Balmy desert weather boosts vegetable yields

Growers in the Arizona-California desert growing region are experiencing ideal weather conditions with highs in the 80s this week, which is increasing growth and volumes.

In an alert to buyers this week, Markon Cooperative BB #:123315 said that while the weather has been excellent this week, temperatures should cool down to the mid-60s to low 70s with shorter days and cooler nights next week.

In the meantime, green leaf, iceberg, and romaine lettuce prices continue to drop because of abundant supply and weak demand.

“Growers are now moving into winter varieties which have been developed to have favorable quality and availability during the colder months,” Markon said.

Here are the details on major commodities:

Lettuce
Markon First Crop Premium Iceberg availability is inconsistent due to low weights; Markon Best Available is being substituted as needed. MFC Premium Green Leaf and Romaine are readily available.
Arizona and California desert production is in full swing; ideal weather conditions are promoting growth.
Lettuce and leaf quality is very good: growth cracking, mildew pressure, fringe burn, and seeder are present in some lots.
Demand is moderate following Thanksgiving
Markets are expected to continue declining until demand ramps up early to mid- December for the holidays.

Broccoli
Markon First Crop (MFC) Broccoli is available. Expect prices to decline over the next 7 to 10 days as yields increase in the Arizona and California desert regions. Overall quality is good: pin rot is affecting some lots.
Demand is moderate. Markets are expected to remain at mid-levels over the next 7 to 10 days

Mexican Broccoli (into South Texas)
Supplies will increase over the next 7 to 10 days due to ideal growing weather. Demand is moderate
South Texas broccoli is expected to be $7-8 cheaper than the stocks from the West Coast.

Cauliflower
Markon Essentials Cauliflower is available. Recent warm weather in the Arizona and California desert regions has increased yields. Expect good quality with great color and ideal size.
Markets are forecast to decline for the next 7 to 10 days.

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