. Limited production of Blackberries continues to be shipped almost exclusively to the West Coast. Driscoll will continue to be the preferred berry for the next month as F.O.B.’s are already reflecting a wide pricing range.
Produce West
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